Lenore Wilkinson, JME co-founder, dies suddenly

The Cincinnati-area music community was saddened to learn of the death of Lenore Wilkinson, who died unexpectedly in her sleep on July 16, 2006. She was 57 years old. Ms. Wilkinson died from a coronary embolism (blood clot).

Lenore co-founded Junior Music Experience in 1982 with Linda Henn Bergholz.

Lenore was known for her intellect, her generosity, her optimism and her teaching skills. But she will be remembered most for her ability to make friends with nearly everyone who ever met her. Lenore was a piano teacher for many years; most of her more than 40 students considered her to be their personal friend.

In 1997, Ms. Wilkinson, Amy Immerman and Paul McCready established Cincinnati Music Academy. Located in the Kenwood area of Cincinnati, the Academy has grown to include more than 30 teachers providing lessons to nearly 700 students. Lenore’s husband, Wayne, also teaches at CMA and has become a co-owner of the Academy.

A native of North Dakota, Lenore met Wayne Wilkinson in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he was conducting a training program for Baldwin Piano and Organ Company. Lenore was one of his students. “In the 28 years we were married, she taught me far more than I ever taught her,” Wayne said. “She was the best friend I ever had. I miss her most dearly.”

So will many others. God rest you, Lenore.

JME has established a memorial fund in Lenore’s honor. For information, please call Linda Bergholz at (513) 683-1766.

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