Remembering Harvey Glatt: The Visionary Who Shaped Ottawa's Music Soul

Ottawa, and indeed Canada, is mourning the loss of a true titan, Harvey Glatt, who passed away peacefully at the age of 91. A visionary, an impresario, and a cultural architect, Glatt's unwavering passion for music didn't just create businesses; it built institutions that shaped the very soul of the nation's artistic landscape.

He was more than a businessman; he was a conduit for culture, a man who consistently brought the world's most electrifying talents to Canadian stages and airwaves.

His journey began in 1956 with a simple yet revolutionary idea: Treble Clef, Ottawa's first dedicated record store. In an era before digital downloads, this was a sanctuary for music lovers, a place where Glatt curated sounds and introduced generations to new artists.

Treble Clef wasn't just a store; it was the genesis of a burgeoning empire, quickly expanding across the region and becoming a household name synonymous with quality music.

But Glatt's impact truly soared with the co-founding of Le Hibou in the 1960s. This unassuming coffee house became a legendary crucible of folk, blues, and rock.

Imagine the intimate atmosphere, the raw talent, as iconic figures like Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and even Jimi Hendrix graced its modest stage. Le Hibou wasn't just a venue; it was a cultural beacon, a place where legends were born and unforgettable musical moments etched into history, largely thanks to Glatt's discerning ear and audacious spirit.

His entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there.

In 1977, Glatt launched CHEZ-FM, a radio station that would become an Ottawa institution. Breaking away from conventional programming, CHEZ-FM quickly cemented its reputation as a champion of rock music, often playing tracks before they hit mainstream popularity. It was a station built by music lovers, for music lovers, reflecting Glatt's deep understanding of what resonated with audiences.

Beyond his groundbreaking establishments, Glatt was a prolific concert promoter, the man responsible for bringing some of the biggest names in music to Ottawa.

From The Rolling Stones to countless others, he ensured that Canadians had access to the global music scene, transforming local arenas into electric temples of sound.

Harvey Glatt’s legacy is not just in the businesses he created, but in the countless lives he touched and the cultural fabric he meticulously wove.

He was a mentor to many, a friend to artists, and a true believer in the power of music to unite and inspire. His commitment to Canadian talent was unwavering, always seeking to elevate homegrown artists alongside international stars.

His contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2013, he was rightly appointed to the Order of Canada, a testament to his profound influence on the nation's cultural identity.

As we remember Harvey Glatt, we celebrate not just a pioneer, but a passionate visionary whose love for music truly transformed Ottawa and echoed across Canada, leaving an enduring melody for generations to come. He may be gone, but his harmony will resonate forever.