Dr. Nelita True Laires

My piano teach in high school introduced me to her dear friend Dr. True and she was amazingly warm and kind. I remember auditioning at the Eastman school and what a wonderful experience.

I admired Nelita ever since I first heard her present. She was such an energetic and inspiring teacher and a fine artist. The field of piano pedagogy was certainly blessed by her gifts many times over. I am deeply saddened to learn of her death, and send my condolences to her loved ones.

So very sorry to hear this news! Thinking of her family and her many many friends colleagues and students who are so saddened at this loss.
She was a wonderful friend and colleague of my father John T O’Brien. They did workshops together many times usually at Columbus college in Columbus Georgia where she was frequently the guest artist for my father’s summer piano pedagogy workshops. I was honored to know her and to work with her several times.

There’s not much to say that has not already been said about what an amazing person, Pianist, teacher, and colleague Nelita was. She was truly the a pitta me of a lady and her memory will live on in all who had met her and who’s mentorship and/ or friendship we all treasure.
Her down to earth personality into caring of people is what truly lives on with Nelita. Both she and Fernando were greatly loved and a wonderful example of two amazing pianists and teachers who could live together,...

Nelita, Dr True, was and is my inspiration. During my studies with her, I admired her musicianship, strength, intellect and above all humour, and she continued to be a major source of support for me throughout my career. I will miss her presence in my life and will always honour her memory in my own teaching and playing.

Nelita was an inspiration to all those who had an interaction with her. She was a natural 'connector,' and enthusiastic and appreciative 'consumer' of life, and a life-long learner. What she has meant to so many of us is the enduring legacy, her gift to us.

Nelita was Nelita and she did a fine job of it. She was loved by all and she loved back. Over the years, I was a recipient of some of those responses to letters, etc. that are mentioned in the obituary. They are among my most prized possessions. I will miss you so, dear friend.

Nelita was a great light in the piano world and a great light in my life. Her master classes were truly masterful. It was always a high point for me to see her at the MTNA convention every year. We have all been lucky to have known her.