Toronto Guitar Teacher Hosts Third Annual Cancer Research Fundraiser at Massey Hall
David Glabais honors his late brother while raising funds for cancer treatment research.
1Annual Charity Concert Returns
Toronto guitar instructor David Glabais is hosting his third annual Unbreakable concert at Massey Hall on November 15, 2026. The event serves as a major fundraiser for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Glabais, who has taught guitar for over 35 years, continues his mission to support vital cancer research through music.
2Personal Battle With Cancer
This year's concert carries deep personal significance as Glabais celebrates his 65th birthday while recovering from his own throat cancer diagnosis. He underwent 35 rounds of radiation and five rounds of chemotherapy between December 2023 and February 2024. His resilience fuels his determination to continue the annual tradition at Massey Hall.
3Honoring A Family Legacy
The concert is dedicated to the memory of Glabais's brother, Brian, who passed away from stage 4 pancreatic cancer in April 2024. Brian received a terminal diagnosis with a six-month prognosis but survived for eight months. The event highlights the urgent need for better detection methods for this highly aggressive disease.
4Fundraising Milestones And Impact
To date, the Unbreakable concert series has successfully raised $200,000 for cancer research initiatives. Supporters can contribute directly through the official website, unbreakableconcert.com. These funds are directed toward the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, which focuses on advancing treatment options and improving survival outcomes for patients facing various forms of cancer.
5Musical Community And Students
The concert features performances by Glabais alongside his students, who range in age from 13 to 61. Notable guests, including Sloan’s Chris Murphy and host Lisa LaFlamme, will join the stage. This collaborative effort provides students with the unique opportunity to perform at the historic Massey Hall venue while supporting a cause.
6High Profile Student Connections
Glabais has taught several high-profile individuals, including former Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse and his son, Noah. Nurse famously performed on guitar with the band Arkells following the Raptors' NBA championship win. These connections underscore the teacher's long-standing influence within the Toronto community and his ability to engage diverse students.
7Challenges Of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest forms of the disease due to difficulties in early detection. Statistics indicate that stage 4 survival rates are often below 3 percent. By sharing his brother's story, Glabais emphasizes the critical importance of funding research to improve diagnostic tools and extend patient life expectancy.
8Future Of The Initiative
What began as small local student recitals has evolved into a significant annual production at Massey Hall. Glabais remains committed to the project, viewing the concert as a testament to strength and determination. The event continues to grow, serving as both a tribute to survivors and a platform for ongoing medical research.