09/20/2025
Brenda L. Harsch-Menjivar, 68, of Ambridge, passed away on September 18, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.
Brenda is survived by her daughters, Veronica and Bethany Menjivar; her mother, Barbara Harsch; her brothers, David and Bob Harsch; her sisters-in-law, Tammy and Tracey Harsch; and her beloved nieces and nephews, including Erica, Katie, Maria, Nathan, Valeriya, Aaron, Devin, Jessica, and Tyler.
Brenda’s love for music began at an early age, taking piano lessons and performing in various school musicals. Her musical journey flourished through high school, where she sang, played guitar, and honed her performance skills. After graduating from Ambridge Area High School in 1975, she pursued her passion at Penn State University’s School of Music, where she earned her degree in 1979. Brenda excelled in piano, organ, and voice, earning multiple scholarships, studying with renowned teachers, and becoming a finalist in the Metropolitan Opera Regional Competition at just 21 years old.
In her twenties, Brenda performed with the Asolo Opera and the Sarasota Opera Company before moving to New York City. There, she studied under the guidance of Maestro Victor DeRenzi and transitioned into a dramatic soprano. She sang for various congregations, competed in vocal competitions, and performed alongside members of the Metropolitan Opera and the Hershey Symphony. Throughout this time, Brenda also built a successful career as an administrative assistant at a Fortune 500 company, balancing her professional life with her love for music and her growing family.
Brenda’s personal life blossomed in New York, where she became the proud mother of two daughters, Veronica and Bethany Menjivar. In addition to her family life, she continued her musical endeavors, singing with symphonies including the Harrisburg Orchestra and contributing her voice to a wide range of performances.
Eventually, Brenda returned home to Ambridge, where she devoted herself to teaching and mentoring the next generation of musicians. She opened her studio, Brenda’s Notes, where she shared her passion for music with countless students. For decades, she also directed high school music programs, creating beloved community performances such as Showstoppers. Brenda was widely recognized for her powerful voice, infectious laugh, and generous spirit.
She furthered her impact as a music director for both Ambridge and Freedom High School, where her guidance left a lasting legacy on their music programs. Brenda also played a key role in numerous summer music workshops and served as a director for the Geneva College summer camp, continuing her mission to inspire young musicians.
Brenda’s vocal talents were extraordinary—whether singing show tunes, operatic arias, or Italian classics, she could master any genre. Her musical gifts were a reflection of her dedication and selflessness, as she spent her life sharing her voice with the world. Her influence as a teacher, performer, and mentor will continue to resonate for generations to come.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC. 547 8th Street, Ambridge. Burial will be private. A memorial concert will be held in Brenda’s honor, and a scholarship fund will be established in her name. Details will be shared in the near future. Brenda’s voice touched many hearts, her laughter will echo in our memories, and her musical legacy will live on forever.
