Yes, I took down the “QODs” … it didn’t feel right to have them here. I know we all keep going, and I certainly don’t feel the loss as much as those who were close to Bill, but I prefer to keep today’s blog a remembrance page. It just feels like the proper thing to do.
Used with permission of San Francisco Symphony
Photo used with permission from San Francisco Symphony
I just read of oboist Bill Bennett’s passing. I am away from home and will post more later.
Heart breaking news.
Update
And now I am home. Needless to say the second half of my walk wasn’t full of joy.
I didn’t know Bill, really. We met twice. We communicated several times via email. I certainly knew of him, and I was pretty sure he was not only a fine musician but, from his cartoons and that twinkle in his eye, a very joyful kind of guy much of the time. I can’t imagine the loss his family, friends, colleagues and students are feeling right now. My heart goes out to them all.
The San Francisco Symphony is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Principal Oboist William Bennett. Mr. Bennett, 56, had been hospitalized since Saturday, February 23, 2013, after suffering a brain hemorrhage during his performance of the Strauss Oboe Concerto with the San Francisco Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall.
“I am heartbroken by the tragic death of Bill Bennett, which has left a terrible, sad emptiness in the hearts of the whole San Francisco Symphony family,” said Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas. “Bill was a great artist, an original thinker, and a wonderful man. He was very generous with his attention and affection for his friends, colleagues, students, and audience members. We all experienced his sunny enthusiasm for music and life. I am saddened to have lost such a true friend.”
SF Symphony Executive Director Brent Assink added: “How fortunate we all were that Bill Bennett was our Principal Oboe. His artistry transported us. He touched audiences around the world with his music and the warmth of his personality. We are all stunned at his sudden passing. His legacy will continue to be felt through his countless students and in the performances of the San Francisco Symphony for many years to come. While all of us here, the musicians, board and staff of the San Francisco Symphony, grieve with the entire Bay Area community, we also extend our love and support to Bill’s family. “
Bennett was born in 1956 in New Haven, Connecticut. He joined the San Francisco Symphony in 1979 and became Principal Oboist in 1987. During his many years as a mainstay of the Orchestra, he attracted the esteem and admiration not just of colleagues, but of listeners.The entire San Francisco Symphony family offers their deep condolences to the Bennett family. The San Francisco Symphony is accepting condolences on behalf of the Bennett family at 201 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102. Messages can be posted at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/williambennett1.
Found here.
