Mitchell Lurie was one of the premier clarinetists of the 20th century. His career is outlined in his obituaries in the Los Angeles Times and the Guardian. I took clarinet lessons from him long ago, and he played a pivotal role in my life. He suggested that I should apply to the Curtis Institute of Music, but then when I said that I was undecided between science and music, he advised me to go into science and play music on the side. So I followed his advice. He was demanding, while being so encouraging and inspirational as a teacher. He made you feel that you could play anything. Mitchell was honored at the ICA Clarinet Fest in Atlanta in 2006, but could not attend because of ill health. Afterwards I delayed calling him, and now it is too late. So I am writing this in memory. Rest in peace, Mitchell.
Jan
http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-lurie30-2008nov30,0,263373.story?page=1
http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2009/feb/10/obituary-mitchell-lurie
http://www.clarinet.org/pdfs/fests/2006/CFest_2006_Detailed_Schedule.pdf
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