Lynn Harrell: In Remembrance

My heart fills with gratitude thinking about Lynn.  He was an inspiring mentor, teacher, colleague and friend.  Lynn’s soul was his sound, speaking directly to everyone who heard him.  

I remember hearing it live for the first time.  We met while recording ‘A Musical Encounter,’ the Emmy-nominated television show produced by Sylvia Kunin.  I was honored to appear with fellow Crossroads classmates Elena Hirsu (violin) and Atsushi Sakai (cello).  Mr. Lynn Harrell was the VIP MC.  He introduced our performances, then interviewed us with insight and humor.  He also spoke to the live audience of children with kindness and enthusiasm.  The resonating voice of his cello stunned us all.  

Through the years we became colleagues and friends.  I’m honored to have learned from him and always felt great warmth.  It was great fun joining as Sancho Panza to his Don Quixote.  Lynn’s charmed musicianship and vision of the world are sorely missed.