Thank you to everyone who attended Dr. Gary Iida's memorial service in Claremont on November 23. It was heartwarming to see how much Dr. Iida was loved, not just by our orchestra members, but by former students, colleagues, and friends. Dr. Iida's family has asked that in lieu of flowers a memorial recognition be sent to the Gary Iida Memorial CYSO Scholarship Fund. Make checks payable to Claremont Symphony Orchestra, and include "Gary Iida" in the memo section. Checks may be sent to:
Claremont Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 698
Claremont, CA 91711
Donations will be recognized in CSO programs beginning in March 2014.
Claremont Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 698
Claremont, CA 91711
Donations will be recognized in CSO programs beginning in March 2014.
In Memoriam - Retired Associate Conductor Dr. Gary Iida (1942-2013)
Dr. Iida joined the CSO in 1975 and never left. He was a trumpeter, percussionist, conductor, Concert for Young People maestro, witty colleague, fine musician, and -- his favorite role -- Elvis impersonator. His courage facing his debilitating illness (Parkinson's) for almost two decades inspired all who encountered him. He was especially effective as a role model when he conducted from his wheelchair, especially at his favorite concerts -- the ones for children. For a number of years Dr. Iida had been coming to CSO concerts in his wheelchair or with his walker to help hand out programs in the lobby. This he did just last month at our Oct. 20 concert. Dr. Iida was a beloved member of the CSO family and will be greatly missed.
Dr. Iida joined the CSO in 1975 and never left. He was a trumpeter, percussionist, conductor, Concert for Young People maestro, witty colleague, fine musician, and -- his favorite role -- Elvis impersonator. His courage facing his debilitating illness (Parkinson's) for almost two decades inspired all who encountered him. He was especially effective as a role model when he conducted from his wheelchair, especially at his favorite concerts -- the ones for children. For a number of years Dr. Iida had been coming to CSO concerts in his wheelchair or with his walker to help hand out programs in the lobby. This he did just last month at our Oct. 20 concert. Dr. Iida was a beloved member of the CSO family and will be greatly missed.
The Claremont Symphony Orchestra is an all-volunteer community orchestra based in Claremont, California. Music Director Robert Sage leads the CSO in its 61st season providing FREE classical music concerts to Claremont and its neighboring communities.
The Claremont Youth Symphony Orchestra is sponsored by the Claremont Symphony Orchestra Association. This year the CYSO celebrates its 31st season providing young people an opportunity to hone their performance skills in an orchestral setting. To learn more about the CYSO, please visit our CYSO web page.
The Claremont Youth Symphony Orchestra is sponsored by the Claremont Symphony Orchestra Association. This year the CYSO celebrates its 31st season providing young people an opportunity to hone their performance skills in an orchestral setting. To learn more about the CYSO, please visit our CYSO web page.
