In Memoriam: Steven Witser, Cleveland Orchestra trombonist and Cleveland Heights resident

Cleveland Orchestra Trombonist Steve Witser.

The Cleveland Orchestra notes with sadness the death of former Orchestra member Steven Witser, who died last week from a heart attack at his home in Pasadena. He was 48 years old. 

A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, Witser was appointed to The Cleveland Orchestra in 1989 by Christoph von Dohnányi. He served as Assistant Principal Trombone (1989-2007), Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager (1994-2007), and Acting Principal Trombone (2003-04 and 2005-07). He was also active in the Blossom Festival Band and Orchestra. While in Cleveland, Steve was a member of the faculty at the Cleveland Institute of Music. He performed in the Center City Brass Quintet, High Anxiety Bones, and Myriad. A California native, he became principal trombone of the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2007. 

Steve once said, “Music is something I would pursue, even if it were not my vocation. To be able to work at something I love, especially with The Cleveland Orchestra, is a gift.”

Please join friends and family of Steve Witser in a celebration of his life at a memorial service and concert at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 6, at the Church of the Saviour, 2537 Lee Road, in Cleveland Heights. Reception to follow in the Great Hall. For more information, call 216-231-7387.

 
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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 4:10 PM, 06.04.2009