Remembrances
Below are remembrances for Yakov written after he passed away
I am happy that Yakov Kreizberg's and my paths have crossed. Our meeting in music is unforgettable although we met only a few times - once in Switzerland, a few times in UK, also in the Netherlands. Yakov Kreizberg's interests included contemporary music. I don't know how and when Yakov Kreizberg got to know my music but he performed a number of my compositions.
One of the most memorable events of my life is connected with Yakov Kreizberg. Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra which was led by Yakov Kreizberg at that time commissioned a new composition. I composed a symphony for a big orchestra. The world premiere was held in summer 1999 in Royal Albert Hall, London. All worries faded with the first sounds.
Yakov Kreizberg gave a life to my opus and the symphony sounded out in one flow. Yakov Kreizberg's precise gestures, keen eye and ability to mobilize and inspire created a musical miracle.
In spring 2011 I was getting ready to go to Amsterdam. Yakov Kreizberg had planned a concert of my music but then the tragic news came... We were soul mates and were united by spiritual kinship. Yakov Kreizberg sensed, understood and gave a life to every single sound.
Peteris Vasks
Maestro Kreizberg was a very kind and gentle human being. His gifts as a conductor were extraordinary - to the point that at times you felt he was channeling the composer. He shall be greatly missed.
Rachel
Dear Amy, I just learned of Yakov's passing in my UM Muse alumni magazine. My deepest sympathy to you and your children. I first met him at the Detroit airport on his first visit to Michigan - he saw my violin, and we shared a cab to Ann Arbor. I was the first woman that Gustav Meier accepted into the masters' program in orchestral conducting. Now I am the CEO and founder of Pressure-Free Living. I created a method of staying stress-free all day. I would love to send you a free copy of my pdf book for you and your sons. Just recently I lost one of my dearest friends, the conductor Matthew Hazelwood - I was his Exec. Dir. for 10 years. I am sharing my coaching with his wife and two children. I kept telling Matthew about my coaching, and how I wish I had insisted on giving him a session. He passed away of a heart attack at only 57. Your husband was a magnificent talent, and I feel honored to have known him.
Elle (Pamela) Starrett Ingalls
Mr. Kreizberg was a wonderful man. I've had the honour to meet him several times in the Concertbuilding in Amsterdam. I miss his sparkling personality very much every time I go to a concert. It was always a joy to see him doing the work he loved with such a big smile. R.I.P. Yakov.
J.R.
Voilà un an que vous nous avez quitté cher maître et quand j'écoute vos enregistrements je songe à ce que vous auriez pu accomplir encore à l'écoute de ceux-ci. Vos enregistrements de Dimitri Chostakovitch sont sublimes, les symphonies 5 et 9, les concertos pour violoncelle... mais aussi les nombreux concertos enregistrés avec Julia Fischer, P.I. Tchaikovsky, Brahms que de beautés... Mes hommages les plus sincères par un modeste musicien, passionné par direction d'orchestre que vous avez su, oh combien, magnifier.
Alain PREVOST
Dear Maestro, I have had the honour and pleasure to work with you while playing with the Jeunesses Musicales World Orchestra in 1997-1998. I was very young back then, but meeting you and having the opportunity of performing under your supervision has made a very strong impression on me. Even now, after so many years have passed, I still clearly remember your very expressive conducting style, but also your humour. (The way you were pronouncing " Baba Yaga" - while rehearsing Pictures at an Exhibition would always bring a smile on my face). I wish I could have had the opportunity to meet you and perform under your supervision one more time, the news of your passing away has come as such a shock! I have so many things to say… I guess most importantly I would like to say "Thank you, for being such a great person and complete musician! Thank you for everything!" Rest in peace Maestro...
Andrei Bacu
Ein hervorragender Dirigent ist leider viel zu früh von uns gegangen, seine Musik wird aber ewig bleiben! Den Hinterbliebenen mein aufrichtiges Beileid.
Rudi Schicker
I had the privilege of traveling with Yakov and the University of Michigan Chamber Chorale to eastern block countries in 1983 as a "good will" tour sent by the US State Department. Yakov was always so much fun and a brilliant musician. He accompanied us on piano and also worked with our chamber orchestra that traveled with us. As a soloist I enjoyed his tremendous sensitivity and zest for music and life itself. I taught him how to throw the frisbee :-) What a tremendous talent and person cut down early in life.
David Parker
I m so deeply sad as I won't be able to close my eyes and fly away with his music....
Silvia Pierro
Yakov was a very kind, funny, and inspiring colleague when we were students at Michigan, and a wonderful, wonderful musician. My sincere condolences and best wishes to his friends and family.
Jane Schoonmaker Rodgers
Por desgracia solo una vez pude tocar bajo su batuta y fue una experiencia de lo mas emotiva. Injustamente no podre repetirla… Yakov queda para siempre en la memoria y en el corazon.
Krzysztof Wisniewski
I was blessed to have worked with you both in college and professionally later in life. I will never forget you nor the dedication you possessed - it was so obvious, your talents! I will always remember you as the warm, wonderful person you were and will miss you always. Love to you Amy, know I will always hold you close to my heart. With love, ~Jim
Jim Neglia
Yakov was my accompanist at the University of Michigan in 1982. He was an astonishing man. He was the perfect gentlemen and a superb accompanist. He taught me so much in so little time. I really wasn't that good, but he made me look the best I could. I posted an excerpt of his accompanying me in 1982 at U of M: https://www.markwinkler.net/in-memory-of-yakov-kreizberg/ My deepest sympathy to Amy and her family.
Mark Winkler
I live in Devon and remember his wonderful concerts with the BSO. He was a great talent, he has died much too soon. Heartfelt condolences to family and friends.
Clive Stubbings
I had the great privilege of attending two of Maestro Kreizberg's concerts with the Cincinnati Symphony. Both concerts were brilliant and memorable. I am greatly shocked and saddened to learn of the loss of this superb musician. My condolences to his family.
Jack Dahlquist
Please accept my deep condolences for the loss of Yakov. I admired his art and my heart is crying with his family for his early death. It is a greatest and untimely loss. Unfortunately, I did not meet Yakov personally, but I am his second cousin. My father, Boris, is a cousin of Yakov’s father, May. My grandmother Bella and Yakov’s grandmother Rose were sisters and lived in Kiev together, where Rose has died in 1962. As Yakov’s family we emigrated to US in late 80s and live now in Boston.
Irina Kulinets
Dear Amy, David and Daniel, I received an e-mail this morning from a friend in Boulder informing me of your sad news. I cannot tell you how shocked and sad I feel. Yakov had the rare quality of not only being an internationally renowned conductor but more importantly a very loving husband and father. It was that side of him that I so enjoyed. Family meant every thing to him and I admired his ability to bring an energy of childlike innocence to your home. I always knew as I was dropping off or picking up Ben, when Yakov was home: his life force was so vibrant. The world has lost a very special soul and my prayers and thoughts are with you all. With love, Jane
Jane Morrison
Dear Amy, David and Daniel. Please accept my condolences for the loss of your husband and father. In my brief meeting with Yakov at the Gala event here in Boulder, I found him to be an exceptionally charming, genuine and humble man (especially considering his prodigious accomplishments). We miss you here in Boulder. Love, Kirk Margoles and family
Kirk Margoles
To Amy, David and Daniel, I was very surprised and saddened to hear about Yakov. Even though it's been 10 years since I've seen all of you, I still think about you, and have your picture in my nanny album. You were my first long term family I cared for, and I will always remember the good times we shared. Yakov was a very special man, taken way too soon. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family… Hugs and good wishes, Jean
Jean Padubrin-Reed
Very, very sad! I had the privilege to have been witness to some of his concerts in Munich and I believe his recording of the fifth symphony of D. Shostakovich is the most authentic in existence. It is not possible to listen to it and not being moved.
Ralf Stiepel
Meine tief empfundene Anteilnahme. Maestro Kreizberg wird mir immer Ansporn und Inspiration sein - als wunderbarer Mensch und als Musiker. Requiescat in pace - faciendam musicam!
Ekhart Wycik
Dearest Amy, Today I thought of you and the family in Monaco. I "googled" the Symphony to check in. I was shocked and am still in disbelief that Yakov has passed. His warm, enthusiastic hugs and great smiles when he came to school to pick up Daniel are among my most fond memories. His love of you, David and Daniel was apparent in his every move and conversation. With love to all of you.
Barbara Hutton
Rest in peace, Yakov. We'll all miss you.
Aldo Fabrizi
Ich habe als Tänzer am Gemeinschafts-Theater Mönchengladbach Krefeld vielen Vorstellungen mit Ihm als Dirigent erleben dürfen. Er war ein großartiger Künstler und ein absolut liebenswerter Mensch. Sein sympathisches Lächeln wird mir immer in Erinnerung bleiben. Seiner Familie übersende ich mein größtes Beileid.
Francisco Sanchez Martinez
Paul and I were dumbstruck by the news of Yakov’s death. Magical music making, mirthful laughter, and merry fun marked the three years we spent at Michigan together with Yakov. We enjoyed reconnecting when he was conducting in Cincinnati, and were moved to tears by his dynamic performances, but struck on a much deeper level by his ability to pick up where we had left off, and laugh as if we had just left Ann Arbor. We too followed Yakov’s career with great joy, knowing that really nice guys can finish first, and make a significant impact on the lives of many in the process. Our hearts break for you Amy and your boys. May they carry their father’s legacy of merry, magical, musical and mirthful living.
Elizabeth Elvidge and Paul Nelson
The last time I saw Yakov was in Toronto and he was gleefully saying goodbye to his young son as he left for the opera. He was fully of joy, happiness, and energy. This is how I remembered him from our days touring Eastern Europe with the University of Michigan and how I will remember him for the rest of my life. His life, cut too short, was that of a brilliant musician and conductor whom I am sure touched the lives of all that had the chance to know him and to work with him. Rest in Peace, Yakov.
Lynne Giacalone Church
Yakov was a musical genius. An exceptional talent but also a genuinely nice person. I only knew him for a short time at Michigan, but we collaborated on a recital and I will never forget him.
Michael Pavelich
Heartfelt condolences to Yakov's family. I remember him fondly from our days at the University of Michigan, and I followed his career over the years with joy. I am saddened to know of his passing, but I know he will be remembered fondly by many for all the beauty he brought to the world through music.
Frank Ticheli, Composer
Dear Amy, my family and I send our heartfelt condolences. The world has lost a wonderful artist. Ha-Makom y'nachem et'chem b'toch sha'ar aveilei Tzion v'Yerushalayim.
Sharon Shaffer (nee Bennett), went to U of M with Yakov
Yakov and I attended Mannes at the same time. I always enjoyed his spirit and passion in our classes together and even today I feel those wonderful qualities. My sympathy to all who love him.
Paul Alexander
Yakov was truly one of the most kind hearted individuals I have ever had the greatest fortune to know. His life was deeply rich with both love as well as the artistry of music. I know my life was richer for knowing him. You are dearly missed.
Kamber
Mir hat Er die Klassic nähergebracht ,verständlich gemacht. Ein sehr grosser Verlust.
Michael Germer
I cannot believe what I read today in the NY Times. Yakov, my friend and classmate from our University of Michigan years is gone. First rate conductor? Of course. There is no doubt about that. But generous, level-headed, kind, respectful, funny... these are not qualities normally associated with such a great man... all of which he was and so much more. I am so saddened by this loss. We need many more Yakovs in this world. I send my heartfelt prayers and thanks to God for this wonderful life and my most sincere condolences to Amy and the children.
Jos Line
You will be missed...
Juan Pablo Mardones
I am so very saddened at the untimely death of Maestro Kreizberg. I performed under him many times with the Minnesota Orchestra and his passion and intensity were unrivaled and thrilling. He was a lovely man who took time to sit down with me to talk about my work. Kind. Warm. Generous. He will be missed. I hope that his family has some consolation in the heartfelt expressions from the many people who admired him. With condolences.
Janet Horvath
We are shocked and saddened that the conductor of the unforgettable and dazzling performance we experienced of Beethoven's 9th symphony in the Concertgebouw a few years ago is no longer with us. Wishing strength and peace to the family of Yakov Kreizberg.
Lisa and Lee Ross-Marcus, Amsterdam
Yakov went way out of his way to be extraordinarily kind and helpful to me when I was a young student at Tanglewood in 1981-82 and in subsequent years. He always called me "Danny Boy" and was a wonderful friend and I also learned a great deal about conducting and about music from him. I was really shocked to learn of his passing. My very warmest wishes to Amy and family.
Daniel Shapiro
May the precious legacy of your recordings keep your memory alive for this and future generations, and may your family and friends find comfort in recollections of love and joy.
Andrew V Ettin
The world misses your presence. Bless your memory and may God help your family endure and prosper.
Matthew Peerce
Lamento profundamente la partida de este gran Maestro, tuve el enorme placer de estar bajo su batuta hace muchos años con la Orquesta de Juventudes Musicales en Berlín. Guardo los más bellos recuerdos de esa maravillosa experiencia. Paz en su tumba.
Angélica gámez
Thank you for your wonderful talent. May you rest in peace.
Pat Boni
"It is not the length of life, but depth of life." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. Rest peacefully, Mr. Kreizberg.
Stephanie
Thank you for your music.
Jacob
Having participated in an opera workshop in Weikersheim, Germany where Mr. Kreizberg conducted a couple of years ago, I came to respect his work greatly, as well as know him as a very kind, helpful and resourceful choir conductor. It was a pleasure and an honour to have performed with him. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
Iva Bura
I just saw the news of Yakov's passing in the NY Times and I am deeply saddened. Yakov was such a dynamo at the University of Michigan School of Music when I attended there. I also got to know Amy both there and at Aspen and she was as much a musical dynamo as Yakov. He was always so involved in the day to day process of making music and he totally enjoyed every moment of it. It was a thrill when I first saw his name as conductor with the NY Met Opera soon after his graduation from Michigan. We all figured Yakov would do great musical things. Your family of past a present Michigan Music School Students are thinking of you in this great time of loss. Yakov lived his musical life to the fullest.
Pat Fisher
My sincerest condolences to all of the friends and family who have lost such a superb human being and musician. As a young conductor and musician myself, Maestro Kreizberg serves as an inspiration and a teacher. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.
Jonathan Palmer Lakeland
My sincerest condolences to Amy and the boys. Your friends in Boulder are devastated by this news and remember Yakov with great affection as a generous, magnetic and joyful presence in the world. Our prayers are with you.
Michael Butterman
I am deeply moved by his loss. It takes me back to my visits to the composer and pianist Alexis Rago in Montecarlo.
Hector Perez Marchelli
Ich bin sehr traurig. Ich habe Herrn Kreizberg in Hamburg mit dem NDRSO und der 4. Sinfonie von Franz Schmidt gehört und gesehen. Es war unglaublich eindrücklich. Ein Erlebnis, dass mich mein ganzes Leben begleitet. Danke, Maestro Kreizberg! Er ruhe in Frieden!
Christoph Gumpert
With sadness I learned about the loss of a truly great Maestro. Thank you for having shared the gift of music.
Paksy Plackis-Cheng
Our sincere deepest condolences to the family! What a great, great loss to a classical music world!
Natalya & Igor Kraevsky
Remembering your many revelatory performances in Minnesota.
Daniel Kunin
My sincere condolences to Yakov's family. I remember him well during his student days at Michigan. We thought him to be the most talented student ever to enroll in the conducting program. Beyond that, he was a wonderful human being. Generous with this student colleagues, wonderfully funny, and a role model for other students. I hope his boys will follow his footsteps as truly humane, generous human beings. A great loss to the music world.
Paul Boylan, Dean Emeritus, University of Michigan School of Music
Una gran pérdida para la música y para los melómanos. Que el Maestro descanse en paz.
Domingo Herráiz
M. Kreizberg, chapeau bas devant votre talent. C'est avec admiration que nous vous avons découvert en concert à Paris. Votre justesse, votre classe et votre vigueur nous évoquèrent alors celles d'Igor Markevitch. Nous découvrions ce soir-là un chef avec lequel le monde musical devrait désormais compter! Mais, si vous étiez bien de la trempe du "Prince Igor", votre passage aura finalement plutôt ressemblé à celui des météores de la musique tels que Guido Cantelli ou Ataulfo Argenta, bien trop tôt disparus, tout comme vous aujourd'hui... Nous réécouterons vos enregistrements et espérons que d'autres paraîtront bientôt, issus peut-être des archives du Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo... Là où vous êtes parti, nous vous souhaitons, M. Kreizberg, de diriger la plus prestigieuse des phalanges musicales, celle des anges.
Jean-François Lavigne
Maestro, we all miss you so much..! Thank you for making us better musicians and most important better human beings! We will keep you in our minds and hearts forever! The impact you had on our orchestra and our lives can not possibly be greater! Thank you for having faith in us and show us the way! The only way! Our hearts will sing your song for as long as we will live! We love you!
Raluca and Federico
Dear Maestro, How to thank you this couple of years we could work together? There is no way to express, how much you gave us during this short period. Your great musicality, of course, but much, much more. For us, you were not the greatest conductor ever we worked with, but the person with the greatest artistic and human charisma we've ever seen. The last period, as you were already fighting against the illness, every rehearsal, every concert you won a battle. As we saw you conducting, we all felt, you are free and happy. Always smiling, keeping the absolute freedom in the music: you just gave us a wonderful example how to live and how to die. RIP, Maestro.
Peter & Kati Szuts
Amy, I saw and heard Yakov in Minneapolis recently… this just simply cannot be. What energy, strength, confidence, knowledge musically and personally. It's been a long time since I've seen you but Yakov spoke so highly of you and his wonderful family. My sincere condolences, I'm so sorry. Fond memories of UM conducting. I'm so happy you both found each other.
Paul Burnett
¡Que ha pasado, maestro! Tenías que dirigir el concierto de oviedo, y tuvo que ser neeme jarvi... pero no pensaba que estabas tan mal. Pero pude ver cómo jarvi se apartaba para que pudieses dirigir unos compases de la arlesiana desde el cielo… ¡Qué grande eras! ¡Qué vacío dejas! Sigue con tu música deleitando a quienes ahora están a tu lado, hasta que los demás nos reunamos contigo, maestro.
Manuel Villa López
I first met this extraordinary musician during my tenure as concertmaster of the Canadian Opera Orchestra were we performed some exquisite Mozart. This meeting developed into a wonderful lasting friendship and many musical adventures and ideas were exchanged. Yakov Kreizberg was a musician of the highest standards, who attained these standards by making music simple and splendid, and always bringing out what most matters in music and life: Heart and soul! You will always be remembered dear friend and your heart and soul will live happily among the fortunate ones who met you or played music with you.
Jaime Paz Weisenblum
Super chef!! RIP.
Pablo
My association with Maestro Kreizberg occurred over 30 years ago when we were both students at the Mannes College of Music in New York city. I was the soloist and Yakov the brilliant young conductor. He was always so jovial among his classmates yet so serious as he stepped onto the podium. The world has lost a superb artist and a great soul. My condolences to his wife and family.
Allen Won
Have had the chance to met this great musician during his visit in germany end of last year. Thank you for being with us. Its such a big loss. All good wishes and prayers for his family.
Antje
I am so shocked to hear about Yakov Kreizberg´s death. I was so happy to see his career and recordings in full blossom ever since I saw and heard his conducting of Shostakovich´s 11th symphony at Komische Oper Berlin. I adored this charismatic, very sympathetic and good looking man. I love his album of Russian Violin Concerti with Julia Fischer. It is very sad to see the scheduled concerts he was to conduct in the next months. Somebody else might conduct, but he will never replace Yakov Kreizberg.
Matthias Büdinger
What a tragedy for his sons and his wife. What a loss for the music world. I will always remember his lively musical sensitivity at the Jeunesse World Orchestra. He will go on living.
Sebastian Riemer
I met Yakov Kreizberg in October 2004 after a concert with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra in Viennese Musikverein. We wanted him for the opening concert of our Melos-Ethos Festival 2005 in Bratislava, unfortunately, his schedule for the next year was full. Nevertheless, I was deeply impressed by his charming personality, his kindness and his modesty which I will remember for the rest of my life. I am stunned to hear he left us forever, R.I.P.
Ivan Marton
Great loss for the music world, I'm so grateful to have seen your last Scheherazade in Amsterdam, R.I.P Maestro.
G. Berberian
I am so sad to hear the passing of this great conductor whom I saw many times at the Concertgebow in Amsterdam. I will think of him every time I see the name of the Netherlands Philharmonic. My condolences to his family. We will not forget him. Ever...
Ilka Klemme
A huge loss, a wonderful man and gifted musician. I am very sad that he is not among us anymore. I wish his wife and his children faith and strength for these terrible moments.
Fabio Luisi
We heard of Yakov Kreizberg's death on BBC Radio 3 this morning, 25 March. We had the privilege of meeting him when he conducted a special performance of our friend Peteris Vasks' 2nd Symphony in Bournemouth on the night before the official world premiere in London in 1999. We count it a great privilege to have done so.
David & Alison Goodall
Last week I was shocked to hear the news of Yakov Kreizberg's passing. The last concerts I heard with him conducting were the wonderful 3-day Mozart Violin Concerto Cycle in Frankfurt last May, with his protege and, one could almost say muse, Julia Fisher. At the time he did not look well but this did not in any way affect the music-making! I spoke with him then, and I very much hoped to see him again. Previously I had heard him in concerts with the Netherlands Philharmonic (Brahms and Beethoven with Julia Fischer and Shostakovich with Daniel Mueller-Schott as well as Orchestral Programs). He was a splendid conductor, and a warm, gentle human being, who will be missed sorely.
Jaap van Heerden
What a great loss... This talented, charismatic man, who had to offer so much to this world is no longer with us. I saw him for 2 years in the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and through him I learned to love classical music so much more. My english is not so good, but I just have to express my condolences for this wonderful man. If there is a heaven, then there must be beautiful music right now. To his family I just can say that there must be lots of wonderful memories to comfort them in this great sorrow. I will never forget Yakov Kreizberg...
Claartje de Groot, Netherlands
I am saddened to have read today of the untimely passing of Yakov Kreizberg, and would like to offer my condolences to all that were close to him. I remember seeing Yakov Kreizberg for the first time at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. His performance as conductor was quite remarkable and his very impressive and imposing posture was what immediately stood out, as well as his energy. Heads and shoulders above all other conductors I have seen before and since, may he rest in peace.
Paul Chalmers
I had the very great pleasure to work with Maestro Kreizberg in the Canadian Opera Company as well as in the Toronto Symphony where his work was highly appreciated. Please accept my deepest sympathies for such a tragic loss.
Joel Quarrington
Amy, Daniel and David, I embrace you in the loss of Yakov. Hold each other closely and treasure and share the memories of this magnificent man, husband and father. Much love to you.
Anne Cridler
Je n'oublierais jamais les prestations de L'orchestre Philarmonique de Monte-Carlo, que vous avez dirigé avec plaisir. A chaque concert, j 'ai pu voir l'amour du public venant vous applaudir durant de longues minutes. Un grand merci à vous Maître Kreizberg.
Thibault
Yakov Kreizberg was a gift to music and to the world. His commitment and selflessness will be remembered with love and deep admiration.
Julian Gallant
Maestro Kreizberg impressed me so much the first time I saw him at the BBC Proms in England many years ago. I admired his baton technique, the precision of his conducting, and his musicality. From then on, I'd try to attend every performance of his that I could get to. It is such a shock to hear that he has died so young. It seems unbelievable. My sincere condolences to his wife and sons family and friends. Rest in Peace, Maestro! You were loved, and will continue to live in our hearts forever!
Dr. Luis Dias
I met Maestro Kreizberg after attending a performance of Shostakovich's 11th symphony with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. He'd just led the entire concert from memory. It was an astounding performance, and the audience immediately jumped to their feet afterwards. I was so amazed by the performance that I bought a ticket to attend again the following night. After the second concert, we spoke again briefly and he shared some tips with me on score memorization which came in quite handy only a month ago in a Shostakovich performance of my own. He was among the greatest conductors of his generation, and we lost him in his prime. Such a tragedy... Still, I am grateful for having seen him in performance live. It was an experience I have never forgotten (I kept the ticket stub, which I only very rarely do), and I always bring that night back to mind each and every time I approach a new Shostakovich score.
Michael Bohnert Wheatley
We still can't believe Yakov is gone, but we find comfort in knowing we will see him again some time. From the first time we met him at U of M, we were charmed by his humor, and impressed with his appetite. We cherish the many memories we have of him conducting in Germany, England, Amsterdam and the states, and they remain the highlights of our lives. For as long as we live, each day we will remember his kindness, his incredible talent, his love of life, and his devotion to Amy and the boys. Vaya con Dios, dear Yasha.
Grandma & Grandpa Lasswell
Lamento profundamente esta pérdida irreparable. Yakov tenía un futuro espléndido, era muy probable que dirigiera los conciertos de año nuevo de 2013 o 2014 de la Filarmónica de Viena, que fuera elegido titular de una de las Big Five orquestas americanas. Aún recuerdo como Pérez de Arteaga el concierto de la maravillosa undécima sinfonía de Shostakovic en Madrid. Los melómanos de todo el mundo nos sentimos muy apenados.Como dice Julia Fischer: Hasta siempre, amigo. Forever friend. R.I.P.
Un amigo de España
Dear Maestro, dear Yakov, my dear friend, Working with you in Monaco has been a blessing, and I specially will never never NEVER forget our chamber music concert (Haydn, Grieg and Shostakovich) in december 2008 with Stanimir. To tell you the truth, from the 1st note of the 1st rehearsal to the last note of the concert, I was completely shaking with emotion and joy. You are an IMMENSE musician, I was so privileged to share the stage with you, and you have all my admiration. I want people to know that you were not only a great conductor but also an amazing pianist. You are a good man, you are beautiful, your soul is pure and beautiful, and so is your family. And you are so strong, you showed it to us so many times… how you came on stage and conducted, by memory, all these fabulous concerts... you really are a hero!!!!! So many people love you… one more may not change things so much… but remember that I love you too. You and your family are in my heart at every moment.
Liza Kerob
Ich war auch sehr traurig wie Jesús. Er war ein Maestro und ein Freund. Sie ruhe in Frieden. RIP. Forever friend.
Julia Fischer
Grazie, Maestro. I remember fondly your humor, your rehearsals, our lessons, and our very fast lunches. Coraggio e di pace per Amy, i tuoi figli, e la vostra famiglia.
Christopher Guardino
Dear Yakov, I can't believe you are not here anymore. It feels so strange to realize that. I will always remember your energy and the musical lessons that I learned from you during the tours with the Jeunesses Musicales World Youth Orchestra and also during your time with us in the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra. The dutch concert visitors loved you very much! I wish the family lots of solace and strength.
Mascha van Sloten
My deepest condolences to his wife and his two children. I met Yakov when he was conductor of the Niederrheinische Sinfoniker in Krefeld. The music world lost one of the kindest artists ever. I will ever remember him.
Joachim Köhler
Votre joie et amour nous manque déja terriblement. L'art musical et les humains ont perdu en vous un guide protecteur et novateur. Merci de nous avoir éclairer lors de votre chemin si court parmi les hommes. Toutes mes condoléances, profondes et respectueueses, dans le chagrin qui vous blesse en ces moments douloureux. Que la Force et la beauté vous aide dans votre épreuve.
Gabriel Martinez
Dear Maestro. For years his wonderful art made us cry our eyes, whether to the sound of live or listen to recordings that treasures that remain in our hearts. Thanks for what you did for the music, composers, performers, and listeners. Rest in peace.
José Antonio Lodeiro Alvarez
Sincere condoglianze alla Vostra Famiglia.
Savina
Dear Maestro, thank you for the music that you made. It's very hard for me to find out the way to console my sadness. You leave us, but the music that you made never leaves us. Rest in peace, my maestro.
Sung Won Kim
Un grande uomo, una grande perdita per tutti noi.
Daniela e Riccardo
We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences on the untimely death of our praised conductor. We pray for his soul to rest in peace and for his family to gain strength from this. All our sympathy is with his family.
Daniela and Arnaud Pascal - Antibes, France
The memory of an immense Maestro totally devoted to the music and of an extreme kindness. To see him is to manage does without any comment. Emotion, Sincerity, Passion. I would keep an excellent memory of Maestro Kreizberg, which is enormously going to miss us and which already misses us. R.E.S.P.E.C.T maestro THANK YOU. R.I.P.
E. Lillo
Grazie Maestro, il suo esempio porti tutti i musicisti a lavorare duramente per la nostra nobile arte come ha fatto Lei.
Giulio
Au revoir, Maestro, et merci pour tout ce que vous nous avez apporté, musicalement et humainement. Je garderai toujours en mémoire cette Turangalilah... et le Concerto pour Clarinette de Mozart donné dernièrement sous votre direction. Vous avez certainement retrouvé, là où vous êtes, les grands compositeurs dont vous avez su magnifier la musique... Nul doute qu'ils vous auront réservé une place de choix parmi eux. Reposez en paix, Maestro. Votre oeuvre ne cessera de croître ici bas.
Bruno
Le chemin des émotions s’ouvre devant la baguette, Quant l’esprit, le cœur et l’âme s’unissent de concert, Alors la force et la fougue du chef nous libère du poids de l’humain. Merci d’avoir donné la beauté de votre art, vous qui l’avez reçue. Sincèrement, Philippe Métaut
Philippe Métaut
Ich bin sehr traurig. He was one of the best conductors in the world. I am very sad.
Jesús
Dearest Yakov, words cannot express the pain of loosing you. You have been one of my closest friends and a guiding light for 31 years. I feel so blessed having shared so many beautiful memories from our early years together in New York up until our last e-mails in January. Your incredible spirit, warmth, humanity and enormous talent will always be with all of us who had a good fortune of knowing you. I feel that I have lost a brother I never had. Rest in peace, dearest Yasha.
Valery Ryvkin
I’ll never forget Verdi´s Requiem last year in Monte Carlo. It was a nice first but unfortunately last experience with this great and charismatic conductor. I can still see his eyes full of energy and enthusiasm…
Tony
Dear Yakov, the few times we met were very inspiring. My memories of seeing you work with great enthusiasm with the many members of the Jeunesses Musicales World Youth Orchestra are still very vivid. My deepest condolences to Amy and the family.
Stefan Sander
Your passing is just a big big loss for the whole musical world. You live forever with your music in my heart.
Chris Nee
I’ll remember your passionate way to conduct. I resume all you did with: BRAVO!
Jaime Arroyo
Me acabo de enterar. Ya estaba enfermo cuando logró sacar lo mejor de la Orquesta Nacional de España, con una estremecedora lectura de la nº11, de Shostakóvich. Hubiera sido un estupendo titular para nuestra querida Nacional. En Monte-Carlo, Holanda y allá donde enseñó buena música y estilo le llorarán. Pude compartir en dos ocasiones algunas palabras con él. Su pasión por la música y cercanía en lo personal le hicieron grande.
Jaime Arroyo
Dearest Yakov, thank you for the last two years that we have worked together. Lots of wonderful moments, your fantastic performances… everything. Thank you! I will miss you lots I send my condolences to Amy and your sons love Sven
Sven Arne Tepl
Thank you for many inspiring evenings at the Komische Oper.
Florian Hollfelder
I well remember how much liked and admired he was when he first went to Glyndebourne: it's a sure mark of an artist's humanity when chorus members like him as a person as well as the folk he's more obliged to be nice to… Shocked and sad to hear this, glad there's a decent number of recordings to remember him by.
David Nice
I haven’t often met such a lovely, kind, tolerant person and incredible musician like Yakov. It is an unbearable loss! I’m so thankful that I had the chance to meet such a special person, but I’m so sad that I can’t see him again. All my thoughts are with Amy, Daniel and David!!
Yasmine D.
It has been nearly exactly one year after. On 13, 14 and 15, March 2010, Yakov Kreizberg conducted the Orquesta Nacional de España in a really big program with Mendelssohn Die Hebriden and Violin Concerto in E (w. Akiko Suwanai) and Shostakovich Symphony No. 11 - one of his total specialities - I broadcasted the Sunday concert and I remember our faces - the Spanish National Radio engineers and mine, just at the beginning of Mendelssohn's overture. "What a marvellous sound!" was the unanimous sentence. Later, he produced an incredible "1905" by Shostakovich, full of tension, energy and greatness. The orchestra players commented about the remarkable conductor. The day before, March 14, we recorded an interview with him after the concert, to be broadcasted on Sunday morning: he was sweet, clever, precise, elegant and cordial. Her wife was with him, and they looked to be a very strong team. He was not only a great, unforgettable musician, but a golden human being. Your memory lives with us, Maestro.
José Luis Pèrez de Arteaga
What a loss! Sincere condolences to the family.
Michael Douglas
I always will remember the five marvelous years and all the concerts I had the honour and the privilege to work with Yakov in The Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra. I never met a conductor that was such a musician between the musicians, in his overwhelming warm way. Thank you! All my thoughts are with your family.
Lodewijk da Silva Rosa
Maestro Inolvidable, Descance en Paz.
Joaquin Borges
What a tragic loss, it is nearly unbearable to know that I will never see and talk to this kind, wonderful person again. My deepest condolences to Amy and his sons.
Stephan Zwiauer
A great loss - my sympathies to Yakov's family.
John humphreys
Peace, Maestro...
Maestro Allan Christian
Mi más sentido pésame, un grandísimo director. Descanse en paz.
Joan Marc Pino
It is very an great honor, to have worked with Maestro Kreizberg on all these productions, Cd, concert… I am sad with the idea to never see him again, but so happy to have shared these marvelous moments with him.
Sylvain Denis
I was really shocked when I read about the death of Yakov Kreizberg. It was in 2009 when I decided I had to see and hear Beethovens 7th symphony as soon as possible in a concert for the first time. Thus neither knowing Julia Fisher nor Yakov Kreizberg I bought tickets for a concert where the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra lead by Yakov played Wagners Ouverture to the Flying Dutchman, Kathaturians Violin Concerto with Julia Fisher, Beethovens 7th symphony and Sibelius' Valse Triste as an encore. It was a very special evening for me which deepened my love for classical music very much. I enjoyed the maestro's way of conducting and his interpretation. I also love his recordings of Violin Concertos with Julia Fisher on CD. Thank you for the music, r.i.p.! My most sincere condolence to his wife and sons!
Tobias Fabian-Krause
This is sad news. I only saw Yakov conduct once, but it is etched on my memory. It was when he was with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. They were performing Stravinsky's Rite of Spring in Plymouth's barn-like Pavilions concert hall. I had only heard the Rite on record up till then and not liked it much. Yakov and the Orchestra made the work come alive for me and the precision of his conducting was fascinating to watch and made Stravinsky's music so intelligible. A great loss to music and life.
Paul Kelly
I recall attending what may have been Yakov Kreizberg's first London appearance at the Royal Festival Hall, in a programme that included a wonderful performance of Shostakovich's 5th Symphony. It is so sad that his life has been cut short so prematurely, and I offer my sincere condolences to his family.
Richard Landau
Dear Amy! You and your sons should know that we feel very sorry and that our thoughts are with you. Yakov was the one who introduced us into his wonderful world of music and we were impressed from his great personality. We will never forget the time when you were our friends and neighbours.
Sabine & Michael Erfort with Katharina, Cornelius & Alexandra
He kept my thoughts from dwelling, he prevented me to fall asleep, he forced me to look at him, pointing my attention to his hands which the orchestra followed as well without any hesitation and made me listen to the music. I will miss this. My thoughts are with his family.
Ronny van Steenis
All of us who knew him while at the University of Michigan will be shocked and saddened by his departure at so young an age. May his family be held up in this hour of loss, knowing that he made friends who followed his career for his entire life and are sorry to never see him or experience his special ear for balance and clarity again. He shall be missed.
Jon F. Krueger
What a great loss to the music world. I knew the Maestro's work exclusively through recordings, which testified to an immense talent. It's a consolation to know we will have such a rich recorded legacy. My best to his widow and children.
Tom Morrissey
I had the pleasure to work with him in Weikersheim during the 2005 Summer. He was extremely inspiring and encouraging, may he rest in peace.
Mario Anton
Lamento mucho el fallecimiento del maestro Kreizberg. Tuve la suerte de conocerlo en Weikersheim con la Jonde. Un gran músico y una persona llena de energía. DEP.
Enric Buñuel
I had the privilege of attending all of the performances of Bruckner's 4th Symphony he conducted at the Concertgebouw a few years ago. Outstanding, deeply moving. And we heard him guest-conduct the National S.O. in Washington, D.C. What a wonderful talent. And he came across as a fine human being. I was looking forward to his scheduled performances of Beethoven in Amsterdam. A great, great loss.
Dr. Wayne Lutton
Maestro Kreizberg came to conduct us here at l'Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal a number of time and he was a real pleasure to work with. I'm sure I will speak for all of my colleagues in expressing sincere condolences to his family for his untimely passing.
David Quinn
We are greatly saddened to learn of Yakov's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Amy and the boys, as well as all of Yakov's family.
Carl and Diane Anderson and family
I never thought of hearing this very sad news so soon! My heart has been broken. My son and I just met Mr. and Mrs. Kreizberg during his concert tour in Germany last December. They were such a beautiful couple and really sweet to us as usual. I have been his big fan since he was working for the Komische Oper Berlin, so I have attended many of his concerts in Germany, Japan and Vienna. It’s just regrettable not to have been able to see his conducting in Amsterdam and Monte Carlo. I may never be able to find such a great musician with very warm heart any more. He and his music saved me from crises many times. Thank you Maestro, and please rest in peace. You will live in all our hearts among my family and many Japanese fans forever. Our sorrow is with Amy and their sons.
Itsuko Fujita-Ernst
As a regular at the Monte Carlo Philharmonic, Yakov transformed the orchestra into something special. His love and feeling for the music was always clear to see and I am devastated at the news. All sympathy to his family.
Laurie Blackmore
I worked with him in the JONDE, a shame. Rest in peace wherever you are....
Fernando Román Molero
My dearest friend, my soul-brother, has left this earth and his family and us behind... I feel devastated that I shall no longer be able to make music with you, to hear your voice, to feel your great humanity and your incredible modesty, to spend all the time between concerts with you talking about things that really matter, and so often not talking at all, just knowing that you knew and cared... I know that you have just gone to the great beyond and that you are still there and still care, if it was not for that it would unbearable. Rest in peace, my dear Yascha!
Prof. Florian Zwiauer
Incredible! Beloved Yakov not only has left the musical community but also our German family. Full of grace I'm thinking back to all the marvelous moments on stage, back stage and privately. I'm feeling with Amy and the boys and wish them all the power needed.
Wolfram Sittig
My condolences to the family. May the Eternity comfort you all. Last time I heard the Mahler 5 with Dutch Philharmonic Orchestra In Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. It was great. Thank you, Yakov.
Nico van der Zee
I worked with the Maestro with the National Youth Orchestra of Spain (JONDE) in the summer or 2005 in Weikersheim, Germany, and it was amazing. All the orchestra were very happy working with him. I'm so sad for this news, and I'd like to send my condolences to the family. RIP.
Ignacio Denia
I had the pleasure of seeing Yakov conduct at St Davids Hall on two occasions and found him to be one of the most "musical" conductors I had ever seen, a maestro of great integrity and humility. He conducted a magnificent Mahler 5. I am shocked at his passing, he had so much more to give. My thoughts are with his family. Be under no illusions. Classical music has lost a GREAT conductor. God bless.
Paul Johnson
Our thoughts and prayers are with Amy, the boys and all the rest of the family. Yakov's life here ended far too soon, but he will not be forgotten for the impact he made in his too brief time with us.
Gary & Cheryl Anderson & family
We are heartbroken to hear the news as is the entire Anderson family. Our condolences to Amy and the boys.
Clarence & Doris Anderson
Voy a escribirlo primero en castellano. Lamento mucho el fallecimiento de este gran director y envío todas mis fuerzas a sus familiares. Now in English: I am sorry very much the death of this great director and I wanna send all my forces to his relatives.
Aitor
I am so sorry to hear of Yakov's passing. He was a bright and inspiring person that is missed.
Nancy DeMilio Scott
So sad to hear this news. Loved to see him conducting the Nedpho. Keep him in good memory.
Rose Smit
So young, so talented! He gave us so much pleasure with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Condolences to his family and friends. R.I.P.
Chris Newman
How simply dreadful. My heart goes out to his wife and family, and his many friends and colleagues. He will be greatly missed. So young and with such great talent, compassion and feeling. May God bless. Sending prayers and blessings.
Pannie
What an phenomenal conductor, with such a charisma he will be missed by the dutch audience at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam conducting the Nedpho. I remember his last Russian concert, the Rimsky-Korsakov Scheherazade.
Ad Rombout
Mes plus sinceres condoleances a la famille si eprovée de Maitre Kreizberg ainsi qu'à l’OPMC. Je garderais toujours le souvenir merveilleu de ce grand chef et de cet homme si courrageux devant la maladie on se sent orfelins dans ces tristes moments. Paix à son ame.
Ada Posmantir
I was shocked and saddened to hear this news. My deepest condolences to his family. I saw him conduct just twice - both times Mahler 5, great performances and clearly a lovely man, he should have had a long and even greater career ahead of him. RIP.
Richard Ellis