Remembering Larry Rachleff, beloved conductor of Rice’s symphony and chamber orchestras

[@robertwboardman]

Larry was the best conducting teacher I ever had. His incredible love for the music, other people, humor, rigor, and spirit of dignifying the complete experience of simply being alive - as an example for all of us - was truly unique. He was in a category of his own. I don't even know how to express my sadness about the hole left behind by Larry's death. I often think of him while rehearsing an orchestra, and wonder what his remedy would be for a particular situation. Larry inspired me to see that it was possible to be a great conductor, an industrious musician, to love other people fearlessly, to be a person of integrity and substance, to be outlandishly hilarious, and that all of this could exist at the same time without compromise. I am left with endless gratitude for the many times I studied with him at conducting workshops between 1999 - 2012 and will carry the memory of him and his teaching with me forever.

[@davidh.vaughan897]

I was in Larry’s first graduate conducting class at the University of Connecticut. He was outstanding then, and I can imagine he only got better. He infused a love of music and passion for perfection to all students in his ensembles as well as his conducting students. Even now I recall his masterful technique and I’m so grateful to have been under his tutelage. Thanks so much for sharing this video.

[@erikforrester9374]

Thank you for bringing some bliss among the sadness with this tribute. I so wish now I had been in contact with Larry these past years. It is ironically, tears, which come from ecstatic joyfullness and deep sadness, which are among the most significant memories I have of my time with Larry as colleague, housemate and deep friendship in our summers at Interlochen Arts Camp. From Grainger to Mahler to Varese, Rilke and Richard Bach! I would not have become the musician and person I am today without Larry’s friendship and love. RIP my friend!

[@MalaNi76]

What an incredible human being whose existence and impact on us fellow musicians will be treasured for years to come. Gone too soon.

[@VEGANSAM]

I only saw him conduct once annually as the opening orchestra conductor for the Music Academy of the West, in Santa Barbara...& he was one of my ultimate favorites of all time. His intensity...coupled with warmth, was palpable. RIP, Maestro!

[@carolynswann8245]

Yes, thank you for posting this wonderful tribute! He left his mark on so many of us!

[@inthedesert2008]

Larry understood the depth of life enrichment that comes to aspiring music students. His approach and personality helped such enrichment and creativity to flourish. I am forever grateful for the joy and opportunity he brought me. I only wish I could have better honoured the faith he had in me. I suspect if I had sought his counsel during my struggles, he could have helped me during a troubled professional career. Hearing his voice brings me back to happier times and reminds me of the generous gifts he gave me.

[@starwarsjunkie7776]

His legacy was felt beyond Rice. I was fortunate to play under one of his students at Michigan State with Kevin Noe. I could tell he was a special person…and then I saw where he was from: Rice. Enough said. I wish I knew about Rice before I attended undergrad, otherwise I would have auditioned there. His command of sound was unparalleled. He was precise and always meant every gesture.

[@chelseatipton8968]

Thank you for posting this. It was a wonderful tribute to a great man!

[@sharonharlem]

does anyone know when/ where his last words in this video are from? I was privileged to play under him in Rhode Island Phil, and cannot overstate his influence in my life for those years and beyond. I auditioned there purely because he was the conductor, after having experienced him at New London Summerfest in CT. may your memory bless us always, dear Larry! ❤️💔❤️

[@leiaknibb8730]

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[@CAJHo]

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[@brass1231]

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[@christophermustell5393]

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[@esyomusicdirector4281]

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