Void - noun 1 a completely empty space: the black void of space. • an emptiness caused by the loss of something: the void left by the death of his wife. Over the last several months we have lost some incredible forces of music education in Georgia. Each loss creates a void in the lives of those who continue, whether the loss is due to retirement or death. I observe that the larger the impact of each individual who teaches, the larger the void. It could be said that the same is true of us when we retire. However, there are certainly some aspects of what we did that we will miss: the interactions with the students and other teachers.
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Fritz Siler
summer 2016 / georgia music news
RETIRED MEMBERS
I attended Stutz Wimmer’s last performance with the jazz band at the Lovett School. It was a massive celebration of love, respect, and the joy of playing. For years he has pushed, prodded and encouraged the students to play with the highest of standards for the Ellington Festival at Lincoln Center. During the concert there were four surprise guest artists from the Lincoln Center Jazz Band who entered the stage playing, and a former student, Alexandra Jackson, who entered the stage singing. An amazing thing that occurred during the concert was the introduction of the new faculty member for jazz education. He played on the program, and directed the band on a tune. His inclusion was an indication that the program will remain in the tradition of highest standards. However, there will still be a void created with the departure of Stutz from the program he created. This void is only natural, and will naturally happen in many outstanding performing groups. Paul Vander Gheynst and Bob Barnett were powerful supporters of jazz and music education in Georgia. I was unable to attend the funeral services for Bob, and I mourn his loss. Another great void was created with his passing. Vander was like an older brother to me. His impact on the performing arts in Columbus will continue for generations. When you are in the River Center for a concert, you are standing in one of his creations. He designed the Music Department. The music directorship he did for many years in the Springer Opera House is now a part of that structure. As a host for numerous jazz workshops, he worked tirelessly and joyously, bringing the best in instrumental and vocal jazz artists to the students and directors. His playing was inspirational. All the while he was a part of the community and the students, with an insistence for optimism. He could also beat your socks off playing bridge. When his health began to fail he would sit on the back porch, or at the dining room table, and write 72 organ processionals for his beloved wife Sharon to play at the chapel on Ft. Benning. Yes. His death created a huge void. As we move into the summer months, I hope you remember how important you are to many who may be out of your view or awareness. When you leave the room, create a void… Are you about to retire? Get in touch with TRS! NOW, if you haven’t already done so.
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