Tributes to Arnold Jacobs
With a career spanning seven decades with the Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and Chicago Symphonies, Arnold Jacobs has earned a reputation as a world-class performer. Equally significant are his teachings. During his career, thousands of students have passed through his studio.
Here are some video tributes. First, a part of the Chicago Symphony’s Tribute to Arnold Jacobs from December 17, 1998. Here is a recording of the Romanza from the Vaughan Williams Tuba Concerto with pictures of his life and career. This is followed by the Chicago Symphony performing The Great Gate of Kiev from Pictures at an Exhibition along with tributes from his colleagues.
Mr. Jacobs, you have not been forgotten!
From Arnold Jacobs: Song and Wind*
On October 7, 1998 Mr. Jacobs passed away but as a performer and teacher his legacy will continue for generations.
Adolph Herseth, former principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony states, “I cannot think of anyone in our exotic world of music, and particularly, of course in the world of Brass Legends, who has made such a contribution to so many facets of our art.”
Former CSO trombonist Edward Kleinhammer says, “As a teacher he is world-acclaimed, and as a colleague and musician, I am thankful to God for Arnold Jacobs.”
Henry Fogel, former Executive Director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra writes about Arnold Jacobs. “Your achievements are legendary– something that can be said about few orchestral musicians. As a tubist, as a teacher, as a major influence on generations of Brass Legends, you stand as a model for all who choose to serve the art of music.”
In his introduction to the United States Marine Band, former conductor Colonel John Bourgeois said about Jacobs, “It is rare to have the master performer as the master teacher. Arnold Jacobs is both.”
The Canadian Brass’s Charles Daellenbach says, “This man was a great natural teacher who could have probably taught anything, but who just happened to be a wind specialist. He’s the kind of legendary teacher that Liszt was for pianists of the 19th century.”
Dale Clevenger, principal horn of the Chicago Symphony, states, “Nearly every brass player in America has studied with Arnold Jacobs, whether [that player] knows it or not.”
Another colleague, former CSO principal oboist Ray Still says, He is, simply, God’s gift to wind musicians everywhere and I hope he lives forever.”
The late Sir Georg Solti praised Jacobs, “Through his unstinting support and encouragement of generations of Brass Legends the world over, he has justifiably become a legend in his own lifetime.”
*Arnold Jacobs: Song and Wind, Copyright 1996 Windsong Press, Ltd., All rights reserved.