It is with great sadness that I write this final post of the 2007 year.  Jerome Ashby, Associate Principal Horn of the New York Philharmonic, passed away early in the morning on December 26, 2007, after a nearly-two-year-long battle with cancer.

 

I got back from the Memorial Service earlier today and was overwhelmed, though not surprised, by the number of people in attendance.  Musically, Jerome was a gift to the orchestra.  I will miss his gorgeous sound and sensitivity.  But personally, I will miss him even more.  His sense of humor and laugh were infectious.  He was always upbeat, no matter the circumstances.  He was also a dignified human being, loving to his family and dedicated to his colleagues.  One of my colleagues stated it so well recently, in that when you spoke with Jerome, you always felt better, personally.  He was genuinely interested in the personal lives of his colleagues, and he had genuine care and regard for every single person in the orchestra.  

 

Jerome also carried these qualities to his students, friends, and non-Philharmonic life, so it was not a great surprise to see so many people at his memorial today.  The fact that so many attended only served to reinforce the universal nature of his qualities.

 

Probably the best memory I have of Jerry comes recently - back in September, when he started back in with the orchestra after a year long absence.  At the opening rehearsal, all of the new members of the orchestra were given their customary welcome; following, Jerry was given a welcome back.  And the reaction to it was tremendous, probably a full minute of uninterrupted applause, whooping and hollering, and cheers from all present on stage.  

 

Though Jerry left only a few short weeks later to deal with his latest medical issues, God had given him an Epilogue - a chance to have one more shot in the orchestra, to remember why he got into music in the first place, to see dear colleagues once again, and to share in the Joy of music making.  

 

Cancer is a horrible disease -- there is often little dignity in it -- but Jerome handled it with all the courage and spirit one could possibly hope for from a human being.  

 

To Jerry:  I, the orchestra, your friends, your family, everyone whom you may have had contact with will miss you; may you find rest and comfort in the arms of the Lord your God.