Mr Holland’s opus is over

Mr Holland’s opus is over

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norman lebrecht

October 09, 2013

We regret to share news of the death of Richard Holland, livewire viola player of the Pittsburgh Symphony. He was 68 and played exactly half his life in the orchestra. Our condolences to family and friends. Obituary here.

photo posted on post-gazette.com

Comments

  • Brian James says:

    Dick was a great friend and mentor to me while I studied in Pittsburgh. He taught me how to enjoy a lazy afternoon. He taught me what to expect and demand in the music business. He taught me how to lay a BMW motorcycle way over. I was hoping to see him one last time. He was the real deal. They don’t make them like him anymore.

  • Very sorry to learn of this. His obit failed to mention that Richard Holland was a memorable teacher at the District of Columbia Youth Orchestra Program before he joined the PSO. He truly galvanized the students there and left a positive and lasting impression upon many of us.

  • Larry W says:

    I am sorry to hear of Dick Holland’s passing. He was in the viola section when I was principal. Wearing a black leather jacket and helmet, he would drive his BMW motorcycle to rehearsals. A flamboyant individualist who was never at a loss for words, he was also one helluva viola player.

    • Renee baker says:

      I studied with Mr Holland through the DC Youth Orchestra program .A lovely man , encouraging but I’ll always remember at my private lessons that he would let those huskies of his bite those cheese sandwiches along with him..lovely rides, terrific lessons, expectations greater than anyone else had for me.I love you Mr Holland for the dreams you allowed me to have and achieve….Rest well dear teacher…Renée Clark Baker

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