Just in: Clarinet saves life as conductor suffers rehearsal heart attack
mainThe second clarinet saw it happening and acted fast. Dr Sheri Rolf, who is a medical practitioner at the Billings Clinic, recognised the signs of a heart attack as conductor Gordon Johnson started to sweat and sway during rehearsal with the Great Falls Symphony, in Montana. Here’s what happened next.
You know I’ve said this for years.
Clarinet players.
Saving the world, sometimes one person at a time.
Sheri Rolf is a terrific person. I had the pleasure of meeting her at the International Clarinet Association’s annual ClarinetFest a few years ago, when she presented an excellent paper on a method she has developed for optimal hand position on the clarinet. Well done, Dr. Rolf!!
Sherri and I were colleagues in the operating rooms in Billings, Montana, for many years. Always a delight to work with, she is a multiply-talented, civic-minded, delightful musician/physician.
I don’t know Dr. Rolf personally, but well done on her part!
I’ve worked under Maestro Johnson on numerous occasions. He’s an absolutely fabulous conductor, and I’m really glad this story had a happy ending!
Thanks Sheri! The GFSA considers ourselves VERY fortunate that you are part of our orchestra.
Thank all of you so much for your kind words.
I’m happy to report that Maestro Gordon Johnson is doing extremely well.
Very glad to hear that. I can think of several conductors who’d like to have you as a regular player. best wishes, NL
Sheri is a gem in many ways! So proud to be her MM teacher!