We regret to report the death of Ton Hartsuiker, one on the leading interpreters of contemporary music in the Netherlands. He was 81.

pictured with his wife, Inge Fröhlich

After three seasons with a revitalised Seattle Symphony, the Russian-born Alexander Velinzon has announced his return to Boston. He was assistant concertmaster of the Boston Symphony for seven years before Seattle came calling.

We understand that Velinzon was the personal pick of music director Ludovic Morlot, selected above five internal and five external candidates. His tenure was unsettled by recent changes to the musicians’ contract and demands for a reaudition. He was facing a players’ vote on Friday, but quit an hour or two before the ballot was held.

His departure is a setback for Morlot, who said: ‘Alex is a wonderful artist. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to share his talents with our orchestra and community. I’m grateful for the many hours of music we made together, and sincerely wish him all the best for his future in Boston.’

UPDATE: Velinzon has remained throughout on the BSO roster and shuttled frequently back from Seattle.

Rob Knopper, percussionist of the Metropolitan Opera orchestra, writes:

Lessons are the cornerstone of your musical education. they’re the most important hour of your entire week. The people you took lessons with are on the first page of your freaking resume and at the end your bio, even if you already play with a top-5 orchestra!

Your entire college decision should be largely based on who you’re going to study with, people. I can’t stress this enough (how exactly should you choose a college? that’s a topic for another time.)

Ok, so you’ve arrived, you’re in school, and you’re taking these great lessons from your teacher. They’re expensive and so valuable that every minute is like pure gold. how do you get the most out of each and every minute of every lesson? Click here for answers.