Shocking tragedy: Aspen is stricken by two student deaths

A statement by Aspen Music Festival and School, Colorado:

We are deeply saddened over the tragic loss of 2015 Aspen Music Festival and School students Alex Greene, trumpet, and Ben Darneille, tuba, who died in a car accident last night.

Both were members of the fellowship brass quintet Rendezvous Brass, which gave inspiring performances all summer, including in Harris Hall and atop Aspen Mountain. Alex closed his season with a beautiful performance of Mahler 5 in the Benedict Music Tent. Their tremendous talent was only overshadowed by their warm and generous spirits. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Alex’s and Ben’s families and friends, and to all the artist-faculty, students, and others whose lives were made richer by knowing these two young men.

UPDATE: Aspen director Alan Fletcher told local media that Alex played at brilliant Mahler 5th solo a few days before he died. It ‘made the whole piece,’ he said.