Met musicians mourn a long-serving violinist
mainThe death has been shared of Patmore Lewis, who joined the Metropolitan Opera orchestra in 1977. He was 69.
His fellow-musicians say: ‘He was humble and gracious, and somehow always made those around him feel good. His impact on everyone was such that we were always happy to see him, whether it was in the pit, the C level rehearsal room, or laughing with us in the cafeteria.
‘A warm and gentle soul was lost to us and we will never forget him.’
Yannick Nézet-Séguin adds: ‘Another sad and huge loss in our Met Orchestra family. RIP dear Patmore Lewis. I will never forget your smile, your kindness, your warmth, your dedication.’
UPDATE: Official Met posting: The entire Met family was saddened yesterday to learn of the passing of Patmore Lewis, a violinist in our orchestra for more than four decades. He was 69 years old. Patmore grew up in the Virgin Islands and first began performing with the Met Orchestra in the late 1970s, becoming a member of the pool second violin section in 1981. In addition to his work at the Met, he was an all-around musician and both wrote and played music in other idioms—from jazz to hip hop and Latin. He also gave a solo recital at Carnegie Hall in the 1990s. We send our condolences to all those who loved and admired Patmore and mourn the loss of a wonderful artist and colleague.
Very sad but is 3 years really long serving?
Now just take a deep breath and reflect, “Did I express sympathy for the loss of a fellow human being?”. There are times when we need to step back and think of others first. Death is one of those times.
RIP, Mr. Lewis.
With the Met from 1977 to 2020…..43 yrs
Actually 43 … my mistake. Yes that’s long serving and an amazing man. Very sad to lose him.
Joined Met Opera Orchestra in 1977. That’s 43 years.
Patmore Lewis was one of the first people I met when I moved to New York in 1978. He very generously gave me his only ticket to the dress rehearsal of opening night of the Met’s Tannhäuser, which remains one of the most incredible musical experiences of my life. I’m not sure why it says that he joined the orchestra in 2017, because he was definitely playing in 1978. RIP.
A man full of music,love and generosity. Desperately sad news…
Very saddened to read this. He was a nice man who was friendly to me when I didn’t know many other people and who never failed to smile at me in the hallways or cafetaria.
Patmore was a real sweetheart…RIP, Mr. Lewis.
Mistake fixed, apparently. By the time I saw it (11:05AM pacific) it said 1977.
R.I.P,Patmore Lewis.