The Munich principal cellist who lit up New York

The death has been published of Lutz Rath, artistic director of the Washington Square Music Festival. Who knew that he was once principal cellist of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra?

 
RATH–Ludwig. The Washington Square Music Festival notes with sadness the peaceful death of Artistic Director (since 2001) of Ludwig “Lutz” Rath, 78, in the arms of his loved ones in Southampton, NY on November 7. Born in a bomb shelter in Krefeld, Germany, Lutz was plucked by legendary cello pedagogue Janos Starker, diverting plans of completing medical training in the footsteps of his late father, lighting a creative path that brought him across the world performing and teaching music. Truly a Renaissance man, Lutz was a champion and lover of classical and contemporary music and art which he enthusiastically shared with our audiences. He served as cellist of the International String Quartet, principal cellist of the Munich Philharmonic and principal cellist of Orchestra of St. Luke’s. He served on the faculties at Brown University, University of Indiana (Bloomington) and Bennington College. Lutz was a bon vivant who will be missed by the many people among his friends, family and all of those he touched. Memorial date will be announced. He is survived by his partner Jenna Saint Pierre.