David Griggs-Janower, founding artistic director and conductor emeritus of Albany Pro Musica, and professor of Music at the University at Albany, brought his unique talents and artistry to thousands upon thousands of us in the Capital Region and beyond. He was, simply put, a major force in the world of choral music. And if there is one thing our dear David would have wished for us all, it is that the music would go on, that it would continue to inspire, excite and comfort.
David passed away Sunday, and we already miss him beyond words, and in so many different ways. Those fortunate enough to have sung under his direction in Albany Pro Musica, the University Chorale, the University at Albany Chamber Singers and so many other ensembles for more than three decades will miss his energy, his commitment to excellence in performance, his passion and his conviction that music can be transformative. Through his talents, through his caring and through his generosity of spirit, those of us privileged to have known him have, indeed, been transformed.
His singers and students of all ages have become more accomplished vocalists, more sensitive to the profound messages that great music can convey. His audiences have become more engaged listeners, enthralled by the beauty of the moment.
But, most of all, we have become better, more giving human beings for having known him. He has touched so many lives, in ways large and small.
Like so many others, I have been buoyed by his tenderness and concern at difficult moments in my life. And, like many others, I have also been brought firmly back to earth by his perceptiveness and wit — but always, always with a gentle touch. His sensitivity to the needs and the pain of other people was unparalleled. He knew the right words, and always said them at the right time, and in the right way.
As a musician, David was encyclopedic, but never arrogant, in his knowledge of the repertoire. His delight in conveying to the singers the meaning of the text and nuances of the score was palpable, as was his displeasure if he perceived a lack of engagement with the music. David had the rare ability to create an atmosphere at every concert of a shared journey, of an experience unique to that moment and to each member of the chorus and each member of the audience — intimate, meaningful and unforgettable. The music was the vehicle, and David, our beloved conductor, brought it to life and filled the hall with beauty and joy.
Throughout David's long illness, hundreds upon hundreds of his friends and colleagues from around the country, and beyond, wrote to thank him for being such a force in their lives, for enriching their journey and for caring so deeply. One especially touching tribute from a former student was entitled "Don't Wait: Tell Them." I know David agreed with this philosophy; indeed, he lived it. He never waited till "tomorrow" to extend his hand to others, to let them know what they meant to him. He freely shared his love, and that love came back to him many-fold.
So, David, while your passing has brought a stillness born of grief and loss, know that we all will, very soon, sing for you again — sing with the joy of having experienced your prodigious artistic talents; sing with the joy of having shared your delight in the beauty of music in all its forms; and sing with the joy of having known someone who cared so deeply and loved so well.
The music will go on, David, and it goes on for you.