Welcome to an online memorial space for Kjersten Oquist and Angela Svendsen.
A place of healing where their memory can be honored by those who knew and loved them.If you have a photo you would like to post and do not have a place to link it to online,
send it to me at nobleviola@gmail.com and I will host it and post a link on this board.To add a message, scroll down to the end of the page and click on "Share your remembrance".
If your browser hangs (takes a very long time to show that your entry has posted), do not despair! Simply go on to another page, or quit your browser. Your post has been submitted and will show up after the server catches up with the backlog (it is handling lots of other dreambooks at the same time). Do not try to post again, you will only end up with multiple duplicate entries. Thanks for your patience. -- Charles
Remembrances posted: 131.
| Name: | charles noble |
| E-mail address: | nobleviola@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://nobleviola.com |
| Comments: | I hope that this remembrance board helps with the terrible loss that all of us in the Vancouver/Portland/Salem/Eugene musical community have suffered. After the death of Marty Jennings, I found much solace in reading the memories and tributes of him that people from around the state wrote, and his family was deeply appreciative of the online memorial. So I offer this as a small token of my loss of two wonderful people and musicians. |
| Name: | Niel DePonte |
| E-mail address: | nbdstix@aol.com |
| Comments: | http://blog.oregonlive.com/classicalmusic/
A tribute to Kjersten Oquist and Angela Svendsen Posted by David Stabler February 13, 2007 09:28AM Niel DePonte was the first to call, Monday, with the tragic news of the two Portland musicians who died in a car accident on their way back from Eugene, Sunday. Kjersten Oquist a violist, and Angela Svendsen, a violinist, both played in the Oregon Ballet Theatre orchestra, as well as the Eugene Symphony. Oquist was also the librarian for the ballet orchestra, which DePonte conducts. He wrote this tribute to the two women, but through the sadness, he also describes in a powerful way what it's like to be a freelance musician. A Farewell To My Musicans, My Friends "I'd be happy to pick [the music] up on Monday at OBT or at the Schnitz. I'll be downtown at 11:00. Let me know." That e-mail was sent to me on Sunday, February 11th at 4:52 PM and is the last one I'll ever receive from Kjersten. Kjersten Oquist was my orchestra librarian for the Oregon Ballet Theatre (OBT) Orchestra, a respected member of its viola section, a wife, a mother, and a friend. She died Sunday night around 11 PM near Albany...a victim of yet another drunk driver on Oregon's highways, driving southbound in the northbound lane of I-5. Also killed in the crash was a first violinist from our orchestra, Angela Svendsen, also a wife, and a friend. Nearly killed, but miraculously spared, was Kelli Gronli, our Principal Oboe. All three musicians were returning from a rehearsal of the Eugene Symphony, where they occupied the Principal Viola, Principal Second Violin, and Principal Oboe chairs, respectively. That means they were great players and great leaders. These three colleagues are what we in the music business call freelance musicians. A freelancer's career is usually made up of playing in various orchestras, teaching students, perhaps teaching in schools, or getting involved in the everyday business of keeping an orchestra running by being its librarian for example, as Kjersten was. There is nothing a freelancer desires more than a " steady gig", one that comes with health insurance and a regular paycheck. But those jobs are few and far between. Not that Kjersten and Angela ever gave up that dream. In fact they embraced the job of becoming better musicians every day, hoping to move up in the ballet orchestra string sections, join the Oregon Symphony, or becoming principal chair players as they had become in Eugene by dint of their talent, tenacity and hard work. I know that they both auditioned at various times for chairs in the Oregon Symphony, seeking that elusive "steady gig" because smaller orchestras such as Eugene, OBT's Orchestra, and the Portland Opera Orchestra (in which they all played) in and of themselves cannot hire full time musicians, pay them a living wage and give them benefits. It is too expensive. That is a fact of life for a freelancer. But don't think that these artists were in any way less worthy than any of us who have been lucky enough to get a job in a full time orchestra. It often has more to do with it just "not being their day" at the once-every-3-year auditions for chairs in the "big" orchestra. And what Kjersten and Angela do between auditions? They played at your wedding, or the wedding of your daughter. They played at your mother's funeral, at your church on Easter Sunday in a "pick up band", as the vernacular goes. They provided background music at your company's reception, accompanied a local professional chorus, and taught your children how to play the violin. They made the musical community of Portland vibrant and viable. For without freelance artists, there wouldn't be enough competent musicians to perform at all the venues where we see and hear music...and so often take it for granted, or take for granted the artists who make it. Did you even notice the players at your last fancy fundraising gala? Did you thank them for playing for you? They are not just in it for the money, I assure you. No one is getting rich playing classical music in Portland as a freelancer. But each and every professional musician you see at a performance of any kind is offering you part of themselves, and doing it gladly. Because they love to make music. And they live to make music. Kjersten and Angela lived to make music...and they died to make music, in Eugene, at least in part because we as a community could not offer them enough employment at a high enough wage to keep them from having to make that four-hour round trip late at night many times each season. So the next time you, or someone you know, think that musicians are overpaid, or charge too much for your son's bar mitzvah, or think that they are playing for free because they must enjoy it so, or think that the arts don't matter so why pay to have them in the public schools, remember Kjersten and Angela. They lived to make you happy performing the music they loved up and down the I-5 corridor and beyond. They deserved so much more in life than what we paid them, given what we received from them. And they deserved so much more life. I know I shall miss them. And whether you know it or not, you shall miss them too. |
| Name: | Jillian Camwell |
| E-mail address: | jilliancamwell@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://jilloboe.blogspot.com |
| Comments: | I didn't know Kjersten and Angela as well as I would have liked. I was just getting to know Angela better when I left Eugene and moved to Iowa. She was such a lively woman! I was playing a one-year replacement position on third oboe and English horn, and not many string players would approach the wind 'sub'. Angela came right over on one of my first rehearsals, not to compliment me on my solo, but to say, "I had to come over here to tell you...those shoes are fabulous!!" That says a lot coming from a shoe fanatic!
As we grieve, we remember, and we smile. My deepest condolences to their families, and to my Oregon colleagues. And to Kelly, my friend, may you find strength and solace in the support around you. |
| Name: | Mark Robertson |
| E-mail address: | markrobertson720@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I went to Boston University with Kjersten and had been IMIng with her as recently as this fall. I know she loved her freelance life and her family. She was always up late doing bowings, copying, or practicing. For an orchestra to lose two colleagues at once because of drunk driving is unimaginable. My condolences to both families and to all the orchestras and communites affected by this tragic loss. |
| Name: | Irving G. Steinberg |
| E-mail address: | irving@planetirving.com |
| Comments: | I meet Kjersten in September of 1992 when I came to study at Boston University. We were housemates over in Brighton for most of the Fall into the Winter. We had fun times living together. I lost touch with her after she left Boston, unfortunately, but assumed she was doing well back in the Pacific Northwest. Hearing about this tragedy and its randomness is absolutely heartbreaking. I can only offer my profoundest condolences and thoughts to the families and friends in this terrible and dark hour. |
| Name: | Deborah Hayford |
| E-mail address: | family2plus7@comcast.net |
| Comments: | My 14 year old daughter, Sariah, took private violin lessons from Angela since June of 2005, when Angela made space for her. She will always remember Angela's instructions, encouragement, her pushing Sariah to do and be her best as a musician, and her happy outlook on life. It was a pleasure to sit in her living room and listen to her gently teaching my child and setting a great example of womanhood. She will be greatly missed. |
| Name: | Sara Greenleaf Seitz |
| E-mail address: | saragreenleaf@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | We did not know Kjersten and Angela personally, but my husband Noah is a cellist, and formerly played with the Eugene Symphony. We were at the scene of the crash on Sunday night. We feel that Kjersten's car saved our entire family's life. We were seconds behind them. Our hearts go out to the families and friends who are touched by this senseless trajedy. These were truly wonderful women. |
| Name: | Marcella Idsinga |
| E-mail address: | bigmarcella@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Angela was one of the best private music teachers I have ever met. She offered so much encouragement and motivation to her students...my younger brother was one of them. She made playing the violin come alive for him, and he is a better musician and human being because of her. She was always smiling and laughing when I saw her, and I am very sad that she is gone. It is good to know that in all of her students, the love of music that she grew in their hearts will carry on, and that that gift will keep giving and re-giving itself, and in that way she will live on. |
| Name: | Michelle Giansante |
| E-mail address: | music@indianaviolin.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.indianaviolin.com |
| Comments: | I have played alongside both of them, and I can't believe that they are now gone. They will be very sorely missed.
I was Angela's roommate and stand partner at the Cascade Festival one year, and have very some very fond memories. On the drive down, we had fun filling out the Mad Libs in my Delia's catalog by using the names of other musicians we know. Throughout our weeks there, she showed me how to make these cute little loop ponytails that I wore from then on for about a year! Also, we realized our mutual love for Grape-Nuts. And her fabulous shoes, of course, we must mention those. On one of our final performances, we realized with shock that we didn't have the encore piece on our stand! Angela ran backstage in the tent to grab it in the split seconds while the maestro chatted with the audience - and you could hear her shoes, CLOMP!CLOMP!CLOMP! as she threw the Dvorak on the stand in just the nick of time for the downbeat. Now THAT's style! And just one more shoe mention - on a PCO concert one year, the maestro asked us to wear a bit of red such as a scarf, tie, etc. Angela asked him if she could wear red shoes. He said, no, I don't think so. Well, our dear Angela wore them anyway - and looked FAB!!! Kjersten and Angela, we miss you both. Love, Michelle |
| Name: | Erin Gustafson |
| E-mail address: | eringustafson@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | I was in the same class at Boston University as Kjersten and we later ran in the same freelance circuit in Portland. My condolences go out to both of the families of these wonderful and dedicated musicians. I had made that drive to play in Eugene many times and now, as a freelancer in the NYC area, I am constantly on the roads late at night returning from one gig or another. I know how difficult and draining it can be to always be schlepping from one place to another for a job, and now we know how dangerous it is, as well. I am always thankful when I walk in the door safely at the end of a trip. Thank you to Charles and Niel for your beautiful tributes to the lives of these hard-working and talented women. No one works harder than freelancers and they will be greatly missed. |
| Name: | Mike Bruce |
| E-mail address: | mbruce333@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I went to school with Angela at CWU. We hung out with a lot of the same peeps and played in orchestra together. She was always a great person to be around and it makes me sad the I wont get to catch up with her. My thoughts and prayers go out.... |
| Name: | Heather Blackburn |
| E-mail address: | cellospud@gmail.com |
| Comments: | The first time I met Kjersten was playing the Cascade Festival. I immediately liked her since she was such a sass and had the best snappy retorts for everything. She also understood that a cheap $7 lipstick from the drugstore will solve most problems. Kjersten was a "go to" gal. I don't know how she organized the millions of things she did, and with such style and grace. We used to chat in the "viola nook" at the symphony during pieces from which we were reduced--just about life, auditions, and of course, shoes and hairstyles. She always said something sassy that made me laugh.
My first memory of Angela was her excitement at getting into the ballet orchestra. The first show, she wore a beautiful black tafetta gown that, I believe, her grandmother had made for her. I was in a lousy mood that day, but when I saw her in that dress, absolutely BEAMING with happiness, I couldn't help but to feel better myself. I remember we were excited about the "Shopaholic" books and discussed them vigorously during ballet intermissions. She was such a sweetheart. I still can't get my head around it. When I saw their pictures in the paper I thought they were going to be playing a concert. The world is a dimmer place without both of you guys. |
| Name: | Ian Johnston |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.obairlann.net/reaper/ |
| Comments: | I went to junior high and high school with Kjersten, two years behind her. I wrote the following entry in my journal on Monday evening:
Saying goodbye to someone I hardly knew I found out today, as described in this article, that my old friend Kjersten Oquist died yesterday. I first met Kjersten when I was in 7th grade. She was in 9th grade, and played the violin, although even at that age, she was starting to tend towards viola. We played together for a year in the school orchestra. The year ended, and she went on to the high school (I was in junior high, which goes from 7th to 9th grade, and the high school covered 10th through 12th). Despite being in different schools, we still saw each other on occasion. I know we met at the odd orchestra festival, and we may have attended each others' performances. A couple years passed in this fashion, as we met occasionally, and we maintained a sort of loose friendship. I always admired her, for her musical abilities, her intelligence, and increasingly for her sheer attractiveness. (As I've previously mentioned, I seem to have had something of a scattershot approach to crushes in my early "love" life, since they seemed to be confined solely to my own mind.) We met up again in high school. I was now in 10th grade, and she in 12th. We interacted through the orchestra, as well as somewhat through the drama department, and through the school paper. She was the editor of the school paper, and I quickly signed on to be Photographer General. Actually, I was just one of the photographers, the other was a woman whose name I've momentarily forgotten, who was also a senior. I credit her with teaching me a great deal about how to develop black and white film (yes children, back in the day when a camera used an arcane chemical process, rather than an arcane electronic one!). In any case, I wanted to be on the paper because they needed a photographer, and I was deeply into photography. It was a pleasant bonus that Kjersten was the editor. I could describe all sorts of things about being on the paper, but all of the memories of Kjersten are pleasant ones. She was a very forgiving boss (if boss is the right term). We would commonly stay late (I think we had a staff of about 5 people), getting the paper ready for the printers. This involved these obnoxious and universally-reviled wax applicators, which were supposed to roll sticky wax onto the back of copy, so it would stick to the layout sheets. Instead, they seemed to apply wax to anything which came within a few feet of them: clothing, hair, hands, shoes, all over the table, all over the layout paper, etc. At one point, I think we'd resorted to using the wax roller as a heating pot, and were just applying the wax with brushes. Throughout it all, Kjersten maintained a wry sense of humor that kept everyone going. There were tense moments, to be sure, but we were all having fun. It didn't take long for me to develop a full-blown Deep Crush Between late nights working on the newspaper (which was usually found littering the halls mere minutes after it came out) and orchestra, we saw a fair amount of each other. Looking back on it, we were actually pretty good friends, although the age gap was enough at the time to prevent me from thinking of her as one of my social circle. She was, but I wasn't experienced or mature enough yet to figure that out. We went to a few orchestra events off-site during that year, and I ended up getting a ride home from her at least one of those times. The only reason I remember this is something she said to me which caught me totally off guard. We were standing on either side of her car after the event, preparing to get in. Something had just happened which put me in a bad mood. Utilizing my new Adult Vocabulary, I exclamed "Fuck!" about whatever had just gone wrong. I looked back at her across the roof of the car. She smiled sweetly, and said, "Maybe later." She got in the car, and so did I. Utterly disarmed, I sat quietly for the trip home. (This may have been the moment when the mere Crush turned into a Deep Crush Kjersten had a face like those excessively cute Campbells cherubs from a contemporary ad campagin, cute dimples and all. Except, she looked more grown-up, as if one of the rosy-cheeked cherubs had gained about 12 years but kept the innocence. She had blond hair which fell straight down to her shoulders. I don't specifically recall her height, but it strikes me that she wasn't tall. Mostly, I was perpetually aware of the simple presence of her. I don't recall, now, if I attended her graduation or not. It seems likely I did, although it was probably in my capacity as a cellist, and I certainly don't have any reliable memories of the event. I had a surprising number of friends who were 2 years ahead of me, and it was within that circle that I found myself most comfortable. My own classmates were never very interesting, although that may have been a case of the grass looking greener over there. Fast forward many years, to 1997. I'd just graduated from college, and was living in Seattle. I got an invitation to Kjersten's wedding. I was pleased she still thought of me, and gladly attended. I was late for the majority of the service, probably because of traffic. She got married in Bellevue, which from Seattle might as well be divided by a stream of lava at some times of day, traffic can be so bad. But I was there for the recessional, and the reception afterwards. Of course, it was nearly impossible to get near her or the groom (who I didn't know), but I got enough face time to say congratulations and give her a hug. Practically speaking, that's the last time I saw Kjersten Oquist. About 4 years ago, I got a note from her, passed by my mom, that she'd like to hear from me, accompanied by a phone number. Perhaps a year later, I finally tried calling the number, but it rang with no answer, and I put it in the back of my mind to try later. Of course, now it's too late. I don't feel too bad about that, we chose our separate paths, and I don't think she felt neglected by my lack of contact (I didn't feel neglected by hers). I was pleased to know that she was working with my mom, and I'd hear of occasional sightings as they passed at rehearsals. As has happened with many people in my life, she drifted out of it, but I was still happy to know that she was around. Now, obviously, that happiness has drained away. When I read the article, it had been forwarded to me by my mom, with the simple title "Bad news multiplies." I read through the headline, thinking one of her orchestra companions (largely unknown to me) had passed away -- some of the players in orchestras can be quite elderly, and indeed that's sometimes how new players get openings to join orchestras. When I read the first paragraph or two though, a little chill came over me, and when I read Kjersten's name, I felt a physical shock, like I imagine it would feel if a ghost flew through you (see the Harry Potter movies). The conference call I was on became so much buzzing in the background as I read through the details of the article. So, a little bit too late, but, thank you Kjersten, for helping me get through the morass which was secondary education. I am very happy to have had you as a friend. I hope that, whatever happens after this life, it's pleasant for you; you deserve it. Fare well. |
| Name: | Renee |
| E-mail address: | renee@somethingsparkly.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.somethingsparkly.net |
| Comments: | I don't remember when I first met Kjersten. I was 1 year ahead of her at Woodinville High School, and we both played viola in the school orchestra. I always admired her skill and passion for music.
After I graduated, I lost touch with my high school classmates. But about 6 years ago, I saw Kjersten again, thanks to a mutual friend whose daughter was one of Kjersten's students. We caught up with each other's lives and through her, I was reconnected with some other high school friends. I wish that I had stayed in touch with Kjersten after that and gotten to know her again. |
| Name: | Ron Blessinger |
| E-mail address: | butthead@aracnet.com |
| Comments: | Angela and I played often for each other as we prepared for various auditions and performances. She was tenacious in pursuing her dreams, one of which was to play with the Oregon Symphony. I'll always remember how thrilled she was to get to sub with us for the first time, especially when things bug me at work.
She was dogged in her determination to do whatever it took to improve her playing. She was pure spirit, grit, passion, love, all rolled into one gracious, positive, winning human being. I knew Kjersten less well, but always knew that with her and Angela, you always knew that they were always approachable; they were grateful, humble artists who were always positive. It's just too soon for me to be able to get my mind around this awful new reality. Cascade Festival just won't be the same without Angela's Mary Kay table backstage. I think that's the most impressive thing about Angela and Kjersten; that no matter how badly they wanted to be professional players, they never let that distract them from how they treated people. God have mercy on the poor wretch that destroyed these lives; it's certainly more mercy than I can muster right now. |
| Name: | charles noble |
| E-mail address: | nobleviola@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.nobleviola.com/wordpress/ |
| Comments: | Angela Svendsen taking a bow with the Eugene Symphony.
photo courtesy of the Eugene Symphony. |
| Name: | Ann Medellin |
| E-mail address: | butthead@aractnet.com |
| Comments: | I just can't believe that Angela is gone. I have so much to share and tell her. I spent all Saturday with her, she and I chatting inbetween student performances in the back of the classroom while watching our students perform at Solo and Ensemble Festival. When I found out this tragedy on Monday I was inbetween my two teaching locations in Vancouver. I was devastated! I didn't know how I was going to face her many private violin students in my afternoon classes. It was a heavy day! I've known Angela since her first days in Vancouver- she came to me at the School of the Arts so excited about starting a private violin studio. She was fresh and right out of college. That's my initial relationship with Angela. She had her resume, business cards, and her calendar with her so she could schedule when she could meet all the students. I knew, right from the beginning, that she was meant and designed for teaching others the gift of violin and music. I have to tell you that Angela gave up much of herself for her students! She absolutely loved the world she lived in when she was able to problem solve or help a young budding student in her home. The students that Angela touched are so lucky to have known her- I am so grateful to have known Angela. She was not only my right-arm in helping build a string orchestra program in Vancouver, but a terrific colleague and friend. I have to say that my classroom environment is not the same right now- Angela's absence has devastated our music-making for the moment. I have a hard time knowing what to tell my students, they are sad and wishing that Angela would walk into the classroom at any moment. Many do not know the impact Angela had on the Vancouver Community- she was my number one teacher! Angela chaperoned for overnighters with me, she assisted with West-Side Story, she helped coach young chamber ensembles, and much, much, more! More than anything.... She touched the lives of some very young people who will forever remember her. I don't honestly know what I am going to do without Angela! I guess time will heal. Just yetserday, one of our joint students came to me and said, "I don't have my teacher anymore, what am I going to do?" With children, it will take time and understanding. I feel for Angela's husband, Eric. He is such a sweet man- holding strong at the current time. I realize Angela was a beautiful violin player, but I knew her most as an amazing teacher that did more than teach kids notes and rhythms, she was their guide and friend. On the side- I was hoping to order another lipstick from her too.
I didn't get to know Kirsten like I knew Angela. I am saddened for her family. Kirsten was super efficient and a solid musician. She was definitely an "in-command" kind of gal. I appreciated all her hard work. She will be missed- I do not look forward to the first rehearsal in the "pit" when Kirsten isn't taking her last sip of Coke from a pink straw to get in her seat on time. These two woman are amazing- I will miss them greatly!!! |
| Name: | Jason Schooler |
| E-mail address: | schoolj@ureach.com |
| Comments: | Kjersten and Angela. You will be missed! My heart goes out to Kjersten's and Angela's husbands and their families. May the Lord comfort you as only he can.
I will remember Kjersten, who often played with the OSO, not only as a talented musician but as a kind and caring person. Also, I was always impressed by her professionalism and wit. To her husband and family, my deepest condolences. Angela was such a bright and cheerful soul. I am sad that I did not get the opportunity to work with her more often. But the time I did get to know her was a joy and a blessing. She had such a bright and beautiful smile that automatically cheered you. I know that she was a terfific teacher, and her students will miss her terribly. My deepest condolances to Angela's husband and family. I will miss you both. |
| Name: | Shelley Mathewson |
| E-mail address: | shellvla@comcast.net |
| Comments: | To the families of Kjersten and Angela, I express my deepest sorrow at our loss of these two beautiful women, and may you feel comfort in knowing how they were loved by so many.
Kjersten and I were colleagues in the freelance world, sharing stories, wishes, hopes, sorrows, and a stand in the ballet orchestra for the last few years. She was a wonderful viola player and always wished to win that position as Assistant Principal Viola in the orchestra. Kjersten always greeted me with a joyful smile and was a very caring musician and woman. She was so very devoted to her husband and son ,and we often shared words of wisdom back and forth about raising a teenager. She was a tremendously hard worker; taking care of the ballet music, and dealing with situations as they arose in a graceful and humorous way. Her coke can would be waiting for her to grab a sip as she sat back down. My colleague and friend, you will be missed in my life forever. The tulip bulb you gave me for Christmas is waiting to break the surface and bloom...I thank you for that precious bulb. Angela I did not know well.........but shall always remember her sitting across from me in the ballet orchestra with her beautiful smile and her sense of grace and beauty in her choice of clothing and shoes for that day. She was a strong and beautiful violin player, and I was often impressed by her ability to sit Assistant Concertmaster in the ballet orchestra and do such a great job. Angela lived her life with great care and integrity. I am certain she was a fabulous violin teacher and may her love of music remain in the hearts of those she touched. |
| Name: | Jamie Puffer |
| E-mail address: | mezzodolce@gmail.com |
| Comments: | While I did not know Kjersten and Angela in person, the news of their tragic deaths still has touched me greatly. I am a musician myself (even started learning violin a few years ago at age 27), and I lived in the Portland area for seven years. Any deaths caused by the foolishness of a drunken driver are, of course, tragic. But to have those who were killed be classical symphony musicians is just horrendous and devestating. My thoughts are with their friends and family, and the students of these two musicians as well.
--Jamie Puffer, Alto Section Leader, Madison Symphony Chorus; Mezzo-Soprano, Madison Opera |
| Name: | Nancy Steinberg |
| E-mail address: | nsteinberg@charter.net |
| Comments: | I am a Board member of the Ernest Bloch Music Festival and the Newport Symphony. I did not know either of these young women, although Kjersten played in the Bloch Festival Orchestra last summer. I just wanted to send the Newport Symphony's deepest, deepest sympathies to all who knew these musicians, especially to the board and musicians of the Eugene Symphony. Their deaths have saddened the entire circle of musicians and others involved in the arts in Oregon. Many of the Newport Symphony's musicians commute from a distance to grace our community with their talent - please drive safely, all, and know that we appreciate what you do. |
| Name: | Cinda Redman |
| E-mail address: | cindapiano@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I watched the lovely young blond open her violin case. It was filled with the familiar photos, programs and stickers. (As a pianist I've always envied the instrumentalists ability to carry their lives with them.) She proceeded to work with her young students before they went in to play for possibly their first solo/ensemble. She laughed with them, hugged them and gave them many smiles. I enjoyed watching this lovely young woman in her beautiful lavender suit with the very high gorgeous alligator lavender shoes. She made a huge impression on me that I won't soon forget. I am extremely saddened to find out she was the newest member of Clark County Music Teachers Association and I had not had the privilege to get to know her. My prayers go out to the many friends, colleagues,students and families of Angela and Kjersten. They were loved by many and will never be forgotten. |
| Name: | Erik Svendsen |
| E-mail address: | erik.svendsen@mossadams.com |
| Comments: | I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone that has shown me and my family so much support during this terrible time. This is the hardest thing that I have ever had to go through, but the caring I have received has made it that much less difficult to bear.
Thank you very much for sharing your stories about Angela with me and everyone. Erik |
| Name: | Ken Shirk |
| E-mail address: | kshirk@afm99.org |
| Comments: | Bruce Fife, Wendy West and I spent Monday in the musicians' union office in a state of shock and sadness. And then anger. The lives of two young and vital members of our community cut suddenly short by something so unnecessary and ugly as a car crash. And a third member remaining to search for the answer to the unanswerable question that follows any survivor of such a horrible tragedy. And a musical community left to deal with the loss.
Their musicianship was well-known. But not many know how much Kjersten and Angela contributed to the world of music behind the scenes, and how much they will be missed at Local 99. Angela stepped up to guide the OBT orchestra committee for the past few years, when few others were willing to take on the unpopular work. When you're on an orchestra committee, you get praise for the good you do, criticism for the good you do, and indifference for the good you do. No matter to Angela, who wore her committee membership (and chairmanship) with the same confidence with which she played her violin, and with which she chose her shoes and concert gowns. If it needed to be done, she would get it done, even if no one else was there to help. If it needed to be said, she didn't shrink from saying it. And if it needed to be fixed, she would work for the quickest, most direct solution. If it was going to come with a lot of drippy emotional baggage, she would have none of it. For her, it seemed to me always that the good result was the most important, and that there was nothing to be gained by taking on the small human dramas that so often plague group deliberations. Bruce and I worked with Angela on the last two OBT contract negotiations. Her quick, clean and simple approach to the process was a breath of fresh air, her humor was a welcome relief, her willingness to call Bruce and me on our own failings when we needed most to hear it, and her dedication to the work proved a valuable asset for both of us, and we will miss her very much. Kjersten volunteered to join the board of the Music Education Assistance Project (MEAP) in 2005. MEAP is Local 99's little non-profit that funds private lessons for talented-but-financially-strapped public school music students. MEAP's biggest challenge has always been fundraising to meet the needs of the kids it supports. Kjersten walked in to her first meeting and immediately set forth a bunch of ideas on how MEAP could increase public awareness and donations. And then she volunteered to work on implementing her own ideas. Her energy and fresh persepctive was infectuous, and impelled MEAP's whole board to redouble its collective efforts. Result: 2005 and 2006 were MEAP's best fundraising years to date. Because a person like Kjersten, with nothing to gain for herself, already very busy in many other aspects of her life, stepped in and said, "Hey, we can *do* this!" And made it so. We need more of that kind of spirit in this world. I wish we still had hers. |
| Name: | Rebecca Olson |
| E-mail address: | rebeccadolson@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I went to college with Angela at CWU, and was one of the many musicians who played for her wedding. Angela was a beautiful person, inside and out. She was so enthusiastic, so full of life . . . She still continues to be an inspiration to me. I will definitely miss her! |
| Name: | Bill Svendsen |
| E-mail address: | bill@mdcresearch.com |
| Comments: | I'm Angels's father-in-law, and I just wanted to second Erik's thanks for the stories and tributes everyone has shared about Angela. The support our family has received has been incredible, and is much appreciated.
It's hard for me to remember a time when I didn't know Angela; I don't think I ever met anyone so completely alive. There's a line from the Legend of Provence that for me sums up Angela's gift to all of us - of being, for a brief time, a shining example of what's possible... "No star is ever lost we once have seen, We always may be what we might have been." |
| Name: | Kirsten Hisatomi |
| E-mail address: | orchestramgr@vancouversymphony.org |
| Comments: | Kj – am so glad that we had a nice time last weekend at your Superbowl party. Snacks and the Cokes were delicious – and just sitting, doing the gossip, and chatting about silly girl stuff couldn’t have been better.
I thank you for your advice – and sharing with me many a phone call regarding help in finding subs for VSO. I thank you for your playing – you were great to work with Ruslan, you saved my butt more times than I can remember with VSO, and it was always fun to play with Aurora. I thank you for your attempts at matchmaking – I still remember you telling a certain boy that “you can’t wait too long to call” and sure enough he did. I thank you for including me in a few of your Eugene trips – sure was fun to see Alan Parsons and am so glad we went together. I thank you for being a bright part of my life and for being my friend. Can’t believe you’re gone, but I know that you’re already busy taking care of business and running the show. Will expect the next time I see you that you’ve got a great orchestra up and making money! (playing lots of Brahms please, and some Shostakovich, for you know who…) Stay happy - you know, you can take a vacation now and then…and I’ll do my best to keep it going, down my way. We miss you. Much love, Kirta p.s. – thought of you and Shauna at my very first viola gig last Sunday – didn’t do too bad, although there were a few wrong notes, and who would guess my 4th finger could be so flat, like, all the time? |
| Name: | Theo Burke |
| E-mail address: | theob@spiritone.com |
| Comments: | Like Ken Shirk, I knew Kjersten mainly through meetings at the musicians union, but occasionally elsewhere. She was always full of energy, lively, a complete spark of life, and I always enjoyed her company, and her kindness. I am shocked and hurt, like the rest of you, at her and Angela's untimely passing.
The last time I saw Kjersten was a serendipitous lark--I was doing political canvassing for a candidate and friend of mine who was running for the state Legislature out in the East County area. One night, at the very end of my canvassing, I looked on my walking list, and there was Kjersten's familiar name at the next address, along with her husband's. I surprised them at their door, and we chatted about politics, and what we were each up to, and it was as lively as it always is with Kjersten. I am grateful for having met Collier, her husband, that evening. Of course, we chatted past "quitting time" for my canvassing, and I got back to the office late, but I wouldn't have changed it then or now. Kjersten will be sorely missed, for a long time, and my prayers are out for her, Collier, her son Christopher. I did not know Angela, but it is clear that she will be missed just as much, and my prayers go to her loved ones, too. |
| Name: | Paloma Griffin |
| E-mail address: | palomalot@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Though I did not know Kjersten and Angela well, I am grateful for all they gave of themselves to this very heartbroken music community.
...My thoughts and prayers are with Kelly and her family today. May you find strength and comfort in the people around you who love you so much. |
| Name: | Brenda Liu |
| E-mail address: | BRENDAHOBAI@aol.com |
| Comments: |
Kjersten and the her viola section mates in the pit at Oregon Ballet Theater, 2001 and 2002. |
| Name: | Jim Garrett |
| E-mail address: | garrett10431@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I had the pleasure of being Kjerstens stand partner in the VSO for a year. I will always have fond memories of that year as Kjersten helped me become a better musician. This girl didnt stop! The VSO became a better orchestra because of her and I will always be grateful for the time we shared. Next weeks rehearsals with VSO will be tough, but the show must go on and Kjersten wouldnt have it any other way. She was going to sub with us for this concert and we will all be thinking of her.
Gone, but never forgotten! |
| Name: | Tanya Couture |
| E-mail address: | tanyacouture@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Hello all,
It was such a shock to read about the tragedy that struck Angela and Kjersten. My thoughts and sympathies go out to their families and musical community for this incredible and sudden loss. I sat in Angela's section, the 2nd violin section, of the Eugene Symphony last season. I always wondered how she was able to be so on top of things after having to drive 4 hours night after night on top of her busy teaching schedule. She always was solid, really well prepared and positive no matter what. Besides that she kept the 2nd's morale on high with lively conversation with every member of the section. Her pumpkin cookies that she would bring every once in a while were great too! Kjersten was often conversational, and once when I was warming up before rehearsal she cracked that only dogs could hear what I was playing. That's a violin joke for you. They will be missed. |
| Name: | Carol Sindell |
| E-mail address: | sindellc@psu.edu |
| Comments: | Although I haven't been in touch with Kjersten or Angela for a number of years, I was stunned and saddened by this tragedy. I have fond memories of teaching Angela, who was particularly determined to improve her spiccato. She succeeded in that, and much more! My deepest sympathy goes out to the families and friends of these lovely young women. |
| Name: | John McMurtery |
| E-mail address: | mcmurter@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://johnmcmurtery.com |
| Comments: | I first met Angela in high school, when we roomed with the same host family at an All-State festival in Tacoma. I was immediately impressed with her passion for music and her thorough professionalism, even at that age. When we were in college together at CWU, she became one of my favorite chamber music partners. I'll never forget rehearsing the Mozart flute quartets with her at 7:30 in the morning, because that was the only time we could find to rehearse. And while I and the other musicians straggled in, barely making it on time, Angela had already been there for a half-hour warming up! She was the consummate professional, wanting to sound her best no matter what the circumstances.
Angela not only knew the right thing to say, but also when to say it. On one particular orchestra concert in which she was concertmaster, I had a flute solo to play that featured a difficult final note. As the concert neared, I was becoming more apprehensive about it, until Angela approached me at the dress rehearsal and said, "You know, I love the way you play that solo because I never have a doubt in my mind that the last note is going to be anything less than absolutely beautiful." Not only the way she said it, but WHEN she said it, gave me the confidence to play my best that night. I'll never be able to play that solo again without thinking of her. Thank you, Angela and Kjersten, for touching profoundly the lives of so many around you. My thoughts and prayers are with your husbands and families during this trying time. |
| Name: | Karyn Ellis |
| E-mail address: | clashfan2003@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I am Kjersten's sister-in-law. Like Angela's husband and father-in-law, I want to thank you for all these memories. It's comforting to know that others saw the great things about Kj, just as we did. She loved what she did, and pushed herself to be better--tendinitis be damned! But she was kind and funny and bright and we will all miss her. Thank you for showing me how loved she was in her profession. |
| Name: | Blayne Barnes |
| E-mail address: | blaynebarnes@msn.com |
| Comments: | this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to write...I am so heart-broken by the news of this tragedy. These two wonderful people had their lives cut short by the horrible act of that drunk-driving murderer. My deepest sympathies go out to Angela and Kjersten's families, friends, students and everyone else who had the good fortune of knowing them. My heart also goes out to Kelly and her family during this nightmare. I hope that she finds comfort knowing that so many people are thinking of her.
I played in many groups with Angela and Kjersten, but my fondest memories are of the hours and hours spent carpooling with them to Eugene and back. Laughing the whole time about absolutely everything, listening and singing along to hilarious mix cds that we made, discussing that night's rehearsal, snacking on edamame/apple slices and everything else that was in Angela's HUGE lunchbox. I have so many stories that I could share, but I don't know where to start. What I do know is that I will miss Angela's smile and her laugh (which were constant) and Kjersten's "sassy-ness," as someone else put it. I'm a firm believer that good can come out of the most horrific events----I hope that along with sharing our memories of Angela and Kjersten we can also educate people so we may prevent other senseless tragedies. I love and miss you both. Rest in Peace. |
| Name: | blayne barnes |
| Comments: | photos courtesy of blayne barnes:
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| Name: | Greg Ewer |
| E-mail address: | gpewer@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I don't remember the exact date, but it was sometime last spring that I first met Angela. The Oregon Symphony chartered a bus to Baker City for its annual community music partnership tour. Angela and I were both on it. A few hours into the ride, I walked up to the front of the bus to ask the driver a question. On the way back I passed some people making a fuss about something. Someone was trying on a black wool hat. Angela had just finished knitting it, and people were passing it around, each taking a turn posing in it. Eventually the hat ended up on my head. "Looks good on you, " Angela said. "Thanks," I answered. "How much to make me one as well?" She smiled. This was my first interaction with Angela.
We exchanged small talk throughout the tour. There was something so sincere and upbeat about the way she interacted with people. She was quickly becoming the kind of colleague we all look forward to running into. After the trip we all returned to our familiar routines. Baker City memories were soon relegated to the "tours" file in the brain. The Oregon Symphony season was winding to a close, and my mind was focused on summer plans. I got home from a rehearsal one day to find a manila envelope at my door. "Strange," I thought. I wasn't expecting anything. I picked it up and saw Angela's name on it. I opened it and stood there in disbelief. Angela had knitted me a black hat just like the one on the bus. I called her right away to say thank you...I got her voicemail. I never saw or spoke to Angela after the tour. I was sitting on the stage of the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall with all of my OSO colleagues when Peter Moore broke the news to us the other day. I just sat there. Thoughts of the tour, the bus, the high school gym, the hat, and of course Angela herself, raced through my mind. I frequently drive up to Mt. Hood to ski. Next time I go, I'll be wearing Angela's wool hat. Thanks Angela. Thanks for being the kind of person who keeps warm the ears of someone you hardly knew. |
| Name: | Phil Hansen |
| Comments: | My heartfelt condolences to the families, students, and colleagues of Kjersten and Angela.
Kjersten was utterly committed at all her wedding gigs. That exasperated look I got when I didn't see her left foot rise, indicating "stop at the next cadence," said how much she truly wanted to please the folks who hired us musicians - it may have been "another gig" but never one to be portrayed as such! Driving back to Portland with Kjersten afterward, she would always have kind words and astonishingly frank advice. What a genuinely sweet-hearted young woman. Angela was always a welcome bright spot at OBT. I did not get to perform close to her but her 110% energy was shining way across the pit. It is most pleasing to read how well involved she had become in representing her fellow musicians. Hanging out by the stairs at break with both her and Kjersten contained many a hearty laugh. |
| Name: | Niel DePonte |
| E-mail address: | nbdstix@aol.com |
| Comments: | It helped me to write this some years ago after a family tragedy. I hope it may help some of you to read it. I post it in loving memory of Angela and Kjersten, remembering that they are still with me in my heart.
CELEBRATION OF THE SOUL The mysteries of God’s great plan for each of us are hard to know. We spend our lives in search for truths, from every Spring to every snow, asking why what is, is so- and knowing we might never know. But past the mind and through the heart we find the soul, the very part that God, in all his wisdom, feels is that which speaks to us about what’s real - and what is not. About the truths of why we’re here, though lives may only last a year, or less. The soft caress of souls made flesh is only but one way to touch each other, as God wills, so that the earthly ills that seem to come when least we think they should, are softened by the bonded-link of family and friends and kin. Each link so strong that even only touching once, two souls connect and make the chain one linkage longer. Grief nor pain defeats that link and all it holds. It’s influence upon us molds the lives we lead and how we see our earthbound, small reality. For long unto the mists of time the bonds we form when we touch life: the bonds a husband forms with wife - or wife with child, or child with brother, sister, mother- the bonds we form when, in our space, arrives another of our race, or even when we touch a plant or any living thing, we can’t deny the knowing that we feel the bond of souls, so very real. And every touch, however brief, of life doth give our souls relief and cheer, to know that others know our souls. Our fear of death is superseded, year by year, as ever clearer is our sense that souls we’ve touched are recompense for earthbound pain. That all the gain of wealth or place have little meaning. Only by the grace of God are souls made flesh so that we might, in hopeful morn’ or mournful night, complete these bonds, these bonds of soul, these bonds which make frail humans whole, and transcend time, as well as space, and help us see God’s loving face. And so we celebrate the soul: the only source of truth and love; the vehicle which God above hath given us, to let us touch each other in wondrous ways which words nor time can measure, the soul: which joins us to his plan, though often, in that we are man, we know both pain and pleasure. The greatest truth which we can know, no matter how we think, is this (perhaps our truest goal): that found in touch of soul to soul, however brief, no matter toll, is our eternal link. 5/3/97 |
| Name: | Lisa Hansen |
| E-mail address: | asiln28@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://asiln28.blogspot.com |
| Comments: | It's now Friday, and I still can't understand or really acknowledge that this tragedy happened. My heart, thoughts, and best wishes go out to Angela's and Kjersten's families. Both were smart, beautiful women, and fantastic musicians. I had great respect for both because of their wonderful attitudes. The life of a freelance musician is not easy, and I can't remember ever seeing them in bad moods. They will forever be a source of inspiration... |
| Name: | Barbara Johnston |
| E-mail address: | k7cej@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I first knew Kjersten when she was a high school student, playing in the Woodinville High School orchestra with my son, Ian (see his remembrance elsewhere in this Dreambook). Kjersten was a shining light, always with a smile for everyone. I was surprised and delighted when she and I turned up together, later in Portland, playing various free lance gigs, including first (and most recently) Sinfonia Concertante Orchestra. She was the talented player who was the fulfillment of the promise we saw in high school. I enjoyed hearing her talk about her loves -- Collier and Chris. She still always had a smile for everyone, and she will be very sorely missed. |
| Name: | Jerry Bobbe |
| E-mail address: | jbobbe@comcast.net |
| Comments: | It is utterly heartbreaking to lose two such lovely young women in the prime of their lives. The tragedy was both completely unnecessary and shockingly unbelievable. While I did not know Angela, I did many times have the total pleasure of "working" with Kjersten. It was always great to see her and to hear her music. Her utter competence and non-stop smile always made even the worst gig bearable. For that I thank her, and I will always treasure her memory. My condolences go out to Collier, Erik, and the children. Rest in peace dear Kjersten and Angela, and forever enjoy leading the sections in your Heavenly Orchestra. |
| Name: | mary rowell |
| E-mail address: | violinduets@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I've known angela since the first year she moved here. We've gigged together on and off ever since. We've played on the street together, I've helped at a few of her recitals, and we go out to lunch at least once every 2 months. in fact, we were supposed to go out this week or the next to celebrate our birthdays.
The most current memories are those of the carpool rides to eugene. I think angela and I pooled together for 5 years. I think Kjersten and Kelly were in the pool at least 2 of those years. like blayne, I remember the snacks, the wacky angela mixes and laughing. One night, I can't remember who was all in the car with us, but Angela and I tried to sing all the suzuki books. we got up to the Bach Double but it kinda crashed and burned halfway through. we had so much fun on the drives. Angela was totally devoted to music. She loved teaching and loved her students. She also loved her job playing in Eugene. She did an awesome job. She once confided in me that she thought rhythm was one of her weakest things, but you'd never know it when she'd lead her section. Her rhythm was great. I remember when we did Rite of Spring, she had a copy of the score that she had studied! talk about being prepared! Most of all, though, Angela was my friend. I will miss her. As I look around in my studio, I actually see the influence of Angela all around - from music she's given me, favorite books we've read and discussed, to photos I have of her in my case, to techniques and tricks we've shared about teaching. Angela, you went way too soon. |
| Name: | Andrew Kolb |
| E-mail address: | aklob@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | As I write this, I am listening on the radio to Mozart’s Symphonie Concertante for Violin and Viola, a piece requested by a listener in remembrance of Kjersten and Angela. This is one of many tributes paid by so many people in Eugene mourning the loss of our beloved and respected Eugene Symphony Principals.
My wife and I had the unique honor to pay tribute to Angela and Kjersten twofold last night, as I played with the ESO and my wife, Amy, played with the Portland Opera—both performances dedicated to Angela and Kjersten. Their lives impacted so many. I will miss Kjersten’s smile, and her leadership. I will miss our always amiable quibbling over bowings during rehearsals. I will always remember her beautiful solo in “There’s a Place for Us” in Berstein’s West Side Story, and her perfectly annoying “dog barking” in Spring from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. I will miss Angela’s radiant optimism, leadership and her unforgettable fashion and glamour. I will always remember her beautiful “bird calls” in Spring from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and what a “tour-de-force” she was in leading her section through Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, a piece she dearly loved. I am a better person to have known and worked with these amazing women. |
| Name: | Jennifer Louie |
| E-mail address: | tewkam@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I am mourning the loss of Kjersten and Angela about 2500 miles away.
I met Angela at the section violin audition for the Oregon Symphony last April. While waiting between rounds we talked. It turns out that we had participated in several high school music festivals. I am a graduate of Seattle's Garfield HS and also a graduate of Western Washington University. I was so excited that Angela, like me graduated from a similar program, Central Washington, a good solid strings program, but one where you don't see many music graduates taking national auditions. She was curious about why I moved to the South to perform professionally and how I had many performances but not as many students. I told her that I was envious that she had so many students. While I have over sixty performances a year, I would love to have more students. Angela was very sucessful as freelance musician as well as a music teacher, given the cutthroat competition in the Northwest. I wish that I had gotten to know her better and have met Kjersten. I have said several prayers for the families involved and that they are with God. Jennifer Louie Tuscaloosa, Alabama Member of Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra and Ohio Light Opera |
| Name: | Sue Svendsen |
| E-mail address: | sue_svendsen@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I am Angela's step mother-in-law. We have been reading your entries through tears, sobs, warmth and the occasional giggle. She and I were more sisters and pals, than in-laws. I know so much of all of you from her gushing praise. I find comfort in knowing that you don't talk a person who's soul longs to climb mountains into staying safe and warm in the cabin.
Not only do we have a huge hole in our hearts, but the world has a huge hole in it. Please continue to shine and attempt to fill that abyss. |
| Name: | Sara LaPlante |
| E-mail address: | sarasmiles@gmail.com |
| Comments: | I haven't talked to Angela since high school, but I can still hear her voice and her giggle and see her sitting in her chair in our school orchestra, kicking her feet back and forth. She was always so incredibly sweet to me and I really looked up to her.
My heart aches for those of you who knew her better. May God comfort you and help you through this loss. I miss you, Angela. Sara |
| Name: | Ian Harris ( age 11 ) |
| E-mail address: | HarrisStreamServices@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Kjersten was very dear to me and she always loved my piano playing. I admire her today and respect her. I met her in Coos Bay at the Oregon Coast Music Festival. My mom and I were very good friends of hers. I wrote a song on February 13, 2007 for her. It is called "Scream at The Top of My Lungs". Kjersten was very funny and a very good violist. I know that she is going to heaven.
I didn't know Angela but I know tht she will go to heaven also. |
| Name: | Rodica Filipoi Jeffrey |
| E-mail address: | rodicafilipoi@gmail.com |
| Comments: | Angela epitomizes to me someone who adopted the community where she chose to live and made every effort to contribute to it not only as a professional musician but also as a person. I have always admired and respected her for that. She took tremendous pride in the positions she held with notable ensembles here in the area, and worked hard to be a leader in them. As a violin teacher and performer, Angela created a career that had integrity, substance, value, and artistic satisfaction. As a result, her life seemed to be brimming over with the richness of many intangible rewards.
The musical community feels such a loss right now, in part because our profession is such a personal thing, and it draws us together as a family. It is especially sad to see two friends gone before their full potential was realized. Angela seemed to truly enjoy everything she was involved in; she had such a great energy and positive attitude, and was lots of fun to be around. Not that she didn’t get frustrated at times, but any slight grumbling would be mixed in with cracking a joke. I will think of her often, and am inspired by her ambition, tenacity, and dedication. I wish she and I could continue on our musical paths as friends, and perform together in an ensemble again. There are countless things I will miss, like Angela's winks across the violin section, or her awesome trick where her eyebrows raced up and down along with that knowing "can-you-believe-that-just-happened-in-rehearsal?" look, and the grin that came along with it. I will miss the surprise candies and goodies, tied with a ribbon, which came in my neat little bag of Mary Kay purchases. I will also miss watching her make superhuman use of her time, writing cards during Nutcracker concert breaks. I carpooled with Angela to a few Eugene Symphony rehearsals in 2005, and from those rides I have a mental snapshot image that makes me smile. On her car dashboard were two objects that stood out to me: A pink frilly cell phone holder in the shape of (what else!?!) a high-heeled shoe. Right next to it, a small, oddly funny 3-inch tall skeleton-mariachi-violinist-man. Only Angela could pull off that combination. Thank you, Angela, for being a great friend and for your sparkling personality. I miss you, and wish I hadn't taken for granted that you would pick up the phone the next time I called to catch up. Kjersten, I didn’t know you as well as I would have liked. Reading the tributes and learning about your life makes me wish even more that I had had the chance. My thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the husbands, families and friends of Angela and Kjersten. And to Kelly in this difficult time, I send my love and support. My thoughts are with you. |
| Name: | Tammy (Rotz) Meredith |
| E-mail address: | tamarameredith@hotmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://tamarameredith.blogspot.com |
| Comments: | I was blessed to have worked, taught, played, and lived with Angela while we were students at CWU. Her passion for life was infectious--I always felt honored to be included in her circle of friends. Some of my fondest memories of undergrad include our late nights--downing pizza, watching Beavis and Butthead, and attempting to reduce portions of the Mozart Requiem to "3-2-1" in protest of our Schenkerian Analysis class. She was as devoted to her students as they were enamored of her, and as concert master of the CWU orchestra she both inspired and entertained.
To both Angela and Kjersten's families--our prayers are with you all. |
| Name: | Bill Svendsen |
| E-mail address: | bill@mdcresearch.com |
| Comments: | Though Angela's obituary has run in the Columbian, the Oregonian hasn't yet published it, so I thought that those of you in Oregon should know the schedule for her memorial.
It will be held Sunday, February 25th at 1:00 PM at the Vancouver School of Arts and Academics, located at 3101 Main, Vancouver, Washington. Take the 4th Plain exit off of I-5 North, go left on Fourth Plain to Main, and right on Main to the school There will be overflow parking available at the church next door after 12:30. We look forward to seeing you all & helping us to remember Angela. |
| Name: | Alyson Williams |
| E-mail address: | alygal@yahoo.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.ccecolumbia.org/ |
| Comments: | Our deep sympathy and condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of Angela and Kjersten. It is lovely to read all the comments and get a full picture of the impact these two young woman had on their communities.
Our daughter, age 15, has been one of Angela's students for the last few years. One could not have asked for a better private teacher for a teenage girl musician. Angela was disciplined and professional yet full of wit and comeraderie with her students. She was a fabulous role model. That kind of teacher-student relationship will not be easy to duplicate or replace. We don't know what to do now. I can still hear Angela's voice; "Sweet!", "Awesome work!" to our daughter, as I sat in her living room with her three little dogs. We were also one of her Mary Kay experiments, and our daughter would make beaded earrings for her. In addition to helping our daughter in Solo Ensemble and school performances, Angela would come to our Irish ceili dances in Vancouver and play along with the ceili musicians when her schedule permitted. We had been planning an Irish Fiddle workshop for later this spring, with Angela teaching. Oh, Angela, you will be so missed. |
| Name: | charles noble |
| E-mail address: | nobleviola@gmail.com |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.nobleviola.com/wordpress/ |
| Comments: | Here is the obituary from the Columbian:
SVENDSEN, ANGELA JOYCE Angela Joyce Svendsen, 31, passed away February 11, 2007. She was born January 28, 1976 in Bellevue, WA, to Gordon and Kathy Schuster. Angela was an extremely devoted wife, daughter, sister, and friend. As a violin teacher, Angela loved her students and drew limitless pride at watching them grow into accomplished musicians and people. She also enjoyed her time in the Eugene Symphony and the Oregon Ballet Theatre Orchestra. She is deeply loved and admired and will be truly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Erik, and her three cherished pupplies- Johan, Dante, and Ren. Other family members include brothers, Bryan and Joshua and sister, Rebecca; brothers-in-law, Carl, Christopher, and Aaron; Sister-in-law, Brandis and nephew, Nick; father and mother, Gordon and Kathy; fathers-in-law, Bill and Scott, and mothers-in-law, Teri and Sue. A Celebration of Life will be held February 25, 2007, 1:00pm, at Vancouver School of Arts and Academics in Vancouver, WA. Anyone who feels moved to do so, please bring your violin and accompany us in the playing of "Twinkle". Donations may be made to: "Angela Svendsen Memorial Scholarship Fund" at Riverview Community Bank. Published in the Columbian on 02/15/2007 |
| Name: | Eric Cosgrove |
| E-mail address: | EricyJenny@comcast.net |
| Comments: | Nearly every significant adolescent memory of mine is somehow intertwined with Kjersten, and her loss is difficult to believe. We both began playing violin in the fourth grade together, grew up attending the same classes, the same music groups, the same group of friends, from grade school through high school graduation and a little bit beyond. We both enjoyed a good competition and challenge, whether it was a better chair in the orchestra, a better grade in class, a more clever one-liner - and since we shared so many of the same classes, we often were competing against eachother. Throughout, we kept a good sense of humor, and had a good friendship.
After high school, we each went our different ways. I would hear about Kjersten through newspaper articles, on symphony rosters, and through mutual friends. I admire Kjersten for making music her life. She was so talented in so many ways. The fact that she chose music as her profession and life over more lucrative and easier careers, says a lot about her. She stayed true to her love. A musical performance lasts but a few minutes, yet touches the soul and spirit of all who took the time to listen and participate. The final chord resonates through the hall, and the echo eventually comes to an end, but the memory written on our spirit and soul by the performance is never lost or forgotten. Thank you Kjersten for performing so well. I am thankful I took the time to listen to and participate in part of your life, and I thank you for having been a part of mine. You are remembered well. |
| Name: | Patrick Campbell |
| E-mail address: | soupdoc@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | I did not know Kjersten or Angela, but as an ex-violist who grew up in Portland, playing in the Portland Junior Symphony, now working as a physician at Sacred Heart in Eugene, this tragic story touched me very deeply. Reading in the Oregonian about the tribute at the ESO concert this week brought tears to my eyes. My heart goes out to all of the fellow musicians, students, friends, and family members of these two talented, beautiful, and strong women suddenly taken in the prime of life. |
| Name: | Joy Fabos |
| E-mail address: | jcfabos@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I write this through tears after having read all the beautiful and touching tributes everyone else posted. I am completely at a loss over this tragedy. I am so far away from Portland at the moment, and yet feel the sorrow and the gaping hole left in the musical community very deeply, even from this distance.
Kjersten and Angela were such bright, friendly people. I cannot believe that I will not run into them at David Kerr, or at the next audition, or at VSO rehearsal, or anywhere. I saw Kjersten most recently at my Holiday Party and she was so warm and genuine and funny. I finally got to meet Collier, and looked forward to getting to know both of them better the next time I was settled in Portland for awhile. This news came as such a shock, and as everyone is, I am dealing with it slowly. My heart goes out to their families and friends- to their students and other colleagues. Although with Kjersten and Anglela, I think colleague and friend are one and the same. As we all deal with this loss and thoughts of our beloved friends float through our minds at strange times, I wanted to share one that made me smile through the pain... I was playing "The Beautiful Blue Danube" Waltz on tour in some tiny town in Canada this past week, and I thought "at least Kjersten and Angela will never have to play this annoying waltz rhythm again!" An Irish Blessing May the road rise to meet you May the wind be always at your back The sunshine warm upon your face The wind fall soft upon your skin And until we meet again May God hold you in the palm of His hand May the Lord bless you and keep you May the Lord cause his face to shine upon you And give you peace |
| Name: | John Leamy |
| E-mail address: | jleamy3@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I met Kjersten and her family 5 years ago through business services provided to Aurora Strings. I then was also able to provide Real Estae services to Kjersten and Collier to sell their home and get them into their new home.
Kjersten was very great to work with and always amazed me how she was able to be so good at what she did and so involved. Music was her life yet her family was so important to her. I was shocked, saddened Monday when I found out about this horrific event. Kjersten, Collier and Chris were so close and I can only imagine the pain they are going through. My prayers are with them at this time of grief. |
| Name: | sherrill roberts |
| E-mail address: | shrobert@linfield.edu |
| Comments: | February 13, 2007
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I learned the horrible news today that the music world has lost two great musicians and friends, Angela Svendsen and Kjersten Oquist. I cannot imagine how devastating this loss must be not only for their families but also for all of you, their orchestra family. Please know that we here in Michigan are thinking of all of you and sending our deepest sympathies. May the music that you make this season in Portland be a celebration of the lives of your dear friends, Angela and Kjersten. Most Sincerely, Kathleen Grimes Principal Viola, Ann Arbor Symphony Vice President, ROPA ************************************************************************ The Knoxville Symphony is so sorry for your tragic loss. Please give our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Angela and Kjersten, and to the Portland community. Our thoughts are with all of you as you attempt to cope with such a profound loss. Knoxville, Tennessee ************************************************************************ On behalf of the members of the Minnesota Opera Orchestra, I extend our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Kjersten and Angela. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Minneapolis, Minnesota ************************************************************************ On behalf of the musicians of the Grand Rapids Symphony, please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of your colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers go out you and the families at this tragic time. Grand Rapids, Michigan ************************************************************************ The musicians of the Huntsville Symphony wish to extend our deepest sympathy following the deaths of Angela and Kjersten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Huntsville, Alabama ************************************************************************ The musicians of the Palm Beach Opera send their deepest sympathy in your time of grieving. May the music you continue to create be imbued with the spirit of Kjersten and Angela. Palm Beach, Florida ************************************************************************ The musicians of the Michigan Opera Theatre Orchestra wish to express their heartfelt sympathy and prayers in light of this senseless tragedy. We mourn this terrible loss to pray that you may find comfort in this time of grief. ************************************************************************ We always get angry when we hear about an accident involving a drunk driver, but this one involving fellow musicians is especially tragic. We in the Hartford Symphony feel so sorry about the whole situation and extend our sympathy to the orchestra and to the families of Angela and Kjersten. Hartford, Connecticut ************************************************************************ Please accept the heartfelt sympathy of the musicians of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Orchestra and Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra. Musician colleagues aren't just co-workers: they're also friends who share something more profound than just a workplace. We know you are all devastated by this loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and their families. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania ************************************************************************ On behalf of the Hartford Symphony, I send condolences. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry that you've lost two members of your orchestra family so tragically. Hartford, Connecticut ************************************************************************ On behalf of the members of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra "family", we are so sorry for the loss of two of the members of your orchestra! We understand how such a thing affects the group as a whole as we are a close-knit group of people! Please express our condolences to your orchestra from their friends in the south! Jackson, Mississippi ************************************************************************ Your news has shocked us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. The loss of your colleagues is a loss to us all. Arizona Opera Orchestra. *********************************************************************** Please accept the heartfelt condolences of the members of the Long Island Philharmonic, New York *********************************************************************** Our deepest sympathies to you all for the terrible loss of Angela and Kjersten. May you all find peace and comfort. Our prayers are with you. Albany Symphony, New York ************************************************************************ May I extend heartfelt sympathy to you in your time of grief. We weep for and with you. God grant you peace in your mourning. Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Indiana ************************************************************************ On behalf of all the members of the Richardson Symphony Orchestra, I would like to express my condolences to the loss of your two musicians in Oregon. It certainly is a reminder of the risks we take as musicians in the Freeway Philharmonic Orchestras. Richardson Symphony, Texas *********************************************************************** On behalf of the members of the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra, I would like to express our condolences for the loss of your two fellow musicians in Portland. Please give our heartfelt condolences to the Portland orchestras, and the families of Angela and Kjersten. I pray that music will provide some solace to you in this time of grief. Fresno Philharmonic, California On behalf of the California Symphony may I extend our deepest condolences for the loss of your friends in this tragic accident. We send our thoughts and prayers to you, and for Kjersten's and Angela's families, in this time of unexpected grief. San Francisco, California |
| Name: | Colleen Wheeler |
| E-mail address: | cwviolin@msn.com |
| Comments: | The memorial service for Kjersten was beautiful. I felt comfort looking around the room seeing so many people from all the many facets of her life sharing in her rememberence.
I first met Kjersten when she played in the Portland Opera for the first time. I still can picture the petite blond walking on her toes through the hallways. Kjersten was always full of questions, wanting to do everything right. I answered what I could and sent to others for the rest of her answers. At the next rehearsal she couldn't remember my name so she started calling my "Red" for my red hair. It stuck and that was what she called me for the last 10 years. She always said it with her half smirk smile. It made me laugh. Several years ago I had the honor of sharing a stand with Angela in the opera pit. What a riot. When there was a lull in the rehearsal, or someone started yawning, out came Angela's magic bag of candy. She seemed to have an endless supply. I admire her gift of teaching. I know there are a lot of budding violinists lives that she touched and helped mold. The loss of these two bright, energetic, loving people is a devestating tragdey. The anger I felt at their loss is only tempered by Kjersten's and Angela's love for life and how they lived it as fully and completely as anyone could. My heartfelt condolences to their families and friends who's lives have a large hole. While the void will never be filled, Kjersten and Angela will never be forgotten. |
| Name: | Cathy (Oldham) Bell |
| E-mail address: | catherine.bell@earthlink.net |
| Comments: | When I first heard the news reports on Monday, they weren't naming the victims, only saying they were two Eugene Symphony players commuting from the Portland area. I was sure I would know them....
I couldn't imagine that it would be Kjersten. I met Kjersten the day she and I auditioned for the Ballet Orchestra on the same day back in the early 90's, and we met again at a Portland Opera audition shortly after. Then I played with her in both groups until I had to leave in 2001 due to illness. Kjersten was such a capable and level headed girl. She was ALL the wonderful things everybody else is saying about her. I really can't believe that she is gone. I hope it will help her family to know how much she was loved and respected by everybody who knew her. |
| Name: | Julie Brown |
| E-mail address: | julesbe40@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I wish to extend my deepest condolences to Collier and Christopher. I've only known Kjersten about 8 months as she taught my son Viola lessons. I loved to hear her play for my son when he was struggling with a piece. I appreciated her patience, humor and strong guidance with my son. It made me so proud when my son and Kjersten played together. I couldn't of wished for a better teacher for my son's first experience with music. We will never forget her.
Julie Brown and son James Brown |
| Name: | Gretchen Tucker |
| E-mail address: | gretchentucker@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I always thought of Angela as my best friend. We as people are so different yet share many things in common. We arrived in town in the same year and kept showing up at the same auditions and became good aquaintances. Carpooling to Eugene together revealed our deeper selves where we discovered that we had sooo much in common. It was nice for both of us to talk about life and to see our different perspectives. Recently I would stop at her house while going from one teaching location to the next to grab a cup of her famous tea or coffee...she would be teaching but that did not mean the welcome sign was down...sometimes I went in and out without her ever pausing her teaching. I look in my closet and see all the outfits she helped me put together, the clothes I bought when she was with me and feel both comfort and sadness. I accused her of brainwashing my daughter (not even 2 yet) into having a sense of fashion (has to have clothes that match and LOVES shoes). She only babysat Sara a couple of times at most....one of those times was so my husband and I could do a LONG ride on our tandem on our anniversary (I think Erik still remembers that day well).
I have been in a state of denial all week. Thank you to all of Kjerstens loved ones for the wonderful memorial which has allowed me to finally acknowledge the truth and quit running from the pain. |
| Name: | Tonya McQuistan- Nichols |
| E-mail address: | TONYANICOLS@ADELPHIA.NET |
| Comments: | When I first moved to Woodinville, I'd struggled to get out of an unmapped town in Nebraska. Before that, I was from Southern California. Our family first set our sites on Woodinville, Washington, but ended up detoured to the Midwest. The culture shock of moving to a Midwest town so small your basketball coach is also the town mayor was numbing. I never fully 'fit in' because I didn't want to be 'in', I wanted OUT!! I felt like the Israelites sent into the desert away from the Promised Land. I put a stuffed Falcon on my dresser and dreamed for two years of being a Woodinville Falcon someday.
When I finally arrived, my first class was Biology and I walked in and handed the teacher my admit slip. She politely turned and asked where I was from, to which I answered, "Nebraska." Then, turning to the class she said, "Class, this is Tonya-from-Nebraska." The whole class, as if on cue, chorused, "Hi, Tonya-from-Nebraska!!!" The name stuck. For the first year and a half, I was "Tonya-from- Nebraska." No one meant it to be mean. It was purely funny, but I was constantly reminded of where I never wanted to go in the first place, and frustrated they didn't understand, "I WASN"T FROM THERE!!" My first lasting impression of Kjersten Oquist happened one day, that first month, when she perceived my wince at the name. "You must not have loved Nebraska," she said sweetly. I didn't look up from our work table but said, "I really hated being stuck there." From then on, she called me "Tonya-set free-from-Nebraska" and just plain "Tonya." She always said it with a warm smile that said, "Welcome home, friend." And thus begins my memory of Kjersten. Kjersten and I took most of the same classes offered on our honors track. In exception, she persued yearbook and music while I cast my lot with basketball (hey, I was 6'1" and formerly coached by a town mayor), and drama. Owing to many shared friends, I ended up in the darkroom helping develop film, or on an occasional late night layout deadline, while she got pulled in with the stage set to solve all manner of crisis and support her friends by serving as an astoundingly able props mistress. Kjersten turned in her English papers on time, chugged her way smiling through math, never let her chemistry partners down, organized history study sessions, and was otherwise entirely reliable. If Kjersten was a part of "it," "it" would get done and done well. I would be genuinely surprised to hear if she has more than three parking tickets worth of rule breaking to show for her twenty years of driving!! Kjersten is the sort of soul that is easily taken for granted. She is warm. Granted. She is funny. Granted. She is stable. Granted. She is refreshingly genuine. Granted. She takes all our issues and seldom burdens us with any of her own. Granted. She will do what is right without holding it against us when we get it wrong. Granted. I have searched my remembrances of her for a week now, and I can not think of a single time I heard her participate in exposing, illuminating, mocking, or otherwise enjoying another person's weakness. She was simply too classy to participate in gossip or negative discussion. She was also sassy enough (which let us know she was bright enough) to keep up, and opted out by choice. That is leadership. She called us to a higher standard by raising her own bar and chinning it with a grin. So many girls end up hoping to outlive their high school reputation of self-absorbs ion, low self esteem, and poor choices. Kjersten was an old soul. She had no shame to outlive. I want her son and students to know, she didn't wait to grow up to be wonderful, she purposed to start out that way. She didn't happen to live for what mattered, family, friends, music and the arts, she looked for the moments of matter and lived in them. This example comes to mind: Besides my lack of dazzling features, my height excluded me from auditioning for leading roles and ingénues. There were less than a handful of guys taller than I, and most were not prone to audition for school plays. But I was a solid ticket in the running for any leads that needed a mother. One night at a party, Kjersten heard me mock moaning about how just once I'd like to do a scene cutting that spun me away from the type cast 'mother.' She uncrossed her legs, got out of her chair, and crossed the room to me. Then she gently tucked a wisp of hair behind my ear, and spoke straight into my face in a near whisper, "beauty and innocence can only get girls so far, then they have to grow up and be lovely and wise. This world has plenty of girls, Tonya, but you have a head start on practicing to be a lady." [That notion would stick with me and resonate far beyond the stage as I took on life roles as a high school teacher, a director, a wife, a September 11 witness and aftermath volunteer, and a mother.] My sophomore year in college, my parents moved again and Woodinville was no longer my port of call. I blazed into full time work, classes, and a courtship with my husband. Email correspondence was still a few years out for me (yes, that's how OLD I am), or I might have done better with keeping up with friends-- who knows. I was traveling internationally during the two reunions I would have enjoyed attending, and fell well out of touch with classmates. This past summer, our well loved theatre teacher, Hjalmer Anderson, retired. Kjersten and I both attended a surprise party in his honor. After the function, a group of us went out for more time together. Kjersten and I were seated at opposite ends of a long table. She got up, moved to my end of the table, squeezed my hand and said, "Now where were we?" and fifteen years slid under the table. Our catch up chat was all together too short, but long enough to learn how much she loved Chris, Collier, and her students. She invited me to ride the I5 corridor with her this Spring when I am on tour in Oregon so we could catch up more and I could meet her friends on the way to Eugene rehearsals. She celebrated my recent success in writing a show and was excited to come see it when it is schedualed in Portland. Kjersten didn't give the obligatory,"oh that's nice," she actually wanted to how the piece captured my beliefs, what I think works well and what I am still working on. She was empathetic to how much I miss my students now that I am a full time mom and no longer in the classroom. We laughed about how hard it is to mother just one when there is a whole world out there that needs loved on. While talking with her, I felt myself start to sit straighter and smile from within my soul, at peace. All who knew her stand taller, sing louder, play longer, and love more deeply because she took the time to cross the space between us, and call out the strength and beauty we had yet to discover in ourselves, for she was a lady, lovely and wise. Chris, we too will miss the warmth of her mothering. Be proud that out of all the kids in the world, she chose you to make her very own. You are the one who carries on her heart for the people all around you each day. She left you with a legacy of love, and you honor her everytime you bring out the best in someone else and lead with quiet strength and dignified grace. May our God hold, heal, and help you through your loss, and give you strength to face the difficulties of days ahead. My prayers are with you and your father. |
| Name: | sherill roberts |
| E-mail address: | shrobert@linfield.edu |
| Comments: | Today at Kjersten's memorial service I had a conversation with her mother that haunts me. Mrs. Oquist expressed anger at a system that allowed a drunk driver on the road with a previous DUI conviction. She said we should write letters to our legislators and mount a campaign to change that.
I spent the entire 2nd act of tonight's opera performance mulling this over. (OK, I missed a few notes while my mind was elsewhere.) When I got home I went to the web site for MADD, and sent letters to Governor Kulongoski and to my state senator and state representative. These letters call on them to support legislation for mandatory ignition interlocks for people convicted of drunk driving. It was really easy. On the MADD web site I clicked on the "Take Action" button, then "Action Alert Center", and then had a choice of different issues to act on. The ignition interlock spoke to me, but you might find another one that you prefer. There was a form letter which I personalized by telling about Kjersten and Angela, and why I care. I also made donations in each of their names. Nothing we do will bring them back. Nothing will fill the holes their deaths have left in our lives. Our pain and anger, however, can be used constructively. We can honor their memory by finding a way to stop this from happening to others. We have such a huge network of people who loved Kjersten and Angela. Together we can make a difference. Are you willing to join me in this? Sherill |
| Name: | Teri Zumbusch |
| E-mail address: | tazwluv@comcast.net |
| Comments: | I am Angela's mother-in-law. What a joy it is to read how much her life touched so many in such a wonderful way. For someone so young, it continues to amaze, the impact that she had on the world around her, and those who were priveledged to have had their life's journey intersect with hers. I met a young gal at her funeral, in Wenatchee, who had been of of her very first students, in that first year of teaching when she wondered if she would make it to twenty students, which was her goal. She shared with me that she was still playing violin because of Angela, and that she was leaving for Poland to study for a year at the Crocow Institute of Music.
I was blessed to spend the Sunday before she died, superbowl Sunday with her. We had a great time, and she shared so much with me about what was happening in her life...she was in such a high place, with so much expectation of the future ahead of her and Erik. I also got to meet Kjersten and her family at the superbowl party they held, and my heartfelt prayers go out to them. Angela had told me that Kjersten was one of her best friends. Angela was my first 'daughter', as I have 4 sons, and she was everything any mother could wish for her son in a wife. As I told her in the birthday card I had just given her...that as Erik grew, I knew she was growing too, and i prayed for her safety, a good home, and that she would grow to be the wife that would be perfect for him, and that he would grow into being the perfect husband for her...and that God had answered my prayer when she came into Eriks life and became his wife. Angela was an absolute joy to know, and though I will miss my 'daughter' more than my heart can even comprehend right now...I am so greatful that we were blessed to have her live her life's journey as part of our family, as my precious son's wife, and my friend. She opened the world of classical music to me...took me to concerts, blessed me with her playing and was one of the nicest and kindest people I ever met. I know I am all the more blessed for the joy, passion, excellence and effervecent zest for life that she sowed into my life...I will endeavor to honor her by not letting one ounce of that be forgotten. Thank you Angela...you rock on girl. Teri Zumbusch PS...I will look forward to meeting many of you at the memorial service. In case you missed the information: It will be held Sunday, February 25th at 1:00 PM at the Vancouver School of Arts and Academiscs, located at 3101 Main, Vancouver, Washington. |
| Name: | Rebecca Schuster |
| E-mail address: | mebeccas2@yahoo.com |
| Comments: | Hello everyone! I am Angela's little sister and have so appreciated reading everyone's comments and praises of her. I know that she loved every one of you. I will never forget her calls while she was driving home after having rehearsal or a performance. She always bragged about her friends and fellow musicians. I know that she was the best sister anyone could have, and friend for that matter. Though I wish she was still with us, I am so grateful that I was blessed to have her as long as I did. I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. I know God will bring us through this painful season of life.
Just for kicks, here's one of my favorite memories with Angela: Being ten years younger than Angela, she would often invite me to have slumber-parties with her in her room. She would put on Harry Connick Jr. or U2, light allllllll of the candles, and then we would mud-mask and do our nails. She would read me a bedtime story (which consisted of me reading one sentence of Little House on the Prairie and her reading one sentence of Interview With a Vampire back-and-forth, back-and-forth...), and then we would eventually fall asleep. In the morning, she would always take time to curl my hair for gradeschool. I will treasure those fun memories among many many other. I still cannot believe how giving Angela was, not only of her time, but of herself. I will always love her and miss her. God bless you all as we grieve the losses of Angela and Kjersten. |
| Name: | Tonya McQuistan- Nichols |
| E-mail address: | TONYANICOLS@ADELPHIA.NET |
| Comments: | I did log onto MADD.com and spent some time on petitions as Sherill suggested. It was simple to do, but gave me some hope that more lives may be spared a senseless end to drunken driving. I urge others to do the same. We do have a voice. These women are worth our time to speak up. |
| Name: | Karen Bjorge |
| E-mail address: | pumpkingirl3@verizon.net |
| Homepage URL: | http://www.myspace.com/corenfa |
| Comments: | A week has gone by since I found out about my dear friend Angela, and I'm still heart broken.
Angela and I attended CWU together along with our husbands-both named Erik :) One of my fondest memories was working the Brahms Horn Trio with Angela. She had so many wonderful ideas and made the whole experience stand out as my single favorite concert I gave at Central. While working with Angela and taking several classes together I met her alter-ego, Millie. Whenever I was having a hard day or a bad rehearsal she would look at me and smile (with that sweet angelic smile she always had) and started talking in a very quiet, high pitched voice that always made me laugh, and most of the time get us in trouble. I haven't had much contact with Angela the last few years. I would see her at an occasional gig and we talked as if no time had passed. Angela always had a gift of making everyone feel special and loved. I will miss her warm heart and personality. My comfort is knowing that she is in a much better place, looking down on us smiling and continuing to bless our lives with her memory and her beautiful gift of music. I thank God for giving me such a wonderful friend and colleague. My prayers are with Angela's family, her husband Erik and Kjerten's family, her husband Collier and their son, and all their students. These were two of the finest musicians I have worked with. They will be missed by everyone they touched in their short lives. |
| Name: | Mayelee Watts |
| E-mail address: | wattsup101@hotmail.com |
| Comments: | I met Angela in 2004. I had only known her for 3 years..but in those three years I learned more than the last six or seven years. She was a serious music teacher and took her music serious. She was the kind of person who could light up a room the minute she walked in. Not only was she a music teacher but she was a great friend and mentor. In the short amount of time I spent with her, I was able to make my music come alive and be able to show life in my music thanks to her and the way she taught me to play. Playing with her was magical in a sense that made me love music again. She was an amazing music teacher and by far my favorite teacher. I wish she was still here today but I know she is in a better place and was graciously accepted into that place. She will be greatly missed and already is. My condolences go out to her long time students, her family, and friends. This loss is a very sad one but I thank the Lord that she is in a better place. Thank you Angela for being there for me and teaching me so much! I will always remember you. |
| Name: | Shauna Keyes |
| E-mail address: | shaunak@teleport.com |
| Comments: | I first met Kjersten at an audition for Sinfonia Concertante soon after she moved here. She had also brought her husband Collier and we chatted while we waited for the results. She won that one and we have been competing for the same jobs ever since. I remember thinking it's so frustrating when you really LIKE the new person in town. We've also been friends ever since that first audition. I always enjoyed talking about our famili |