Although I just heard the news of his passing, my heart is deeply saddened at the loss of my dear former mentor Mr Schwartz.  He was a treasure, and I will never forget his encouragement- and his willingness to kick me in the rear when needed!  He encouraged me to perform in the concerto competition at CSU - and despite my own doubts, he coached me to polishing the 3rd movement of the Bruch better than I ever thought I could.  My sincere condolences go to AnneMarie- who I know was such a blessing to him, and also to his children as well.  Thank you Mr Schwartz for all your years of love and patience!

I came to CSU right out of high school, hadn't played my violin for 3 months (which was a long time for a 17 year old!), went to Mr. Schwartz's office, he had me audition.  I was so scared - but he put me at ease immediately, and pulled out some Vivaldi duets that we played together.  It was the best audition ever, as far as pleasantness could be - I'm sure his ears were gentle :)  and he offered me a scholarship as long as I'd play in both symphonic and chamber orchestras.   WOW!  What an inspiration.   I had private lessons with him as well, always fun and upbeat, and he is a very large part of what has kept me playing throughout my life - he was able to convey the fun and love of music over the work, and he understood when life's pressures took priority.
I'm so sorry for your loss, the community's loss.  Will was a unique man and I feel very fortunate to have been mentored by him.

I met Wil Schwartz when he became conductor of the Cheyenne Symphony, where I was then playing, in addition to his ""regular gig"" in Ft. Collins.  He suggested I come to CSU to major in music. Five yrs later when I graduated from high school, I did just that and then went on to play professionally with the Atlanta Symphony and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestras.  Many years later I moved back into the Rocky Mtn Area as a free-lance musician and was lucky enough to play as a sub with the FCSO during Wil's 50th year. It was with great sadness that I read of his death. His amazing talents and kindness helped shape my life and will be long-remembered.

Although I have long since graduated from CSU, I will never forget Professor Schwartz.  He truly inspired my cello playing and saw in me something I had not yet noticed....a spark which has lead to an amazingly fulfilling career in music therapy.  My heart goes out to his family and friends.

It is with great sadness that I read of the passing of Mr. Schwartz.  My condolences his family, and my thanks to a great teacher.

I was a music department colleague with Will since 1962.He was so steady in his work in the department and with the  symphony, always supporting his students and orchestra players.In later years he forgot that in his office in old Spruce Hall he always had a box of raisins in a desk drawer!

Maestro,
Your guidance & style will never be forgotten.  You showed me what it was to be a musician and LOVE the music, from every note to every rest.  Your 'Caro nome' was 'dear', indeed.

Mr Schwartz was a huge influence in my life.  I played oboe in the CSU orchestra and Ft Collins Symphony for 4 years when I was in college at CSU.  Those were the best musical years of my life.  One dress rehearsal was not going well.  I missed most of my entrances and eventually just cried.  He talked to me after the horrible rehearsal.  He told me that in 50 years we would all be pushing up daisies and then he gave me a hug.  That night I played a wonderful concert. I think of him often and use that quote with my kids.  We were very lucky to have him in our life.  Thank you Mr Schwartz.

Mr. Schwartz.  I cried today reading your obituary.  Words cannot describe your influence  both musically and personally.  A beloved virtuoso and a masterful teacher.

Wil was more then a great teacher - he was a friend. My time at CSU working on my masters degree in conducting under him was wonderul and that we kept in contact after that was so very important. He will be missed. Thank you Wil!!

To this day Will Schwartz' vision of a symphony orchestra lives on from its inception 61 years ago. His students have gone on to be professional musicians, educators, music lovers, and music supporters. For that, the City of Fort Collins, Larimer County, and the music world will always be thankful. We will miss you Maestro Schwartz!
Wes Kenney, Music Director Fort Collins Symphony and Opera Fort Collins, Professor of Music, Director of Orchestras 
Colorado State University.

Our best to a wonderful family.  What a tremendous loss.  Will gave so much to this community.  Take good care.

As a Fort Collins native, Will Schwartz is an integral part of my memories of music in Fort Collins.
I'm thankful for his contibutions.

My condolences to all of Will's family.We first met Will shortly after moving to Fort Collins in 1963 where we lived nearby in the Sheely addition. With George's involvement with the Symphony they became good friends. His musical legacy lives on.

I send my deepest condolences to the family.  I grew up in the same neighborhood -- the Sheely addition -- as the Schwartz family and went to school with daughter, Lana.  Your father was an incredible person who gave Fort Collins a special and lasting gift.  I truly appreciate his talent and generosity.

My cousin, Marilyn (Drager)Outslay, played violin in the Fort Collins Symphony in the very early years.  I was flower girl in her wedding in 1958 - and I remember meeting Wil at that time. He was a pretty impressive and classy guy even to a little 8-year old! Years later, when the Lincoln Center was opening, Wil met with me to express his hope that the FCSO would have a permanent home at Lincoln Center.  Although my job as the box office manager didn't affect the scheduling, I assured him I'd do all I could to support the FCSO.  Wil's dedication to the continued improvement of the organization he founded in 1949 & his efforts to achieve those goals are qualities I respect and will always remember.  He influenced thousands of people over more than 50 years to appreciate the music provided by the symphony - and that is certainly no small legacy.  I will miss him.  My condolences to Lisa, Eric and the rest of the family.

It was a privilege to have studied with and played for Will, who acquainted me with the real world of professional music. He supported me well after I graduated, and it was that personal support, in addition to his teaching that has enabled me to work successfully as a professional musician and teacher. He continues to live through the influence of those students who were blessed  to have studied with him.

Will was my violin teacher, conducting teacher and friend.  His memories will be with us always.  I can't begin to enumerate all of them.  Our condolances to his loved ones.  Mary and John House

I can't help but walk down memory lane and the times I babysat Lisa and Eric, the day Mr. Schwartz invited me to play with the orchestra while I was in high school, the many violin lessons, the many conversations, him bringing his dog into the music building during off hours, etc.  Will Schwartz had a major impact on my life and the direction it has gone in and I am so blessed by the time and energy he invested in me.  I spent time with him three years ago and cherish that time I had with him.  My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

Lisa,
 So sorry for your loss.
 DeeDee Colvin

I am SO sorry to hear about this.  Will was such a wonderful man.  I worked in Music, Theatre and Dance and it was always such a pleasure and an honor to assist him in my administrative duties.  I will always look back on those days as some of the most special in my CSU career.  I will remember him always!  He was sheer class through and through.

OBITUARIO

Wilfred Allan Schwartz

23 septiembre, 1923 – 27 agosto, 2010

Allnutt Funeral & Cremation - Macy

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