Karel Husa had a great influence on me as a teenager in Ithaca that has lasted a lifetime. The expression rôle-model would be inadequate, as it was not about rôle-playing but a whole example that he set in life. He had tremendous gravitas, but still exuded warmth, generosity, immense humor, and needless to say, brilliance. His music stands out amongst both century compositions, and I often enjoy listening to the records and CDs that I have of his work. I learned from watching him conduct, and then from playing contrabass under his baton, that patience and a kindly manner bring out the best in musicians. He did not have to raise his voice to have authority. People enjoyed working with him. It was a lesson that courtesy and thoughtfulness go a long way. He had a wealth of knowledge and interests. Conversations with him sparked my interest in other cultures and in history, which broadened my perspectives and led me to study and read about all sorts of places and things that I might otherwise never have thought of. This was a true gift. It was fun to be around him, and there was often a lot of laughter (that laugh of his!). We once talked about how the Czech comic folk hero, the Good Soldier Schvejk, could be a good companion in tough times. There were many other things that I learned from him - how to listen carefully, not just to music, but to other people, and the importance of getting a full view of things before acting. I feel fortunate and privileged to have known this great man, and he leaves an enduring legacy. We were honored by his presence and will treasure his memory.

To the family of my wonderful professor, Karel Husa - I was so sorry to hear of your loss at his passing.  I studied orchestration and conducting from Mr. Husa in the late 70's early 80's, and I was privileged to be a member of his chorus in one of the early performances of Apotheosis of this Earth.  Mr. Husa was one of the most rigorous educators I have ever known; he treated everyone, always, with tremendous respect and dignity, and above all, kindness.  Courtesy was as important to his relationship with each student as the nuts and bolts of composition, orchestration, conducting, voice leading.  He was like a father, or a grandfather to all of us, and yet his warmth and grace were always interwoven with the music he taught us.  He was always "on point" to teach and guide his students to their best musical expression.  His poise and kindness as a gentleman and a humanist were only slightly exceeded by his genius as a composer.  For decades after graduating from Cornell, I have followed his success and always remembered him with such fondness and respect.  For such a great artist to have given so much to his students is exceptional, and Mr. Husa was that to us.  I do hope that my wonderful memories of him as a mentor and a teacher and a fellow musician will give you some solace at this sad time.

So very sorry to hear of Karel's passing. My parents (Marice and Shirlee Stith) thought very highly of him and it was a privilege for my Dad to be able to work with Karel at Cornell. Your Dad certainly made a tremendous impact on this world and I'm sure on each of you. Thinking of you all and will always appreciate my 3 children that you helped bring into the world, Catherine! Your family has always been held in the highest regard. May God Bless you and your family.

Dear Simone,  I have remembered you fondly for many years since we  left Cornell. Shelly died seven years ago and I continue to live in Nashville Tennessee. Karel was a delightful and very special man. I am so sorry for you loss.    Barbara

I was the Cornell Music Department Administrator for many years and had the privilege of working and knowing this wonderful man.  Not only a world great composer but a world great gentleman.  He always went out of his way to talk with me and told me many of his life stories.  I saw him last on the day I retired when he came to wish me well.  RIP Karel. 
Jane Belonsoff

Karel Husa was an extraordinarily talented composer and conductor, and a very brave man, whose works represent some of the finest 20th century Czech music written in exile from his native land. Studying with him in 1972-5 I did not find easy - or rather I did find it TOO easy, as he refused to criticize details, even when begged to, saying: "I lived under the Nazis, and I don't do that."  But many learned much from him.  And I did too - about adding horns to string textures, for example.  Best of all though was playing his wonderful music for solo piano, 4-hand piano, and voice and piano, and learning from his sensitive and encouraging insights as he coached it, in the 1970s and later in the early 1990s.  I'll never forget how he drove me to a concert where I was to have played piano but could only play 4-hands because of having fractured my left elbow! Sad to have to move his recordings now off of my shelf of living composers' works.  Greetings & fond regards to his wife and daughters from me and my wife Helene Williams - Leonard J. Lehrman

Karel Husa was my composition teacher at Ithaca College in the mid-1970s. He was a caring dedicated teacher who had a profound influence on my musical style (davidajaffe.com).

Karel was my composition teacher at Cornell, and one of the greatest influences in my life. He was wise and kind; I learned  how to find my own musical voice, but just as importantly, how to be part of the community of musicians. His words, music and actions will forever be a blessing to me and many others.

A wonderful man and extraordinary musician has passed.  I have been fortunate to not only play
his music but visit with the Husa's at their home.  I will be forever grateful for these blessings.-

Karel Husa was a true gentleman with an electric smile and beautiful soul who touched so many. I was lucky enough to study with him for four years at IC, over forty years ago, and still feel his influence on everything I create. He will always have a place in my heart. My deepest condolences.

What a lovely person Mr. Husa was.  I have never met a kinder and gentler man.  I was a member of his final class at Ithaca College where he was a great mentor and inspiration to me.  His influence is still, and will always be, part of my compositions.

Karel was a wonderful man. His passion for music, in general, was very inspirational to me. He rehearsed and guest conducted my bands on several occasions, and inspired the ensemble with his genuine compassion for people and players. He will be greatly  missed but his music and legacy remain for eternity.

OBITUARY

Karel Jaroslav Husa

August 7, 1921 – December 14, 2016

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services