Former Chicago Symphony Orchestra trombonist Edward Kleinhammer passed away on Nov 30 at the age of 94. He was a well-respected member of the orchestra for 45 year until his retirement in 1985, spending many summers here at Ravinia. He is survived by his wife, Dessie.
“What a joy it is to work with Ed; he is the most conscientious musician I have ever met. He is a fanatic about practicing. He arrives hours before rehearsals and concerts to make sure his preparation is as good as it can be. Because his personal standards of playing and conduct are so high, Ed never tries to compete with anyone but himself. He is humble about his own talents and generous in praising others.... There was only one way he could be a musician, and that was by giving 110 percent of himself.” — Jay Friedman, principal trombone of the CSO in 1985
via Chicago Tribune