Providing professional development to our musicians since 2008.
Robert L. Stone, also known “Bob” was a beloved member of the Summerville Orchestra in its early years. He was formerly a conductor in Minnesota and was a talented musician. Outside of rehearsals, he could be found integrating new musicians into the orchestra and mentoring peers by organizing sectionals. In his memory, and through the generous gift of Anna Koiss Walkaraj’s estate, the Bob Stone Memorial Fund was established to fund the Bob Stone Memorial Award. Since then, it has helped over 20 different musicians in a variety of ways.
What the Bob Stone Memorial Award has done
Provided Lessons to the following musicians:
- Benjamin Turner- Trombone
- Sarah Johnson- Violin
- Reed Kurtz- Piano
- Clara Johnson- Violin
Provided instrument repair to the following musicians:
- Sarah Teuscher- Oboe
- Shawn Graves- Percussion
- Emilee Johnson- Harp
- Abigail Pruett- Bassoon
- Joshua Mack- Double Bass
Musicians remembering Bob
Any time I needed to be at rehearsal, Bob always greeted me with a smile, a wink, a joking comment. He brought sunshine and joy into the room with him. He will be missed as a kind and loving man, as well as a fine musician. We are all better for having known him.
– Arlene Hoffman
It had been a privilege and honor knowing Bob for the last several years. He was truly one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met. He was a perfect gentleman, and so smart, witty and funny! He always made me laugh, and we never said “hello” and “goodby” without a hug. Bob was a talented musician who gave his time generously to the community. I loved playing chamber music with him. I’ll treasure the memories of Bob coming to my house for rehearsals the sharing some wine, cheese and good conversation with me afterwards. Bob always told great stories and jokes. “Big Bob” was my good friend. I loved him dearly and will miss him terribly!
– Alison Harvey – aka “Gina” to Big Bob
We LOVE Bob, and so enjoyed all his music the past Sudays at Bethany.
– Phyllis Herring
Joining a new music ensemble can be intimidating. I didn’t quite know what to expect when I came for rehearsal the first time. One of the first people I was introduced to in the group was Bob. He was very welcoming and helped me to get to know and meet some of the other musicians. During rehearsals, he’d look back and give a smile or a wink and bring a spot of joy to my day. He was a kind and true man and I feel grateful to have known him.
– Swati Dadheech