Share Your Stories of Charles

Charles became a very special and close friend from our first meeting at the final selection weekend for the 1976-1977 Class of White House Fellows. During our Fellows year, we were very often together, from the sultry Washington summer to the frigid North Slope of Alaska. Charles was our only genuine artist classmate, and freely and fully brought us into a better appreciation of art as he brought art to us. Indeed, bringing art to the people was a lifetime mission in which he magnificently succeeded as a Fellow at the Department of Transportation, subsequently in Denver at the new airport, in Boston with the founding of the Landmarks Orchestra, and in countless performances worldwide. Charles the person was, and is in his legacy, as large as his global audience. He enriched the world, and especially every one of us who were privileged to be in his company. He truly lives on ….

I first saw the great Maestro,Charles Ansbacher, conduct in the early 70s, when I was 13 and living in Colorado Springs, CO. We had just moved there from Chicago and my Mother, yearning for the culture of our old city, took me to Memorial Park whenever Charles was conducting. I was immediately enchanted with his big, red bow tie and huge smile. At some point during these concerts, he would lead his orchestra through music from my favorite television commercials, very pleasing to an adolescent girl! Eventually, Maestro Ansbacher relocated to the East Coast and I went on to college; forgetting, momentarily, about classical music. Luckily for me, shortly after my husband and I moved to the East Coast in the late 90's, I rediscovered the Great Charles when I heard he was beginning his own project, The Landmark Orchestra. I was so excited...not only could I see him conduct again, but it would be at interesting outdoor locations throughout the Boston area. And, best of all, I could expose my own three children, all under 10 at the time, to Maestro Ansbacher's magic!! The first time I loaded them all in the car and drove from Marblehead to the North End, where he was performing, I think I was much more giddy than they were. Until, of course, they became entranced with Ansbacher's rendition of Make Way for Ducklings, by then a family favorite. To my delight my kids enjoyed the day as much as I did.

Over the years, we have attended these delightful concerts when possible, and hopefully when my children are older they will have wonderful memories, like I do, of being mesmerized by the smiling Maestro with the big, red bowtie and huge smile!!

Thank you, Charles, for inspiring a love of classical music in me and so many young people over the more than 35 years you have been throwing your arms in the air and conducting beautiful music. You will be sorely missed by all!

My fondest memory of Charles was a performance we did together of Beethoven's 9th on the Boston Common. Being there right in the middle of the city was a special feeling in itself, more powerful for me even than singing at the Hatch Shell.

I remember his explanation of the movements to the audience. He said the Scherzo was a dance, and if you felt so moved, you should feel free to dance during it. Well, my 3 year-old granddaughter was there, and she did. It gave me goosebumps to watch her.

His passion for bringing music to the people was what I loved most about him. Continuing that effort in his memory is the best tribute we can offer.

Charles will be sorely missed. Not only was he a champion of music for the masses free of charge in public spaces, he was also a champion of local composers. Every year from the very beginning he commissioned a new work to be presented by the BLO to huge audiences at public parks around the greater Boston area. He is a man completely devoted to and madly in love with music. He believed that music has the magic power to enhance the lives of people from all over the city. We should all emulate such passion in our lives. I pray that the BLO will continue to thrive in the spirit and mission that he envisioned and created.

Lux aeterna.

Working for and with Charles has been a blessing to my life, both personally and professionally.  Professionally speaking, summer employment in a freelance musician's world is often a challenge and the Boston Landmarks Orchestra has for 10 years been a pillar of stability and support to me.

Personally, Charles' musical life and mission had always reminded me of my father, who I lost at age 17, also from cancer. Both were fine conductors, both were committed to providing free summer concerts for the enjoyment of all, and both faced their illness with an amazing, uplifting sense of humor combined with unfailing strength and unwavering optimism.

Wanting to thank him for a great summer season this year, my last conversation with Charles quickly moved into his plans for next season! Always moving forward and thinking ahead...

I have no doubt Charles' legacy to Boston will be both lasting and profound. Thank you Charles!!!

It was with great sadness that I learned of Maestro Ansbacher's much-too-soon passing. I have many fond memories of collaborating with him in preparing the chorus for his Boston Common Beethoven Ninth Symphony performances. The chorus was made up of members from many distinguished New England choruses, and I was impressed how rich and cohesive a sound they mustered under Maestro Ansbacher's inspiring direction. Those were very special performances to me, but ALL of Maestro Ansbacher's performances were special. He had the gift of communicating his love of the music he was leading in all of his concerts. His mission, as so eloquently illumined by my colleagues comments, was valuable and important. We will all deeply miss Charles, for so many reasons.

More than a decade ago, Charles and Swanee embraced an improbable idea—that the Boston Foundation would raise and match $10 million to fund a permanent endowment for the arts. They gave a dinner at their home so that Anna Faith Jones could introduce the idea to their friends. I was seated at Charles’ table. He smiled like he couldn’t hold on to a secret any longer. “What if there were free classical concerts in the summer? In parks around the city? When no one else is performing? Not everyone goes away. People in every Boston neighborhood should have access to good classical music. For free.”

Charles seemed to be testing the idea, testing his listeners. But in retrospect, he must have had his Landmarks Orchestra already fully formed in his mind. We smiled, too, and agreed, chatted about how wonderful it would be. I thought it was a crazy idea, that he was nuts, that he didn’t see the barriers. I was right. The idea was crazy and Charles was probably nuts, too, possessed by his vision. And I was wrong. A short year later, sitting in the grass at Jamaica Pond listening to one of the Landmarks Orchestra’s first concerts, I smiled to think of my earlier, cynical verdict. I was wrong in just the way that I love to be wrong. When someone is so possessed that they don’t see the barriers, but only possibility. When the power of that improbable vision is so strong that it demands to be realized. Anna Faith Jones’ vision of a $20 million Arts Fund was realized. Charles’ vision for his Landmarks Orchestra is a reality.

Charles can’t prove me wrong again, even in the best way. His concert in Fenway Park erased the last vestige of my cynicism. On July 7th, on baseball’s hallowed turf, he realized yet another improbable dream. Tickets were gone in a snap. Families crowded the bleachers, enjoying hot dogs, Beethoven and Bernstein. The audience roared, showing Charles its love. It was the kind of transformative summer evening that should happen more frequently.

Charles’ vision of an endowed fund for free outdoor orchestral concerts is so strong that I know it will be realized. When Boston’s families come together from neighborhoods across the city to enjoy the best orchestral music, it transforms us, makes us all better people living in a better city. Charles’ dream of free concerts for all will be realized and Boston will be better for it. Thank you, Charles, for your improbable, powerful vision.

What a sad day in the music world, but how wonderful that the Maestro will live on in the memories of all who ever sat in a field of grass to hear his music.

I have looked forward to singing with Maestro Ansbacher the past few summers as a member of New World Chorale. It was a pleasure as well as privilege to experience old war horses like Beethoven's 9th with him and BLO. He brought music back to the city during the summer when many other groups had left for other locations. He will be sorely missed. Thank you.

We in Colorado Springs saw the same magic you did in Boston. His vision moved our Symphony Orchestra from the Palmer High School Auditorium to our wonderful Pikes Peak Center. Charles was very instrumental in getting it built.
He truly was a visionary, and we mourn his passing. Thank you, Larry Smith, for bringing him back to the Pikes Peak Center for "The Three Maestri".

I am deeply saddened to hear of Charles' death. He truly was a genuine human being, totally devoted through his innate passion for music's message to making a difference whether it be Boston or Bosnian environs. I was so pleased and honored to be with him recently and to take the podium in his place. His dedication to sharing his passion for music with everyone around the world was admirable indeed, and the fact that he did it so genuinely, honestly and with such integrity will live with us for a long, long time. Rest in peace, my friend.

I had the great pleasure of working for the Landmarks Orchestra in 2003-2004 administratively and for a time directly for and with Charles in his office designing a database together to keep track of his scores library, CDs and other information. I also sang in performances of the Beethoven Ninth Symphony in the Boston Common as well as a number of performances with chorus Coro Allegro of Swanee's striking and powerful work "The Witness Cantata".

These were wonderful occasions personally but most important of course were the multiple and varied superb concerts given throughout the Greater Boston area over this past decade which enabled many people to encounter classical music possibly for the first time in their lives and something he championed and made possible and the difference this has made.

One of my favorite personal moments was being in Boston on an occasion (I think a New Year's Eve) and encountering him dressed to the nines in the largest top hat around possibly short of Abraham Lincoln. He looked the total dandy and as he said to me "I Never miss out on times like this" which can speak for all sorts of opportunities and making the most of life’s time which he certainly did in spades.

Although Charles is gone now he lives on through the music he performed and recorded and of course the orchestra he founded and I believe will thrive well into the future. We are all the richer for the fact he was here.

Maestro Ansbacher taught a course in Music Appreciation at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs when I was a student there. His love of music, and enthusiasm for everything were abundantly evident. Being in the auditorium while he taught is one of my fondest memories from my university days. Thank you, Maestro, for all of the gifts you gave to the world.

My 5 year old grandson Aidan loved listening to Make Way for Ducklings. Everytime he got in the car on his way home from school he would ask me to play it. Aidan brought the CD to school to share with his classmates. They all sat quietly and listened. Charles Ansbacher will be missed so much.

My husband, Aaron Cohen, and I are so sad to receive this news. The obituaries made all the right comments. What I remember is Charles' warm manner and his smile.

We are forever grateful for the experiences we have had in attending Landmark concerts.

Thank you, Maestro Anspacher, for the wonderful gift of music which you gave to the people of our city. I will not forget you. Rest in peace, and condolences to your family and friends.

I had the pleasure of working with Charles as he achieved a home for the performing arts, and music in particular in Colorado Springs. While I, and others provided acoustics expertise, the success achieved was the result of the dedication of Bee and Charles. Charles was the perfect Music Man to lead such a project to successful fruition. In addition to his duties with the orchestra, he got involved with every aspect of the design and its completion. Some of my most rewarding and enjoyable moments in almost a half century of consulting came working hand-in-hand with Charles Ansbacher on the Pikes Peak Center. Of course it is totally appropriate that he has ensured that there will be outdoor summer concerts in perpetuity here in Boston! Bravo! Charles!!

Seeing Charles in front of his orchestra his baton clasped in his teeth while he led the audience in song is the image I will cherish. The look of joy on his face, his whole being given to the music defines a true conductor, leading inspiring, teaching. Bless you Charles, dear friend, and thank you for your loyal friendship and sharing. And for allowing Ellen and me to get to know Swanee, soul mate and ever ready partner, truly your "without whom." Shalom forever.

As a member of the orchestra, I was always impressed with Charles as a man of integrity and determination. Though he was ambitious and had high hopes for the organization he was building, Charles never boasted or made grandiose accalamations about what was being accomplished. Rather, he was workmanlike in his approach to the orchestra in rehearsals, and occasionally acknowledged the Landmarks Orchestra's growing success with a brief comment and smile. But I was continually amazed as the audiences grew on the Esplanade, and Charles' mission became ever more successful. His concept of bringing classical orchestral music to the people, pure and simple, not gussied-up or made fancy, is one that we must remember in a time when it is tempting to believe classical music is becoming irrelevant. Thank you Charles for your quiet confidence and inspired leadership.

Bob Couture

Concerts, audience members, and passengers can be counted, but the impact of his ideas is incalculable. He imagined opportunities where others saw barriers. How many of us have dreamed bolder dreams, reached unimaginably farther, because of his stubborn encouragement and prodding? Our work is an extension of his work – no, of his life.

To An Athlete Dying Young
by A. E. Housman

The time you won your town the race
We chaired you through the market-place;
Man and boy stood cheering by,
And home we brought you shoulder-high.

Today, the road all runners come,
Shoulder-high we bring you home,
And set you at your threshold down,
Townsman of a stiller town.

Smart lad, to slip betimes away
From fields where glory does not stay,
And early though the laurel grows
It withers quicker than the rose.

Eyes the shady night has shut
Cannot see the record cut,
And silence sounds no worse than cheers
After earth has stopped the ears:

Now you will not swell the rout
Of lads that wore their honors out,
Runners whom renown outran
And the name died before the man.

So set, before its echoes fade,
The fleet foot on the sill of shade,
And hold to the low lintel up
The still-defended challenge-cup.

And round that early-laurelled head
Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead,
And find unwithered on its curls
The garland briefer than a girl's.

As a college student and musician in Boston, I was delighted to discover the Landmarks Orchestra my first summer in Boston. I enthusiastically dragged my friends to as many concerts as I could over the past two summers. His vision was a gift to everyone that attended any concert.

Dr Ansbaher and the Landmarks Orchestra have provided me with some wonderful summer evenings listening to incredible music. May his dream of free music for all continue to live on. RIP

VERY sad to learn of his passing. We were fortunate enough to see the BLO in their inaugural performance on the Commons years ago, and a few times since. My deepest condolences to the family. He will be greatly missed

“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal. ”
—Albert Pike (1809-1891); Attorney, Writer, Soldier

I shall miss Charles Ansbacher very much. His gracious ways, his kind demeanor, and articulate, informative introductions to us - his audience - before the magic of his music started. I especially loved his concerts at the Adams Estate and Harvard's Sanders Theater.

I feel so privileged to have known Charles, both during my tenure as CFO at the Interational Institute where he served on the board, and through the beautiful performances of the BLO. My greatest joy this summer is captured in a picture I have of Charles, baton in teeth, conducting the audience in the bleechers at Fenway Park...What a wonderful night of music! And I am so happy that I was present on September 1 at the Hatch Shell to again witness the energy and passion Charles shared so gracefully with the musicians and music lovers of Boston. The spirit and the music live on.

Thoughout his life, Charles was going to unusual (by my standards) and interesting places based on his curiosity, his desire to serve, and his ambition: Colorado, Texas, The White House, and venues around the world.

I appriciate that I and my family were often invited to join him, and if that was not the case, we enjoyed hearing his reports and insigths at family gatherings.

In addition, to telling us about his doings, he was always interested in what we doing, often to the extent of "interrogating" his relatives.

It was great to have him as a brother.

I will remember his face with that slightly smirky smile and the way he walked in a kind of lumbering lunge.

My wife Hana and I and very sorry to hear the bad news. We appreciated the limited time we got to know Charles and his family. you will always be remembered

Rest in Peace, Charles. You gave so many beautiful gifts to the world, and you left us too soon!

My real introduction to classical music was through the free concerts at the Hatch Shell. Over the past two summers I attended almost all of the concerts, and I always had a great time in the company of friends. I am grateful to Mr. Ansbacher for all he has done for music lovers.

My wife, Naeimah Al-Khurafi, and I are deeply saddened to hear of Charles' death. He was a warm and friendly person who made a difference by sharing his passion for music free of charge with people around the world. The music world had lost a great performer. Charles lives on through the music he performed and the people he touched. My thoughts and those of Naeimah are with his remarkable and loving wife Swanee and his family.

I saw Maestro Ansbacher conduct once, he was a very talented musician, I had no idea he was ill, but he was no doubt very brave. He was a unique dresser and will be missed. Shalom, (Peace) Jerry T. Sherman

I would like to share my interview to Mr.Charles Ansbacker, in memory of him. He talked about his understanding of the soul of music in this interview.

The Soul of Music - record of the interview

Xijin: What’s the soul of music?
Charles: All kinds of Emotions. It’s about sadness, happiness, and to describe a theme, to tell story.
Xijin: Is your music for expression or for bringing social change?
Charles: Some music may contain certain social messages, but it’s not always the case, and it’s hard to be that. If I were a revolutionist, or meant to change society, I won’t choose music. Music is Aesthetic. It’s beauty. It’s not social movement. Music can have social benefit, for education, for community, for children. It does good to them, but I won’t use ‘social purpose’ to describe it. Beethoven showed care for human spirit, for individual awareness, but he didn’t do music for society. His music can be played in Nazi Germany or in North Korea. People go to concerts or museums for aesthetic purpose, not social purpose. Some communities may use music as a tool to social purpose, but I won’t do that.
Xijin: What’s the purpose of music for you?
Charles: Aesthetics, and entertainment.
Xijin: Why did you create the free music group as Boston Landmark Orchestra?
Charles: Because there was no free music in Boston. I could have begun a Boston Orchestra if there were no orchestra in Boston, but there was a Boston Orchestra already, while no free public music. That’s why I did it. I had to find something unique. And I had experience of free music in other places. The reason is simple.
Xijin: Did you find conflict between the public tastes with the pure aesthetic value in your music?
Charles: Firstly, I only play music which is important to me. I won’t play any music I don’t like. I won’t play music that doesn’t please myself. So I select music both liked by me and please the audiences. I choose different music for different audiences. Some are more popular, some are more serious. There is music that liked by me but has no audiences. For example, the one too long, too serious, or too expensive, which may find no chances to be played.
Xijin: Why do you specially record music for children?
Charles: We don’t specially play for children. We also play for children, because children need music too.
Xijin: I know you has a wish to play as a voluntary conductor in Sichuan Province in China with local orchestra in memory of Sichuan earthquake. Why do you want to do that?
Charles: I heard the news. I felt sorry. So I had such an idea. It became clear with the positive response of Sichuan Philharmonic Orchestra. It was a pity the arrangement failed. I still would like to offer my service if they want to do it later.
Xijin: Want do you want to accomplish through music?
Charles: I think that the music brings some quiet, and some happiness, or some peace, to people who listen to it. Hope they may be exciting. I’m happy to offer that to people. For me, it’s very satisfied, it’s very fun and I love music. I love conducting. What I do, I enjoy it. And I’m glad to make other people happy. It’s not necessary to me to play for living, while it may be necessary for some persons. I don’t need to worry about that at this moment. So, to me, music is a choice.

I knew Charles for more than 20 years, he was a wonderful person who contributed so much to the world of music.

I think it must take a great strength to conduct, and how much more to build an orchestra? And how much more than that to rebuild one after a war? I am very inspired by Charles, his great heart, his life and achievements, and he will be much missed.

Mark and I never knew Charles thru his music. We met him and Swanee on their Columbine Ranch in Colorado. Thru the years we had many conversations with Charles. One winter my husband and I decided to give Charles and Swanee a dog sled ride. All was going great on the ride but coming back we were about to hit a dip in the trail. I called to Charles to lean left, he leaned right and over we went. I was mortified! I just dumped Charles out of my sled! My memory is that he was so concerned for me when this happened, afraid I was hurt. All was well and we had a good laugh after. Charles was such a warm and caring individual, we will miss him for sure.

Mark and Debra Su Stephens
Hartsel, Colorado

Since we knew nothing of Charles' illness, we were shocked to hear of his death. We had been to 6 of the Esplanade concerts this summer and enjoyed them SO much. Beethoven is one of my favorite composers. We do wonder who will take over his role. I was very impressed with Jonathan McPhee's professionalism and hope he takes an active role in continuing Charles' work.

Sincerely,
Trudy C. Sevier and Jim Harney

The performance of "South Pacific" on July 3 or 4th in Charlestown several years ago was one of the finest and most memorable ever! God Bless Charles and his Boston Landmarks Orchestra!

As a member of Coro Allegro, I had the opportunity to sing Gustav Holst's The Planets and Swanee's Witness Cantata. Charles' desire to share his love of music was palpable. What a tremendous legacy he has left in the BLO, bringing the gift of music to the parks and people of greater Boston.

I was privileged to have been living in Colorado Springs when Charles started conducting the orchestra and fondly remember all the starry nights in the parks listening to the great Maestro bring out the best in the music, going to the opening of his Pikes Peak Center and watching the ice skaters at the Broadmoor Ice Arena twirl to the Christmas music so adeptly arranged by Charles. I was saddened when he left the Springs but heartbroken to read of his death. Anyone that didn't have the honor of bearing witness to this wonderful man has truly missed out on life. There is a giant hole in the world now that Charles Ansbacher has left us.

Many things come to mind when I think of Charles Ansbacher; I will mention three. First, and possibly most impressive to me, is his humility. For a person of such accomplishment, who had made happen so many wonderful and improbable things through sheer force of will, who travelled in the circles he did, went the places he did, who challenged assumptions as he did, I never got the sense that he thought himself unusual or special for any of it (though he certainly was). Though his work involved him being in the limelight and required self-promotion, it appeared not at all that he did those things for himself, only for the music, and his ability to share it. With so many gifts and achievements, he very well might have seen himself as larger than life, but his manner with others made very clear that he did not. Second is his generosity. He didn’t take for granted the many blessings in his life, instead wishing only to reflect them. He didn’t have to dedicate his time in Boston to sharing his gifts with others, to bringing joy to thousands he didn’t know, but he did, and did so with great goodness. Which brings me to the third: His kindness. In every dealing of his with another that I saw, Charles was kind, open, considerate, attentive, self-effacing… valuing the person and what they had to offer. This isn’t easy for someone with so many dealings, but it was his way. Despite everything else worth recalling, these are things that those who knew him, even if only a little, will remember about him for some time to come. Charles Ansbacher, I thank God for your generous soul and may He bless and keep you.

I encountered Charles Ansbacher's genius and community spirit twice. The first time was when, to my astonishment, his orchestra showed up at the field next to my neighborhood park and pond to delight those of us who sat their in our beach chairs with a beautiful performance of the Tchaikovsky violin concert. The second time was even more magical. On a beautiful summer evening, with glittering reflections of the setting sun from the buildings on Tremont St and the Boston Common packed with people, I had the privilege of being in the tenor section for a performance of the Beethoven 9th. At one climax a roar came from the crowd as if for a touchdown. It was a night of extraordinary enthusiasm, a great demonstration of Charles Ansbacher's civic spirit. No one has shone such spirit more generously or more brilliantly attuned to the occasion. We can pray that someone can take up where Ansbacher left off, but I suspect he was one of a kind, and I am very grateful to have been here during his lifetime.

Charles was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He looked that way, he spoke that way, and most of all that’s the way he treated others, no matter who they were, old or young, musical or not, fancy or down-to-earth. The wonder of calling his phone and having him answer it himself stays with me, as does the respect he radiated for all different kinds of people, and the love he radiated for creating music. I miss him so much already.

For many years, Charles and the Landmark musicians offered free public concerts in Sanders Theatre under the auspices of the Harvard Extension School Alumni Association and the Harvard Summer School. As dean of students and alumni affairs I had the pleasure of working with Charles on these programs and the privilege of a front-row seat.

One July night, as Charles created glorious music with one of many young soloists he brought over from Russia, I realized that we were the lucky ones, listening to Beethoven in our back yard -- while the unlucky ones had to drive all the way out to Tanglewood!

Thank you, Charles, for sharing your art and your warm humanity with so many!

Charles was gifted as a musician but it was his extrarodinary generosity of spirit that was his greatest gift of all - to Swanee's wonderful salons, to Boston, and to all the people who knew, respected and loved him.

The poem that follows was written to celebrate TPI's 20th anniversary -- we think it fits here -

If I Had More Time

For TPI’s 20th

If I had more time I would write a poem
But my quiet morning in the sun mountains
On one side ocean the other got swept away
A dizzy array of significant calls and emails
In fact the whole week and next
A kind of blur so the pressing poem Presence
Stillness my mother’s favorite Sassy Lassy rose
Was not written and all of a sudden December
The voice of my teacher Mr. Levine rings out –
“What the hell are you doing with the writing -
Why did I waste my time on you why indeed you!”

If I had more time I would write a poem
The years flowed now ten years now twenty
There were of course occasional poems
No coronations like Auden but wedding birth
Death but not the unspoken poem passionate
About the hurt world of a hungry child
Or Abraham’s poem of bothers and sisters
Or the deep poems of inner revelation
Or the poem of magic dolphins who shadow
A lone walker on a Pacific beach at low tide.

If I had more time I would surely write a poem
Until one day Levine called out of the blue to say –
“It isn’t finished this poem called ordinary life
Poems are hard to finish so keep pushing
That is your job!” So it finally dawned on me
What I do what we all do is write the poem
Every day we write the observant poem of life
You see it isn’t a matter of time but compassion
Call it community or hope or faith or call it love.
That is the flow that is the poem.

Peter Karoff

Kate and I attended the splendid July 14th concert at the Hatch Shell when the Landmarks Orchestra played a rousing rendition of Beethoven's Ninth. Charles allowed a guest conductor to take his place at the podium, but not before he made some introductory remarks. Charles noted how Beethoven, even in a time of strong anti-Turkish prejudice in Europe, included an inspiring Turkish march in his monumental masterpiece to hope for mankind. Charles said this was Beethoven teaching us all a lesson in tolerance and respect, and suggesting that all people could sort out their differences and work together for peace. The lesson came through loud and clear that night. The evening featured threatening storm clouds but the rains mostly held off and we were treated to a double rainbow as dusk gathered over the Back Bay. The heavens seemed to be blessing Charles' unwavering passion for making great music, and his fervent belief that making this music available for free to everyone can transform the world.

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Mr. Ansbacher. He was a wonderful man who gave Boston a great gift. I have enjoyed the Landmarks Orchestra since the very beginning. Going out and listening to live orchestral music with my now 12 year old daughter has been a wonderful experience. When my daughter was a toddler, the Landmarks Orchestra provided a perfect way to introduce her to live orchestral music. I remember listening to “Paul Revere’s Ride” in the courtyard of the Old North Church. My favorite event was attending the Landmarks concert each summer at Jamaica Pond. What a lovely setting.

I feel as if I have lost a good friend. Watching Mr. Ansbacher at these concerts, it was clear that he loved what he was doing. He loved being able to bring his favorite music to those of us who would not have much opportunity to see it performed live. I will be ever grateful for his vision, and his energy. He worked very hard to create the Landmarks Orchestra as a gift to us here in Boston. He will be truly missed.

After reading so many comments from people who knew Charles in the music world, I wanted to share the Charles I knew in the comfort of his home.

I met Charles in 1990 when he and Swanee hired me to be their household manager in Denver, Colorado. I had the unique privilege to know Charles as the romantic husband..calling Swanee “Love” and giving me his personal credit card to send flowers to her (instead of using the household account). He took her to The Fort at Lookout Mountain (a romantic restaurant) every year to relive the night he proposed to her. I knew him as the proud father, blending His, Hers and Theirs to be a united family, weather it was horseback riding at the Columbine Ranch, or cooking buffalo burgers in the backyard. I remember the day he showed me the heirloom engagement ring he had in the safe for the day Henry would need it. I remember taking Lillian and Teddy (along with my daughters) to his concerts, where Teddy would sit mesmerized and not move during the entire concert (quite unusual for a 5 year old). After the concerts, Charles would sign autographs and talk to dozens of children, never seeming to be in a hurry and always having time to talk to everyone wanting his time. He had a special smile for those of us at the end of the line and always thanked me for bringing his children. I also knew Charles as the nicest employer anyone could have. After every function at their house on Detroit St (usually 2-3 per week), he would come into the kitchen and rave about another successful evening and thank me for a terrific job. At 7:00 every morning, he would get his cup of coffee and ask how I was doing. He would stand there and expect an answer, listen and respond in a caring way. He always asked about my children by name and showed a genuine interest in their lives. When the family moved to Vienna, Charles made several trips back and forth as he finished his projects in Denver. He became the designated pet transporter, taking a different pet each trip..Shah the cat, the dove and the canary. As I would hand him the container, he’d chuckle and say, “well, what have we this time?” It didn't seem to bother him that he might have strange sounds coming from under his seat on the airplane. I’ll never forget driving him to the airport for the last time. He handed me an envelope, with a letter telling me that he was giving me his most trusted friend, the blue maxima, and left me the title to his car.

Fortunately, I was able to reconnect with Charles and Swanee this past June, when my daughter enrolled in Boston College. I feel grateful that I was able to visit with him briefly and feel a deep sadness for the loss of such a wonderful person.

Most people remember him as the musician, the Maestro, the humanitarian, but I will remember him as the caring, sensitive man who kept up with Swanee! He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.

The world has lost such a great man much too soon. I can recall year after year of going to concerts and leaving with uplifted heart and emotions by wonderful performances. Whether in water front parks, indoor concert halls, Boston Common, Charles River, etc., never was this conductor not magnificent. I loved hearing him talk to the audience about music and am very sad to hear of his passing

What an honor and a pleasure to know Charles! How he will be missed. He and Swanee entered our lives in 1995 in Jordan, when my wife Mette and I were serving at U.S. Embassy Amman. Charles came to conduct the Amman Symphony Orchestra, and we were fortunate to be able to attend the rehearsals and the concert. We were bowled over by Charles’ musicianship, his warmth, his quiet intensity, and his commitment to get the very best from a body of devoted but not always polished musicians. The hundreds of people who attended the standing-room-only concert agreed that the Amman Symphony had never sounded better than it did that night.

Our paths crossed again in 1997. I had traveled from Sarajevo, where I was serving as U.S. Special Envoy for the Bosnian Federation, for meetings with Swanee and other officials in Vienna. After the stresses of Sarajevo, what a pleasure it was to enjoy Charles’ and Swanee’s warm welcome. The most unforgettable moment, however, came when Charles and I attended a performance at the Vienna State Opera. During an intermission, we were together in the foyer of that venerable house when I noticed passers-by casting sidelong glances at Charles. Then I realized that he was standing directly in front of the bust of Gustav Mahler, whose reign as Generalmusikdirektor is still regarded as the Vienna State Opera’s grandest moment. The resemblance between Charles and Mahler was so strong that it gave even the unflappable Viennese pause!

Farewell, Charles, and thank you for all you’ve done over your brilliant career in the service of music and international understanding.

Ambassador Robert M. Beecroft
Mette O. Beecroft, Ph.D.
Bethesda, Maryland

Thanks for all he did... He brought a whole new experience for the us, classical music lover. He will forvered be missed. I was filled with happiness every summer at the bank of the Charles river, where the music helps me to enjoy my life and guild me to get through the depressed and difficulties.

In the late 70's and early 80's I served with Charles on the design and construction committee for the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts in Colorado Springs. This project would never have succeeded without Charles' drive, determination and brilliant strategy. Charles focus on acoustics and his calming presence and his ability to resolve conflicts between acousticians, architects and contractors resulted in a concert hall with unparalleled acoustics. This hall is certainly part of Charles legacy to the people of the Pikes Peak Region.

I am a native of Colorado Springs and I remember when Charles started having concerts in the parks during the summers. I would take my children and grandchildren and we all had a wonderful time listening and dancing to his wonderful music. I sure missed Charles when he left Colorado Springs in 1988 after his twenty years here. Later I had the pleasure to meet him personally with the marriage of his daughter and my son. Thank you Charles for all the wonderful memories of you and your wonderful music.

Margaret Shuff

As I discovered the wonders of the brotherhood of classical music and the outdoor, Charles and his orchestra branded my soul with their passionate sounds, melting with love, and surely slowing the magnificant setting sun over the flowing river Charles. May the Landmark Orchestra grow ever stronger as others inpirations burn with his....

His life was an ode to democratic ideals and humanitarian actions. I will miss his intellect, his wit, and his passionate belief in the value of art as ambassador. Hvala Lijepa, Charles!

The Garden Path:
In Memory of Charles Ansbacher
by Robert Murray

What a friend that Charles Ansbacher was.
What a friend of the world that Charles Ansbacher was.
He was tall, a man of stature, strength, and confidence
He was kind with a heart full of understanding and generosity.

He greeted everyone with a warm deep smile,
eyes looking kindly into theirs,
and a strong yet gentle handshake,
arms drawing them closer to him.

He left behind him a garden path
that was the path he lived his life on,
before him, a landscape in need of nutrients but full of potential,
and behind him, a world enriched, growing and nurturing its people.

To the ground that was me he sent a widow
Wanting to pass on her husband’s treasured record collection.
She asked of Charles that he give it to someone who
could appreciate the grandness of the patriotic British concert band tradition recorded there.

Why he picked me, to receive them I will never know, to have my garden nurtured,
but the music contained in the records was uplifting and grand,
inspiring me to meet this gentle widow and hear of her husband’s joy with this music.
Would you believe I became a band director two years later – with the widow at my first concert?

To the ground that was me he saw my many seeds.
In his quiet, warm, smiling way he nurtured me, made me blossom,
eyes, arms, and baton pulling ever more beautiful music from me
to give to the hearts of the audiences of his community’s orchestra.

Years later when I needed to express my feelings about the world around me,
I recalled with appreciation Charles’s belief in my abilities and nurturing of my growth.
The resulting belief in myself enabled me to try my hand at composing music
and writing words that bluntly address the world we live in.

It leaves much unsaid to state that he made Colorado Springs a garden
with an orchestra that, as a close network of friends,
has survived through better and worse, and even bankruptcy,
that contributes inspiration and leadership to its diverse community.

He nurtured the many leaders of our community, individually and in groups.
He gathered them together to pursue community projects
that would invite all the region’s peoples to enrich themselves and
helped them see themselves as part of a larger community that could do things together.

He personally lead the drive to build our beautiful, world-class, Pikes Peak Center.
It’s acoustically acclaimed concert hall provides an inspiring home for the symphony.
You can adjust stage size and shape, hall acoustics or amplification, pit presence and level and more.
This enables the center to host the best in concerts and shows of all kinds from all over the world.

That is what I saw, back then, when we lived in the same part of the garden,
but it is clear to me now that he saw much, much more.
He saw with wisdom and understanding and intelligence
the forest and the trees, the seeds, the flowers, the garden, and the world.

What would a man do when he has become aware of his ability to lead and build bridges?
What would a man do when he has become confident in his strength and kindness?
Join forces with someone whose garden has these same flowers?
Even better, marry an amazing gardener, an amazing flower, Swanee Hunt!

His marriage and the new life he would lead went down an increasingly fertile path
but on a bigger, state wide, nation wide, and even worldwide stage.
Other leaders who had met him saw his potential to unite folks
in creating a world that inspired and enriched all its people.

First during the planning for the building of Denver International Airport,
he chaired the committee responsible for the artistic content of the airport’s buildings.
“Artistic content of an airport?” say you.
“You have to see it to believe it,” say I.

Five story high open spaces filled with bigger than life representations
of the history and aspiration of this region’s peoples,
all under a glass dome bringing in the Colorado sunshine and blue sky!
And these are the “train” stations!

And everywhere you go there are windows high and low
emitting light, warmth, and a connection to the broader world,
plus murals, exhibits, beautiful ceilings, walls, and even floor designs, and comfortable areas to relax.
And throughout, there’s a sense of the great potential of goodness in mankind.

Being married to as amazing a person as Swanee Hunt
was bound to bring some fantastic opportunities to Charles.
Her appointment as the United States’ Ambassador to Austria brought him
some very interesting new gardens to nurture.

As “first lady” to the U.S. Ambassador to Austria,
or is that “First Sir” to “Madam Ambassador”,
he used his ability to lead skillfully and quietly behind the scenes.
And he used his ability to nurture and support others for Swanee and her work as ambassador.

The most amazing tale I’ve heard of Charles’s time there
was his leading a concert of inspiration toward a better life through shared human values
with an orchestra of players from Bosnia and Serbia, two peoples at war,
while all around them Sarajevo was being bombed.

This tale is but a small part of what Charles and Swanee accomplished while in Austria.
Even though they do not seek the limelight, history has already recorded their accomplishments there,
their courage, planting seeds, and tending to their growth.
As in a garden, he nurtured the people, bringing them together to create a more beautiful world.

Most of you know more than I of Charles’s works on behalf of the citizens of Boston.
The Boston Landmarks Orchestra, which he founded, developed, and now has given Boston as his legacy,
exemplifies his commitment to bringing together all the people in a community
to experience their universal aspirations as humans to make their world a better place.

Was he a cellist, a conductor, a friend, a man deeply committed to his family?
Was he a builder of bridges between people and peoples?
Was he an architect of a better future in the lands where he lived?
Was he a visionary humanitarian using the power of kindness to better the world?

Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes.

And yes, these things and this man we will keep in our hearts always.

September 15, 2010
Robert Murray
Principal French Horn, Colorado Springs Symphony / Philharmonic 1978 – 2006
Section French Horn, Colorado Springs Symphony Philharmonic 2006 – planned retirement in 2011
Concert Band Director, Colorado College 1989 - 2008

I am saddened by Maestro Ansbacher's too early death. I am also very grateful for his conception of the piece, The Journey of Phillis Wheatley, honoring the life of Phillis, a great poet and Bostonian who lived much of her early life and was educated in the home of my great great great great great grandfather, Captain John Wheatley, and his family.

IN MEMORY OF CHARLES

To Charles: In my mind's eye I will always see --

Your eyes of understanding, of caring,

Your smile of joy, delight, and warmth,

Your voice -- deep, assuring,

The lines of your brow showing concern, and sorrow,

The twinkle of the fun-loving adventurer in you,

Your spirit -- believing, believing in us, believing in the good of mankind,

Your courage to step forward and achieve the impossible,

Your determination enabling you to move mountains,

And your vision -- seeing ways to make a difference for each of us and for the world.
These things I will always remember and cherish. Thank-you, Charles, for living your life to the fullest to make the world a better place.

Your friend and musical colleague, Janet Albright

Even though our encounters with Charles were too few and far too brief, they were always warm and friendly. He was a burning light for musicians from all walks of life. I remember walking off stage at the Rose Kennedy Pavilion just after my band had played and his orchestra was about to go on. We had a chance for a brief chat and I was so impressed with his open-mindedness.

We had also talked about featuring him at the Express Yourself gala performance at the Citi Wahg Theatre in the spring. Paula and I were looking forward to that collaboration.

He is missed, but his joyous spirit lives with us all.

Yours truly,
Stan Strickland and Paula Conrad
co-executive directors,
Express Yourself

I remember Charles as a classmate at Brown ('65). My then girlfriend, now wife, is a flutist. Charles created so many opportunities for musicians to play outside of the university's standard groups. Most memorable was a performance of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in a dormitory lounge. What a creative and inventive person!

Thank you for the wonderful concert last night. A really beautiful tribute .

What a tribute! I so appreciate all the fine concerts on the Esplanade! The maestro always gave you insight to the music with his commentary. His love of music was so evident! He made the world a better place.

Myself and other Prime Movers were welcomed into the home of Charles and Swanee for reflection, friendship, and solidarity in the struggle for a more humane world. Charles' humanity continues in the people whose lives he touched.

Swanee-
The Memorial Concert for Charles was undoubtedly the most moving that any of us present have ever experienced, but watching you on Monday evening we were also deeply touched by a small action of yours. As you intimately caressed the backs of your children, during what is undoubtedly a time of such deep personal sorrow, you displayed for us all, the depth of your grace, tenderness and selflessness...the world has lost an amazing maestro, visionary and friend in the death of your husband, but he will carry on in you, through the love and care you provide to all you encounter.......Charles would be so proud of you!

I met Charles in the early '80s when I served as secretary for the Conductors Guild. Shortly thereafter he became president of the Guild, which eventually represented some 2000 conductors across the country. I had the pleasure of sitting with Charles at a good number of Board meetings in New York City. It was an exciting time because the Guild was then forming its own entity, no longer to be monitored by the American Symphony Orchestra League. Charles was dynamic at these meetings, showing great qualities of leadership and vision for the organization.

When I knew Charles then, I was struck by his warmth and his most noble and majestic presence. Early on, I respected him greatly for his poise, professionalism, and marvelous stentorian voice. He was clearly a man of substantial achievement and one to whom I might have looked for personal guidance. When I was a conducting student at the Aspen Music School and Festival in 1982, I ran into Charles there and he was happy to see me.

After my relocation to Boston in 2006, I learned that Charles conducted the Landmarks Orchestra. Eager to reacquaint, I met Charles after one of his outdoor summer concerts. He was very warm and he was pleased to know I was in Boston. At another time, I met him after a concert at the Sanders, and again, he showed interest in my activities and progress here.

In 2007, Charles asked me to serve as an assistant to the sound technician for one of the Hatch Shell concerts. He needed a qualified musician for this job. I was so glad to help him. First, in order to prepare, I was invited to attend his rehearsal with the orchestra near Porter Square one Saturday morning. He graciously introduced me to the orchestra as a colleague, had me sit directly behind him, and lent me the scores for the concert. It was great to see him in action and I saw an excellent conductor at work. I had a wonderful experience during the concert, helping the sound technician make decisions about what instruments to emphasize. That evening, the mayor spoke to the audience, with a great tribute to Charles for his contribution to the city of Boston. Following the concert, I joined Charles and the musicians backstage for a social celebration and refreshments.

I am very glad to have known Charles Ansbacher as a musical colleague and personal friend and wish I had the chance to know him better. Over the years, I realized that my early impressions were accurate. He was a man of great warmth, sincerity, humanity, and one who lived to the fullest his devotion to music, audiences, growth for a city, and on behalf of world peace. I am deeply saddened by his passing.
10/8/2010

One who passionately pursues music as the means of communicating with those
less fortunate has by virtue of love lived at a level of spirituality often unattainable.
How comforting to have shared a life with someone who saw beauty and became beautiful; who saw need and gave supply; who enhanced the lives of many and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Charles was an extraordinary human being whom I was priviledged to know and support. His legacy to the City of Boston will be of the same magnitude of another great Maestro -- Arthur Fiedler, which is that he made classical music accessible to all people thus removing the stigma of elitism. So grateful to have known him and thrilled that I had the opportunity to have enjoyed his work. I honor his life and legacy,with great respect and gratitude. Brava Maestro Charles!

I will always be grateful and inspired by the life Charles lived and the conversations we have had. I still remember the first time my former professor from Harvard Kennedy School (Swanee) introduced me to her husband Charles. Our inclusive security class was in their home, and Swanee introduced me to Charles after finding out my mom was also a conductor. Since our heart-warming conversations in their living room, Charles visited with my parents in Seoul, and I have been so grateful and blessed to have been able to continue crossing paths with Charles and Swanee over the years from school to life after graduation. They have made a very special impact on my life and hold a special place in my heart. I will remember Charles, his music, his advice and encouragement, and his heart he so generously and graciously shared, and I will celebrate his life as my family and I remember him.

I never personaly knew Charles in my own right, but I do know his son in law, Rodney Shuff. And, I was able to see how Charles made my uncle feel. He showed Rodney a world that he had only previously dreamed of, and in doing so, made him happier then I had ever seen him in my 24 years on this world. I would like to thank Charles for all that he has done for my uncle. And, that I am sorry for not getting the chance to know you the way he did. You will be missed.

I'm saddened at learning about the passing of Charles through the internet. I have been privileged to know both Ambassador Swanee Hunt and Charles since 1999.
I also watched him conduct in South African Orchestra on my home soil.
My Soul Sister, Ambassador Swanee, accept my condolences
Boitumelo
South Africa

My deepest condolences on the passing away of Charles Ansbacher, our companion of those heady days when the Women Waging Peace network took shape. I fondly remember during our days in Cambridge - the maestro musically winging us to the heights of exultation and then calm, or at the convivial evenings in Charles’s and Swanee’s welcoming home when Charles, along with Lillian and Theodore, became part of our families. They provided support, succour and humour to the hundred odd excited and excitable women gathered there. 


In these autumnal times, when so many of the people we loved who made us whole, leave us, I take joy in the shared moments of strength and exhilaration, and am deeply thankful for the gift of having been a part of their full and rich life. Charles too touched so many lives and he will be sorely missed. May God give comfort to all of you at this time of loss. 


Warmly, 


Rita Manchanda
India

My respect to all the persons who have the opportunity to share with Mr. Charles Ansbacher. I think that all the women who attended Boston in 2002, and had the opportunity to meet him, remember that he was a gentleman who made a contribution to the world with his music.

I send a note to give my respect to Ambassador Swanee.

Yours in peace,

Elizabeth Quiroa
Guatemala

The passing of Charles Ansbacher is a great loss for all the people who knew him and for us in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he will remain in constant remembrance with his music which brought light and hope for a better future.

Marina Pendes
Bosnia and Herzegovina

Thanks to Charles Ansbacher’s high art, we, people of different countries, found a common language and understood each other easier.

I will never forget the concerts in Boston, where I was fortunate to visit. And Muscovites, who have become accustomed to the annual concert of Charles, will remember him not only as a great musician, but as a man who brought in their house joy and hope by his art. Eternal memory and the kingdom of heaven to Charles.

Anna Ignatieva
Russia

I had the gratifying experience of meeting Charles, talking with him and enjoying his concerts. I feel so sad knowing that he has gone. However, I will always remember him as a sensitive, kind man, as well as a great orchestra conductor.
My warmest thoughts are with his family.
Luz Méndez
Guatemala

It was very sad to hear about the passing of Charles Ansbacher, a person that I remember since year 2001 when I was in Boston at the Colloquium of the Women Waging Peace Network. He with his group of the Boston Landmarks Orchestra, has conducted many nice concerts to welcome us. I still remember all his activity then.

His image, his charity activity is still alive in my mind.. never forget...

I would share my condolences to Ambassador Swanee Hunt and her family.

With Regretfulness,
Sieng Huy,
Cambodia

I am deeply saddened to hear about passing of Charles. I would like to express my sincere condolence to his family. His passing will leave void in the hearts of all of us who knew him.

Charles was more than just a wonderful person; he was so kind and considerate to all of us, guests at his and Ambassador Hunt’s home. I remember in 1999, after the war when Charles hosted a group of activists from my country at their home at Brattle Street while Swanee was away; he made us feel so comfortable in his presence and very privileged.

Charles’s concerts of music have enriched and made difference in the lives of so many people around the world. He will be always remembered with thankfulness.

At the same time as I am writing this letter I am listening to the music from the CD Charles gave me as a present during my last visit to Cambridge in 2008.

Vjosa Dobruna
Kosovo

We met, worked with and became friends with Swanee before she knew Charles. Billie remembers how pleased and excited she was when she met him and they started "going together". Then we next met him when he brought together a group of people at his home that became a lovely Home Concert Series for the Da Vince Quartet in Denver. Because Billie had not been exposed to classical music as a child she went to and was enchanted by two ice shows; Charles planned and conducted the beautiful music (one at the Denver Coliseum and one at an arena in Colorado Springs). But our nicest experience with Charles was when Swanee invited us to stay at the Ambassador's guest quarters for a few days in Vienna, and Charles, knowing how busy Swanee was, invited us to visit with him in his study there. It was a long warm friendly interesting conversation about our trip, Charles' work and Vienna. What a kind host he was.!

As a friend and colleague of Swanee's for many years in Denver Billie (and Dave as well) was so impressed with the way he used his music to further peace and friendship in the world -- the special concerts he gave, especially New Year's in Sarajevo, and the way he played music to celebrate and mark important events and make the world a better place. The world and the world of music and the city of Boston lost a good man.

Even more, we feel deeply for the loss to Swanee of her best friend and beloved husband, and to his children and grand children, and close friends, who lost a daily companion from their lives. He will not be forgotten.

A worthy aspiration for any us is to be loved deeply by any other human being. As evidenced by these inspiring comments, Charles is loved by the world.

With gratitude and respect,

Peter W. Pruyn
Cambridge, MA

What I liked most about Charles Ansbachers' concerts was the applause the followed every movement of a symphony. To me, that showed how many new listeners were present and being swept up in the awsome power of the music.

Here's a story I wrote about Charles for The Gazette in Colorado Springs:

Colorado Springs music lovers owe a significant debt to Charles Ansbacher.

The former Colorado Springs Symphony music director, who died Sunday night at 67, worked tirelessly to push for the ballot issue that would fund the Pikes Peak Center, and he helped ensure that the arts center’s acoustics would be state of the art.

More here.
http://www.gazette.com/entertainment/music-104577-colorado-ansbacher.html

This column was published in the Colorado Springs Independent:

Ansbacher: a final tribute
Between the Lines
by Ralph Routon

A man's dreams are an index to his greatness." — Zadok Rabinowitz

To anyone who lived in Colorado Springs during the idyllic 1970s and '80s, it didn't take long to learn about the city's musical champion.

You'd see Charles Ansbacher at Memorial Park every Fabulous Fourth, in person or on live local TV, hair flying in the summer breeze, leading the Colorado Springs Symphony through Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, exhorting the crowd and thrilling tens of thousands no matter how many times they'd heard it.

You'd catch him conducting the Christmas Pops on Ice, showcasing Broadmoor figure skaters from beginners to Olympians, and even lacing up his own skates to join the kids for the finale. You'd find him at City Council meetings, pushing elected leaders to invest in cultural events and causes. And whenever you thought about classical music here, you thought about the man who saw himself as not just a conductor, but a driving force for making this a better place to live.

Ansbacher spent his adult life turning ideas and dreams into reality. He left his mark on Colorado Springs, then literally around the world, and finally on one of America's most historic cities — Boston.

He belonged to us. But he also belonged to the people wherever he went, giving more of himself at every stop, even in the year after learning he had an inoperable brain tumor. Ansbacher, 67, passed away Sunday night in his Cambridge, Mass., home. He had scoffed at death as long as he could, sharing himself and his music, appreciating the honors and final accolades.

He long ago earned his place on the short list of people who added dimension to our quality of life. Think about the Springs' cultural highlights from the past four decades, including the creation of the Pikes Peak Center, and almost all have Ansbacher's fingerprints covering them.

It never was just a one-man show, either. Ansbacher became one of the Springs' most vibrant personalities, and he loved working with others: Bee Vradenburg, Eddie Shipstad, William Thayer Tutt, Phil Kendall, Kathleen Collins and so many more.

Ansbacher grew up in New England and trained to become a conductor in Cincinnati and Austria. He came to Colorado Springs as an energetic 28-year-old stranger, but soon made his mark with symphony general manager Vradenburg as his strongest ally. They started the July 4 extravaganzas, worked with The Broadmoor in starting Pops on Ice, and embarked on a nearly decade-long saga that finally produced the Pikes Peak Center in 1982.

Behind the scenes, Ansbacher spared no detail in creating world-class acoustics for the building that would house the symphony and visiting performers. He made sure it wasn't just for the elite, bringing in high school bands for festivals.

At 47, Ansbacher needed a new challenge in 1989. So he went to Denver, oversaw the arts-related input on the Denver International Airport's design, and then influenced the building of the downtown Temple Buell Theatre, much as he had done here. Eventually, he would conduct performances in more than 40 countries, but he still came back when opportunities arose.

His grand finale here was the memorable Three Maestri performance by the Philharmonic in February 2009, with Ansbacher joining his successor, Chris Wilkins, and current music director Lawrence Leighton Smith on the stage.Just a few months later, Ansbacher learned of his tumor and its death sentence. But he refused to stop conducting and enjoying life.

Ansbacher's final dream might have been his sweetest. He persuaded the Boston Red Sox to let his 10-year-old Boston Landmarks Orchestra, known for its free concerts, play a July performance at legendary Fenway Park. With 15,000 in the stands, Ansbacher and Wilkins took turns conducting the orchestra, and the Red Sox presented Ansbacher with an authentic jersey.

New ideas. New horizons and venues for classical music. Just like always.

But his impact on Colorado Springs was far too great for eulogies to suffice. We must make sure Charles Ansbacher is remembered, maybe by naming the Pikes Peak Center's main auditorium Ansbacher Hall. And if there's a photo somewhere of Ansbacher, baton in hand, contented smile on his face, that should be prominent.

All we have now are the memories. And we can't let them slip away.

— routon@csindy.com

The song "Ain't Got Time to Die" powerfully sung at his memorial services describes Uncle Charles' life to me. This determined man taught me how to be a good steward of the fleeing days I am given on this earth. The last hour I saw him, a week before he died, I heard him ask a Landmarks associate whether the date for next summer's gala had been set. Even in his dying, he was serving his community and cultivating abundant life. Thank you, Uncle Charles, for demonstrating for me a life of servant leadership. I join in with the chorus of voices saying we will miss you dearly.

Charles meant a great deal to all of us here in Colo. Springs. I will always remember the wonderful times of making music with him. He helped inspire all of us as he built the musical world surrounding him. I will always be thankful for his influence in my life and in my family's life. Even though Charles has left us here on earth he is with us in our memories and I am thankful for him. Don Robinson

I have had the privilege and luck to know Charles Ansbacher for 25 years. Our time together was infrequent but always enjoyable. We traveled to exotic places ( Yemen ), played tennis, discussed philosophy and history, and explored Charles' innovative ideas.
My most memorable time was in Vienna when Charles took me to a concert and patiently explained the intricate aspects of a working orchestra. Unfortunately, it was only half a lesson as his son, Teddy, had an accident and we left the concert to go to the hospital. Sadly Charles will not finish the lesson, but he did plant the seed to where I now enjoy concerts.
I, like many on these pages, am a better person because of Charles. His optimistic and focused desire to do good for his fellow beings and his calm demeanor have made me look at my life differently. I will miss him, but he lives in our memory and his great qualities provide a light on how to "live'.

In the short time I had gotten to know Charles I was so impressed by his courage and determination. He was a quite and humble man who had accomplished so much for so many. Boston was fortunate to have such a wonderful man who brought peace and harmony to the community with his music. I am grateful to know him!

We will hold forever a picture in our minds of Charles with his warm smile and genuine interest in all things good in his community and the world. We were privileged to work with him in some of his endeavors and , one in particular, was the opening celebration of Denver International Airport and the visual enhancement he spearheaded by leading the program that placed art throughout the facility.
In addition, our entire family had the gift of his special friendship highlighted with visits to Charles and Swanee's home in Cambridge, to the graduation party they hosted for our son Hayden, to the gathering that the Hirschfeld family hosted in our home together with the many friends and fans of Swanee and Charles that helped send them off on their move from Denver to Cambridge. Finally, Arlene will always remember visiting with Charles upon his and Swanee's return from King Hussein and Queen Noor's 20th wedding anniversary celebration. Charles took such joy in sharing stories about the celebration and the great love of this couple...particularly meaningful to him as he and Swanee shared that same love and devotion.
Simply said, along life's path there are certain people who enrich your life in special ways, and to us Charles has been and will continue to be, one of our great treasures. We have only the fondest of memories of this extraordinary gentleman.
With love and affection,
Arlene and Barry Hirschfeld

Dearest Brother Charles,

All I can say is, "I miss your presence...so very much!"

Sister June

Dearest Swanee,
"Music takes us out of the actual and whispers to us dim secrets that startle our wonder as to who we are, and for what, whence, and whereto." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson .....We are reminded of Charles......
I often think of the first concert we attended at Harvard at Sanders Theatre when Charles conducted. From the balcony, I remember thinking the deep connection between you and Charles through your shared passion for music. As we grew to know Charles better, we came to love his earnest interest in all things and people. His imagination, his sense of fairness and deep committment to create music for all to enjoy....His delight at the enjoyment he brought to everyone who attended his free concerts and his committment to bring music into those lives. He was a genuine original, a deeply caring soul, and up to our last conversation, he inquired about us, our lives, our happiness, he reached out for an intimate moment of authenticity in our connection. Our memories keep us deeply connected to an extraordinary person who brought beauty to the universe.
Roxanne and Mardy Cason

people say: behind a strong man, there is always a strong woman.
but the other way around also applies here. when charles came to icg meetings with swanee and we had the opportunity of dining together we understood charles was a cool, supportive man who liked to see women empowered and was always there for swanee to do her work of getting more women in positions of leadership. cheers to a creative man who loved and appreciated creative women. rest in peace while we continue the pursuit of promoting arts & culture for positive change, charles!!!

iara lee+ george gund

we came to love his earnest curiosity about all things and people. His imagination, his a feeling of fairness and deep committment to create music for those to enjoy....His delight at the enjoyment he delivered to everyone who attended his free concerts and the committment to bring music into those lives. He was a genuine original, a deeply caring soul, Thanks, Maestro Ansbacher - for the music and for your warm, human and open heart! Rest in peace!

Charles, even though almost a year has passed since you left us, I constantly am reminded of how many lives you gently but effectually touched. When I think of an example of how extraordinarily multidimensional life can be, yours is the model which comes to mind. Whether it was music, physical art, mentoring, public education, the process of bringing music to so many people, inspiring musicians and audiences alike, contributing time to one’s community, promoting peace, encouraging others, raising a family, supporting an extraordinary spouse, and just showing us how to be both human and humane, the quality and magnitude of your life was overwhelming.

The way you cared about not just making music for everyone but the musicians as well was paralleled by the way you cared about physical forms of art. For me, my most immediate and commonly-occurring connection is your legacy at Denver International Airport. It not only lives today on such a grand scale but remains a model and a standard for the entire world. It was achievements such as this which keep you alive today in so many ways.

I was honored to be invited to the DIA “Surprise Party” Swanee somehow managed to organize without your knowledge. When I was told it would be your last visit to Denver and then saw how great you looked, I found that hard to believe. You still had that extraordinary twinkle in your eye. Your laugh and smile came as easily as always. You sounded great and were as magnanimous as ever. I later found it almost impossible to believe you were gone just several months after that event.

I hope everyone gets a chance to watch the video of the dedication (click on http://bit.ly/CharlesA to see it). It was so much fun to see how surprised you were when you came out of the elevator and suddenly saw a throng of your friends and family. Henry and the kids did a great job of fooling you.

Most of all, I loved how the DIA dedication recognized your important contribution to the worlds of art and the thousands of globetrotters coming through DIA every day who benefitted from your visionary efforts. You almost singlehandedly turned the Airport into an Art Museum. And even the building itself became a work of art --- setting a standard which we know should be followed all over the planet.

Most travelers don’t realize that even the little propellers we all see when riding the DIA trains are thanks to you (and I confess, I delight in them as much as the 7 year-old kids next to me). Of course, we all know about the Demon Steed, but that’s another discussion!

I have encouraged many people to walk to Concourse A --- rather than ride the train one stop --- just so they can see the dedication to you on the wall and walk through “Charles Ansbacher Hall” (isn’t that why they called it Concourse “A” in the first place?). It is a wonderful reminder of just one of the many initiatives you undertook to make this world a better place.

I knew you more through Swanee and was always amazed at the wonderful bond you two had and how you both nurtured that relationship. The way you loved Swanee was so wonderful but I confess today I worry about her missing you so much. And having seen her recently, despite her incredible strength, I could palpably feel how much your absence always will mean. Who could blame her?

Charles, in the end, you taught us life is about making our world a better place. I can hear you now, gently encouraging us to make friends, make music, make other art, make love, and make peace. You were one of the few people on the planet who could do all of these at once --- and sometimes in a single act. I know you’re looking down on all of us and smiling as we feebly try to follow in your footsteps. It is difficult without you. You always will be missed.

I'm grateful for the privilege of having seen Charles on my last visit. His courage and sweetness will remain with me always.

Devotedly,
Paul Buttenwieser

When a tour group of White House Fellow Alumni visited Vietnam in March of 2010, Charles and Swanee were also there. Charles was leading the Landmarks Orchestra in the first visit of an orchestra from the United States to play in the Hanoi Opera House since the Vietnam War. Charles was magnificent, leading the orchestra in "The Stars and Stripes Forever" as the final number. Unmatched by any concert I have attended.

I know he's conducting orchestras of angels - and someday we'll all hear him again!
Nancy Dieterich

It was a pleasure and an honor to get to know him - his love of music and life was infectious and inspiring.
Dan Hunter
Hunter Higgs

We remember him at family reunions being so very kind and humble. He was always interested in others and made us feel very special.
Sending you love and hugs,
Chris, Ashlee, Connie, Tyler & T.J.

Charles was much loved.
Sincerely,
Paul & Mary Pennock

We were reminiscing about the long association we enjoyed with Charles here in Denver and for so many years in Colorado Springs. However, he reached so much further then Colorado.

A few years ago, we visited the newly reopened Opera House in Palermo. The first question asked by our guide, a colleague of our daughter's, was "Do you know Charles Ansbacher?" He conducted our splendid opening concert. We were happy to say that we were well acquainted.

The Boston Landmark Concerts were so real to me even though I never attended one. My Boston niece enjoyed so many and related to me how wonderful they were.

I remember also a friend visiting me after having lunch in a Colorado Springs restaurant near Colorado College. She told me Charles was there nuzzling a really cute blond. That was our introduction to Swanee.

And, of course the lovely pictures you took of Charles located in DIA are a great comfort to us all.
Always,
Shirley & Stewart Bliss