The Eastman School of Music hosted a tribute on Sunday to Douglas Lowry, the former dean of that school who died of cancer in early October at the age of 62.
The program at the Eastman Theatre included memories and music.
The music included several pieces played by students, such as "Geo," the piece that Lowry composed for the opening of Kodak Hall after its extensive renovation, and performed Sunday by the Eastman Philharmonia.
The accolades came from educators and musicians, including Joseph Polisi, the President of the Juilliard School who noted that some administrators in higher learning are perceived as being out of touch with their faculty and students.
"It is also the case that once in a while a transformative leader comes upon the scene and brings new energy and excitement to a community and its people, so it was with Doug. "
Lowry's three children also spoke of the love their father showed to their family, including comments from his daughter Melanie.
"To be present in a room like this with friends and family who are all brought together by one person, by my hero, it's heartwarming, and there's just not enough time to truly exemplify how he touched all of our lives and how he touched my life "
A central hall in the Eastman School of Music has also been named after Douglas Lowry, but many of those who spoke on Sunday said one of his most enduring legacies will be the impact he had on students and the entire field of music education.
