Tribute:
Our Five Retirees
GRSMA recognizes the five musicians who will be leaving the Grand Rapids Symphony at the end of this season. Several of their colleagues have written a tribute to celebrate Mary Jane, Christine, Diane, Rick, and Kathy.
Mary Jane Miller, viola
“After many years of putting her whole heart into every note, Mary Jane is setting down her viola and beginning a wonderful new chapter in her life. She brought humor and a great love of life to every rehearsal and every performance. Her love of Mahler says so much about who she is — she is drawn to music that is gorgeous and full of feeling, just like her. The viola section will not be the same without her there. She leaves behind beautiful memories of music, plus a warmth that touched everyone lucky enough to know her. Thank you, Mary Jane, for the memories. See you in the audience.” Olga Ziabrikova, viola.
Christine Golden and Diane McElfish Helle, violins
“For Christine Golden, those 46 years must now seem to have gone by in a flash: four music directors, three CEO search committees, being a proud member of the first Instrument Discovery group, relishing the chance to play chamber music with colleagues on the GRS Heritage Hill chamber music series, artistic highs, and even pops concerts in shopping malls. Through it all, Christine has been a steadfast presence, bringing her inquisitive, nurturing nature and dry wit to work every day. Her remarkably generous support for her colleagues over all these years has been truly inspiring and moving to see. We look forward to still seeing her in the audience enjoying music performed by her fellow GRS musicians. Christine, we will miss you terribly, but are thrilled that now you can finally focus on your mandolin playing! All the best to you.” Chris Martin, violin.
“What can I say about Diane McElfish Helle? Plenty! Diane’s enthusiasm for classical music and our profession is endless. From the work that she did to create the GRS Music for Health initiative to serving on practically every committee that you can imagine, Diane always brought her inquisitive style and boundless energy into the room. I have learned so much from working with Diane and discovered that we have a lot in common: sharing a birthday on May 25th, earning degrees from Cincinnati’s CCM, and having a strong desire for our orchestra to be a vital part of West Michigan. Thank you, Diane, for all you have given to your GRSMA colleagues since joining us in 1980.” Paul Austin, horn.
Richard Britsch, horn
“For those of us lucky enough to have shared the stage with Rick Britsch, it has been impossible not to admire his extraordinary musicianship but also the spirit he brought to every rehearsal, performance, and backstage moment. We will all remember his kindness, his thoughtful nature, and his wonderfully goofy sense of humor! Over the years, Rick has been more than a principal horn player. He has been a colleague, mentor, and friend. Rick’s influence, laughter, and example will continue to resonate with all of us in the Grand Rapids community for years to come. Congratulations, Rick, and thank you for the music, the friendship, and all the unforgettable moments along the way.” Charley Lea, trumpet.
Kathleen Gomez, oboe/English Horn
“Kathy has been a steady presence in my life, like a close sibling, always being there. We have experienced a lot together and have had many ups and downs. I don’t know anyone who can hold it together with dignity better than she can. Kathy is a model orchestral citizen who puts diplomacy and a positive attitude above her own needs. During her 45 years with the Grand Rapids Symphony, she has played so many gorgeous English horn solos, way too many to count, always with her signature full, rich sound filling the hall. Fun fact: Kathy has an unusually keen ear and — I swear this is true — I have never asked her, “where are we?” or “what’s the count?” without her knowing the answer. She has been an absolute rock with us for 45 years. Hats off to Kathy. She is one of a kind.” Alexander Miller, oboe.
GRSMA wishes Mary Jane, Christine, Diane, Rick, and Kathy the best as they enter their next chapter, and thanks them for all that they have done for us.