Kalmen Opperman
Master Clarinetist & Teacher
In Memoriam Page Two
In no particular order
Notes, emails, messages to Louise,
whatever is on your mind
Fredrik Fors
Associate Principal Oslo PhilharmonicI send my deepest condolences to Louise and the rest of the Oppermanfamily for the loss of Kalmen.
I first learned about Kal when I bought his book "Masterstudies" around 2000. After working slowly through the book I noticed that my playing improved-AND the exercises were great fun! I became so curious about this man that I felt I wanted to contact him. At least to compliment him on great books-maybe even to play for him!
I called Kal and was invited to NY for a lesson the next time my orchestra, the Oslo Philharmonic, would visit NY on a tour. And what a lesson! It was nothing like I had ever experienced before. I played from his studies and we worked on sound,staccato, reeds ETC. I was amazed to learn that Kal had a clear, precise and beautiful concept of every aspect of playing the clarinet. And he communicated these concepts with such intensity and passion. The lesson started 10 AM and finished about 4.30 PM-just enough time for me to run down to Carnegie Hall for my rehearsal and concert!
Since then I have come back to NY for a number of more lessons with Kal. Since I live far away from NY we had several lessons over the phone! The last time I met Kal for lessons was as late as January this year. Altough he was tired, and actually teaching lying down in his bed, I still had two great lessons! Thinking back today I can almost not believe that Kal was already past 80 the first time we met. I think he had the energy and the spark in his eyes like a young man!
Kal taught me the importance of hard work in combination with a very clear concept. He sure showed all of us, that by working hard and consistantly over many years, you can reach the highest level of mastery. I can`t express my gratitude enough for what Kal has done, and still does, for my playing.
I think about him every time I put together my clarinet.Raffaele Del Mastro
I'm raffaele italian clarinet teacher, I met Mr Kal in his studio in New York
in the 1995 for few lessons (I was living in Boston that time). I always have
in my mind his way to approach clarinet studying. I'm very grateful to Mr Kal
for his advices frank and realistic but in the same time sincere and
encouraging. I found in Mr Kal not only a teacher but also a friend: in 1996
for Xmas he sent me a postcard in Italy, I was very touched that time. I'm
sorry the distance didn't allow me to see he more. I will feel gratitude and
affection to Kal & Weez for ever.Larry Grupp
I am sorry to learn of Kal's passing. baruch dayan emet. I have heard about the sayings and epithets that Kal had on his studio walls. Please send me a few, if you can.Mindy Desens
Oh Louise, we just learned tonight of Kal’s death. Both Jason and I are morning (SIC) his loss, and wondering how you’re doing. I can honestly say that you and Kal are two of my favorite people in the world, and while it’s too late to call you tonight, I’m going to call you soon. It was so clear that you were utterly devoted to Kal, and you were so good for him (as he was for you). My heart goes out to you, I hope you’re okay, and if you want to get away from the city for a while we would absolutely love you to come to Minnesota and stay here on the farm with us.
I treasure the time I spent with you in May.
All my best,
Mikki Ryan
Words can’t express the sorrow and shock I felt when hearing this sad news. Mr. Opperman had such energy and determination I believed we would be celebrating his 100th birthday at Carnegie Hall!
The world will remember him as a magnificent musician, teacher and artisan, but my memory will also be of a magnificent, caring human being. When I moved to New York City, Mr. Opperman and Louise treated me like family for which I am eternally grateful. I am truly honored to have known him and learned from him.
My thoughts and prayers are with Louise and their family during this difficult time.Peace and Love
Katsuya Yuasa
Everyday in the early morning, I would practice with Mr. Opperman's warm-up exercises and have always dreamed to meet him someday. When I heard he passed away just recently, my heart broke and sad, but my admiration has never stopped increasing; a true clarinet legend he was.
Not only was he a great clarinetist and composer, he was also a great mouthpiece and barrel creater. The true sound of color that each provide in clarinet is really significantly impressive. In memory of Kalmen Opperman, I would more than love to buy his barrel.
RIP Kalmen Opperman
Kind RegardsProf. Emeritus Wm. Scarlett
I studied With Kalmen in summers of 1957,'58 &'59 plus periodic lessons till the 80's.The 1st lessons In '57 were particularly advantageous since I was in my beginning year as instructor of clarinet at the University of Tn and principal clarinetist of the Knoxville Symphony. Kal took me thro the "classic" orchestra studies plus studies from his books.I also learned reed making that summer! I'll never forget that first lesson:I got my B flat out & handed it to Kal. While I was turned around getting my A Kal had the B on the floor with 3 or 4 keys off! I didn't know that he was the great mechanic he was but shortly he had it back together & it played better. WHEW! To say that Kal's lessons were beneficial to me is an understatement!At 81 yrs. I still practice his teachings.I will always remember Kalmen as a great teacher,great player,great craftsman & a wonderful friend.Frank G. Delo Jr.
I spent relatively little time with Kal over the years, but those moments have been of immeasurable significance to me. Compared to some of his more successful and senior students, I feel almost ashamed to express my own bereavement, yet here it is. Hearing him declare in our lesson "he could do this..." and tell me to "BE SOMEBODY!" have meant worlds to me. A few choice words from a great man mean much, and his have shaped my course thus far. I will strive as much as I am able to live a life that honors Kal's legacy and his acknowledgement of my potential. My words cannot wholly express my gratitude. Thank you for everything.Mike Getzin
I was at the OK Clarinet Symosium this week when we were informed of Kal's passing away so the word got out quickly. I was at the Weill Recital Hall 90th Birthday concert for him. I will post Kal on the WKA In Memoriam Page tonite and hope you check it later or tomorrow.
www.wka-clarinet.orgDave and Ursula Throckmorton
Dear Louise, We are saddened at the news of Kals passing. Having known him only briefly when we met at your Mom and Dads house on several occasions, we were impressed with his kindness and his superb intellect.
We will miss him.
May God rest his soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
With Love
Susan Eberenz
Hi there,
I found some recent (well maybe from around Nov 2009) photos of Ousie and Kal. Just wanted to share these with the rest of you. Too bad I don't have a tape of his "lecturing" to go with the photos. Actually I remember most of our talk. Something to the tune of "So get off your ass!" , "Get out there and Do it!"
There's no love like "TOUGH LOVE". And I'm honored to have received so much of it from Kal.
Wishing you all the best.Denise Gainey
Kal and Louise Opperman changed my life during the years I spent studying with Kal, and only part of it dealt with the clarinet. At my first lesson (which actually began at breakfast :) he tore apart everything I did, and then encouraged me to find the strength to make the changes in my playing that have made a huge impact. He demonstrated total dedication to one's craft, in every aspect of his life. Both Kal and Louise gave a wonderful example of love, courage, and living the life you were meant to live-- no matter the sacrifice. There were so many things I still had to ask him, and I am sad that we have lost such a legend. Much, much love to Louise and the Opperman family. We, Mr. Opperman's students, will carry on the torch-- as he would have wanted. "Practice and hope...but never hope more than you practice!"
Copyright 2010 Kalmen Opperman. All rights reserved.