by Daniel Hathaway & Mike Telin
One of the best-known and most cherished members of Cleveland’s community of classical freelance musicians died suddenly on Saturday evening. James Meyers, 62, was recording a concert at Kent State University, where he served as director of recording services, when he suddenly collapsed and could not be revived.
We knew Jim as a longtime member of Trinity Chamber Orchestra and Trinity Chamber Players who also recorded many of our concerts and conducted on a number of occasions. In the last year, he also become a correspondent for ClevelandClassical.com, writing concert and CD reports for the web site.
But Jim, who studied at Oberlin, Kent State and CSU and spent three years teaching at Haverford College in Bryn Mawr, PA, played in and conducted every conceivable instrumental ensemble in Cleveland’s freelance world.
Among his most recent projects was old time radio drama, and he participated in the development of ‘Radio Boy’ at Geauga Lyric Theater and elsewhere.
Jim will be sorely missed by a multitude of colleagues and acquaintances. As George Faddoul, one of his longtime mentors, said on Sunday, “Jim had his hands in so many things, and I don’t know anyone who had so many friends. We joked about holding a party for a hundred of his closest friends, and that could be absolutely true.”
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 13 at noon (not February 27 as previously announced) at Garfield Memorial Church Family Life Center, 3650 Lander Road in Pepper Pike. For planning purposes, the family requests that you please inform Jim’s cousin Beverly Choo by email if you plan to attend.
The Kent State University School of Music will hold a memorial concert for Jim on Saturday, February 13th at 3:00 p.m. in Ludwig Recital Hall. A memorial concert in Cleveland is in the planning stages.
ClevelandClassical.com would like to develop a collaborative “Life of James Meyers” in his memory. We invite those who knew and worked with Jim over the years to contribute their reminiscences below in the form of comments. If you have a digital picture of Jim, please send it to lorraine@clevelandclassical.com and we will add yours to the gallery we posted on January 28.
60 comments
January 25, 2010 at 3:41 pm
Luane Lasky
My first meeting with Jim was back in the mid-1950′s. Jim was a third grader at Boulevard School in Cleveland, and I was the orchestra teacher. One morning before school, Jim appeared in the orchestra room — and quietly and gently asked if he could begin ‘cello lessons. For an eight-year-old boy, he appeared unusually poised and calm, in spite of his obvious enthusiasm for the ‘cello! I sensed we had a winner!
I called his mother to explain that protocol demanded that string lessons begin in the fourth grade, but that her son was at the top of the list for the next year. And indeed Jim did begin school lessons the following year. Alas, I had been transferred to other schools, and didn’t have the pleasure of teaching him.
However, the pleasure was mine many years later, when our paths crossed. I enjoyed exploring and playing chamber music with Jim for many years in various settings. He shared generously his knowledge of chamber music literature and music in general — always pleasant, inspiring, and totally committed to the music he played so well — a born teacher. I feel grateful for being able to share that experience with Jim.
In recent years, his courage in dealing with his medical problems was an outstanding example of grace under fire. He seemed to accept and make the best of what had been dealt him. His love of life never seemed to diminish — he continued to look forward to the next day, the next task, and the next chance to learn something new!
We were all fortunate to have known Jim Meyers.
January 25, 2010 at 4:22 pm
Gary Davis
Jim was a kind gentle man, with a warm quick smile. We worked together many times and he will be missed in the musical community of Northeast Ohio.
January 25, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Steve Ostrow
Jim may be gone, physically, but he will stay with us in our hearts and memories. But, we will miss him on this physical plane. May he go in peace.
January 25, 2010 at 5:43 pm
Bonnie Maky-Rosen
I always looked forward to seeing Jim at rehearsals or on jobs, and felt privileged to know him and play with him the last 25 years or so. One thing we talked about and never got around to was a group viewing of one of his favorite movies, “The Ghost and Mrs. Muir.”
Jim was always willing to do favors for people when he could, like work on our electricity and make a CD recording of some voice mails we wanted to preserve.
He also cheerfully recorded and played in Betty’s musical composition for her 7th grade project, and played her string quartet movement from senior (high school) project in 2008.
What a loss to all of us–Bonnie, Marc, and Betty
January 25, 2010 at 6:10 pm
Bob Mollard
Seeing and greeting Jim at a gig was always a special moment. What a gentle soul. We sat through numerous rehearsals and concerts of cloudy merit, and to my utter amazement, he always had a peaceful smile on his face. I certainly will not forget him. And as Steve has said above, may Jim indeed be at great peace.
January 25, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Michael Bishop
Jim and I worked together often back in the 70s & early 80s. He was always a first-call session player and arranger on countless recording sessions back in the day when REAL STRINGS were employed on recording projects. I remember Jim as being one of the nicest, kindest people I knew among the many musicians that came through the studio. He often stuck around after long sessions just to talk about the biz, life or just anything. It was always a joy to work with Jim.
It may have been over two decades since I last saw Jim, but I’ve thought of him often in that time. Our paths just never crossed anymore in all that time. Every once and awhile I’d hear about Jim’s work in recording or performing and think of our “good ol’ days” of the studio biz and of Jim’s part in making them good times. I know Jim’s absence will be felt by many. Play on, Jim!
January 25, 2010 at 11:05 pm
Jonathan Fairman
I can’t recall how many years I have known Jim or when it was I first met him. I will never forget out conversations over the past few years after Hermit Club and Chagrin Studio rehearsals. He loved performing and was always positive. His enthusiasm for the radio project was so sincere I had hoped to join him this month and share in the project. I will miss him.
January 25, 2010 at 10:59 pm
Jeffrey Quick
Jim played for my graduate composition recital, back in the days when he played with Cleveland Chamber Symphony, before his health problems kicked in. And he did some recording of some choral works of mine. He was one of the most fundamentally decent human beings I have ever met.
January 25, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Ken Wadenpfuhl
Meek in spirit, gentle soul, gracious to everyone – I never heard him utter an ill word about anyone. Such a privilege to have known him and be considered friend.
January 25, 2010 at 11:45 pm
mike telin
It was a great privilege to know and to be able to work with Jim. Over the past 20 years I often called on him to lend his assistance, because you always knew you could count on him to do a great job with grace and professionalism. Most recently when we were looking for another contributor to Cleveland Classical we knew it had to be someone who was knowledgeable, a good writer, and above all, someone who’s opinion would be respected. It took about a half a second to say Jim Meyers. When asked if he was interested, he responded in that special way that he had of making you feel as though you had just bestowed him a great honor for simply asking. As much as we all try, I’m not sure that we say thank you enough. So Jim, THANK YOU a thousand times for always being there. You will be missed.
January 26, 2010 at 12:51 am
Becky Ensworth
I’ll always remember Jim as a great friend and wonderful listener. He was like a big brother that would comfort you if you were upset about anything.
I have many fond memories of playing quartet gigs with Jim, Carol Ruzicka and Bonnie Maky back in the 1980′s and early 1990′s. If I wanted to get a groan out of Jim, I would suggest playing the Pachelbel Canon. (The cello part was way too dull for Jim!) We used to joke that Carol and Jim acted like an old married couple because of the way they would argue about musical subtleties. (Forgive me, Carol…!)
Back when we lived in Shaker Heights, my husband and I offered to host a going away party for Jim before he left for his job at Swarthmore College. Little did we know back then how many devoted and loyal friends Jim had…We didn’t know our house could fit so many!
You can’t help but smile when you think of the many fun times with Jim. We will miss you, Jim, but you are forever a part of each one of us.
Becky and Clint Ensworth
January 26, 2010 at 1:54 am
Serge Krauss
Jim was one of the kindest, most joyful, entertaining, and fundamentally decent people I’ve known. While we were aware of each other for quite a few years (he played in or conducted every one of my orchestras at some time), I had not had the opportunity to spend time with him until relatively recently, after Hermit Club or Chagrin rehearsals. I found myself looking forward to those occasions and will greatly miss them and his friendly, joyous erudition. I can think of very few people I’ve known who could so easily make one feel valued and appreciated as could Jim. What a sad loss to everyone who knew him or would have encountered him. What a fine person and friend to all!
SK
January 26, 2010 at 9:26 am
John Gordon Ross
Jim Myers was a fine musician and a fine man. He had a wonderful sense of humor. In spite of physical setbacks in later years, his sense of fun and his love of people never dimmed. Heaven will be significantly enriched by his presence, but our musical community will surely miss him.
January 26, 2010 at 10:21 am
Renee Hendershott
Jim served about four years as conductor of Symphony West, a community orchestra in North Olmsted. We all loved him even though sometimes he would drive us crazy with last minute changes before performances. When he left the orchestra to pursue other endeavors, I was saddened, for he was a true contributor to the orchestra and a friend.
January 26, 2010 at 10:59 am
clevelandclassical
With his permission, these are forwarded remarks from Robert Finn, retired music critic of the Plain Dealer:
I was truly shocked to learn on Sunday afternoon of Jim Myers’s death. I had known Jim for many years and knew how active he was in the Cleveland musical communiry.
Just last season he did me a great favor by agreeing on short notice to deliver two pre-concert talks at concerts of the Cleveland Chamber Music Society even though we could offer him no payment beyond free tickets to the concerts. I attended one of those talks, and it was first-rate. He was truly delighted to be asked to do this, and he did an splendid job.
He also gave me a CD containing two of the original radio plays he had worked up as a kind of sideline hobby recently.
I quite agree with your statement that he was involved in so many different musical activities that hardly anyone knew about all of them. In fact, it was Jim who first alerted me to the existence of ClevelandClassical.com a year or so ago. Were it not for Jim I would not be a subscriber today.
I will watch for announcements of those memorial concerts.
January 26, 2010 at 11:06 am
George Pope
Jim was one of the first persons I met when I moved to Ohio in 1972 when he and George Faddoul welcomed me into the recording studio at KSU to help prepare an audition tape. Jim’s open-hearted and open-armed greetings were the warmest welcome anyone could receive. I had the privilege of playing a lot of chamber music with Jim over the years, and recall some of my greatest musical joys in a Cleveland Chamber Winds concert that Jim conducted, and the several performances of a chamber suite of “Porgy and Bess” that he coordinated, arranged and played in. Jim was such a natural musician that his spirit and joy shone through every note he played and every project he embraced, with impeccable instincts, impeccable ears and that delicious singing sound. His impact on my life will continue, and I will miss him.
January 26, 2010 at 11:42 am
Greg Moore
First met Jim while at Kent State in the early 70′s. It was always a joy to listen to him play, talk to him about his love of recording and music. Our paths continued to cross in the Cleveland Schools where he occasionally was a music sub. Finally we played together in the Hermit Club Orchestra as he continued to play his cello!
January 26, 2010 at 12:31 pm
Sally Long
I met Jim in the early 1990s when I threw my first New Years’ Eve chamber music party. He was invited as a friend of a friend – and that year and every year after he was the first to arrive and last to leave! He was a joy to talk to and play with.
His enthusiasm and open heart will be missed.
January 26, 2010 at 1:29 pm
Josef Knott
It was with heartfelt sadness that I learned of Jim’s passing. I met Jim shortly after I arrived at Kent State to be Director of the Hugh A. Glauser School of Music [2005-2008]. I remember our first conversation, and although it was a contractual meeting, I gleaned immediately that I was in the presence of a thoughtful, caring and gentle man with an engaging smile. Subsequent conversations and observations confirmed a gentle soul and a man who took great pride in his work; he did his work quietly and without drama, ever the consummate professional. It was a privilege to have worked closely with him, and I will never forget his thoughtfulness and kindness.
Jim I will always remember your grace and your smile.
January 26, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Michelle Neudeck
I had the pleasure of serving as president of Symphony West Orchestra while Jim was the conductor. I was continually amazed by his knowledge and his seemingly endless talents. He brought so much to our orchestra. He will be greatly missed.
January 26, 2010 at 2:47 pm
Gene Epstein
James Fowler Meyers was my stand partner in the Oberlin Conservatory Orchestra in 1967 and 1968. He also had the photo bug, and took a string of photographs of me during that time that I still cherish. When I attended Kent State for graduate school in art, Jim was there in the Music department. He introduced me to George Faddoul and to the Kent String Quartet, who allowed me to draw during some of their rehearsals. Though our paths didn’t cross often in the intervening years, our friendship was always there. When I visited Jim in the hospital after his amputation, though he was obviously in some pain he talked about how helpful the staff were and how grateful he was to his cousins for saving his life. No matter what challenges he faced, Jim always was looking optimistically to the future – the next project, the next musical event. It was a pleasure to bump into him at concerts – his enthusiasm for music and for life was infectious.
January 26, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Elizabeth Lucas
I’ve known and loved Jim since our early days together at the Kent State School of Music. His infectious laugh and gentle warmth, his amazing generous spirit and his profound musicality made him a treasured friend and colleague. During my tenure volunteering for Music and Performing Arts at Trinity, there was never a TCO concert at which I didn’t receive a famous “James Meyers hug. ” I cherish those moments. In recent times, Jim was our recording engineer for my professional handbell choir, The River Valley Ringers, and it was Jim’s recording of our live Christmas concert in 2008 and his wonderful talents at mixing the recording and finding a producer for us that led to the release of our debut CD. We will dedicate our Spring concert to his memory. My heart aches at this devastating news.
January 26, 2010 at 10:47 pm
Patricia Flowers
Jim was a lifelong friend dating back to the early 70’s when we were at Kent. During those years we played music together, enjoyed friends, travel, meals, and photography. Mostly we just shared time—discussing practical philosophy, listening to music, commenting on human behavior, and giving each other good advice. I remember conversations about the late Beethoven quartets, admonitions about crooked auto mechanics, and a cherished introduction to his mother who taught me “It’s never too late to do good.” I knew him well, and loved him. How could anyone not love Jim Meyers? We went for periods of time without being in touch after I left NE Ohio, but then we would talk and it was like no time had elapsed. We told new stories but he remained the same kind, gentle, and gracious person I had known 10, 20, 30 years ago. Jim was modest and would be embarrassed by the effusion of praise being heaped upon him. But there was no better person. He bestowed riches on all who knew him and his memory is a source of joy. Peace.
January 26, 2010 at 11:34 pm
MARGE ADLER
Jim radiated in his quiet way such a positive sense of community. Jim’s presence could literally change the energy in a room — with his gracious manner, genuine love of people and unshakeable passion for music.
He was a true gentleman.
January 27, 2010 at 12:53 am
Rebecca Harper
I first met Jim at Kent State University, where we’d frequently roam the music school halls. We worked together for years in commercial music at many different recording studios. In the past few years, Jim joined me at Divine Word in Kirtland to play for Christmas and Easter services. I am honored to have known such a gentle, amiable and light-hearted man and I shall miss my dear friend very much.
My husband laments, “Jim’s the only one who ever understood all my jokes.”
Very true, honey, very true.
January 27, 2010 at 7:43 am
eugenia strauss
Jim recorded and edited our CD for our first commissioned work for CityMusic Cleveland, Margaret Brouwer’s Violin Concerto. This CD was favorably reviewed by Gramophone and Fanfare Magazines, earning CityMusic national and international exposure.
He was, and I am still stunned by his sudden death, an incredible man, who quietly and joyfully was present at many of our concerts.
eugenia strauss
citymusic cleveland chamber orchestra
January 27, 2010 at 11:26 am
Nancy Cooke
I was lucky enough to know Jim for 30 years–as fellow musician in orchestras, quartets, and occasional gigs–and always had special admiration for his brilliant, thoughtful, wide-ranging and articulate love of music. Jim never drew attention to himself; it was always about the music, or about others. I cherish the memory of reading through the late Beethoven quartets with him many years ago.
He dealt with his illness with such gallantry, and radiated enthusiasm for life. Bravo, Jim. I’ll miss you.
January 27, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Eric Benjamin
It’s hard to believe we won’t be seeing Jim again at those rehearsals or concerts.
He could be discerning in his opinions but express them with such affection and encouragement. What a gift to us all.
January 27, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Joanne Durante
As a part of the Radio Boy project that Jim inspired last summer, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him. His gentle and encouraging demeanor were a gift to everyone who knew him. Please let us know if anything is being planned to honor his memory. Joanne Durante
January 27, 2010 at 3:12 pm
Liza Grossman
Jim was one of the first people I met when I moved to Cleveland from Detroit in 1985. . He was getting his Masters at CSU at the time and was so warm and welcoming. He made me feel at home right away. He conducted the orchestra there for a while and was so encouraging with his words – he was supportive, gentle and had an amazing ear. He was able to turn a phrase into something beautiful with just a few suggestions. His consistent smile, gentle aura, positive energy and true good nature and spirit were something to behold. He was one of the kindest people I have ever met. This is a huge loss for everyone in our community as a whole. Dear man and a dear soul.
January 27, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Alan Douglass
When I was the only cellist at CSU back in the early ’80s, Jim was often hired as a ‘ringer” to augment our anemic string section. I remember him to be very kind and helpful and I was always glad to see him. His gentle unassuming nature belied his great talent and ability. He will be sorely missed.
January 27, 2010 at 8:19 pm
Alicia Tremmel
When playing Chamber Music with a dear friend, you communicate not only with words but with the heart. I was priveledged to have known and played chamber music with Jim for many years. He was generous, kind and loyal. I looked forward to our rehearsals and our pre-rehearsal chats.It was great to hear him tell about his many projects. He was always enthusiastic about everything he did. I appreciated the talks he gave before our performances, making the music all the more interesting and meaningful. Jim was an elegant man. I will miss his warm smile.
January 27, 2010 at 10:02 pm
Andrew Lipian
Jim had a smile that could absolutely set one at ease. After many a concert, he would approach me the way he approached anybody: With gentility and kindness. Nobody could make me feel more comfortable than Jim Myers, and anytime I spoke with him I got the sense that I was around a dear friend. He never failed to create an atmosphere of utter authenticity, and he was a very good man on many accounts; Always at the ready to help. I recall needing a follow up CD for college auditions, because the first wasn’t what I was looking for, and I needed it at the eleventh hour. I gave Jim a phone-call and he was there the next day, recording me. I lovingly referred to him as, “St. Jim” after that, and will always see him as an extraordinary individual, who was as fine a piece of humanity as he was an accomplished cellist. I will miss him very much.
January 27, 2010 at 11:37 pm
Deborah Davis
My heart and head is overflowing with tender memories of this gentle genius. I met James through my husband Lyle his grade school mate, when we moved from Seattle to Cleveland to be closer to Lyle’s Mother. At that time James was into photography of which I still have photos of Lyle and our young son in our bedroom. On my first birthday in Cleveland James suprized me with a homeade birthday cake! A few years later James suprized me again. He was conducting the orchestra for a “Smokey Robinson” concert, after the concert we ended up back stage and in “Smokey’s” dressing room! I have memories of celerbrating Lyle’s and James Mother’s Birthdays together. A few years ago I arranged for James to come to Seattle as a suprize for Lyle’s “Big Birthday”. Just like school kids again! I will miss your joyous heart! Walk on and be free James! XO
January 27, 2010 at 11:47 pm
Mary Beth Ions
I am not one to make New Year’s resolutions. But I think this year will be different. The best way for me to honor Jim’s memory is to try to assimilate some of his wonderful qualities. I may not always succeed 100% in my efforts but knowing Jim as I did and as long as I did will help inspire me. As Ken Wadenpfuhl so eloquently stated, “Jim was meek in spirit, gentle soul, gracious to everyone – I never heard him utter an ill word about anyone.” Would we all be so fortunate to live this way. I witnessed Jim being a friend to all, a true friend. He never held grudges, bemoaned the past or alienated anyone. He tried to find good in every situation and he radiated a consistently positive presence. He remained a dedicated musician, undaunted by physical challenges. He never made excuses. He always forged forward, looking to the next chapter in his life.
This past year Jim and I performed many times as a violin/cello duo. It was a total revelation to hear him accompany me as I played song after song from many diverse musical eras. Without any music in front of him he supplied sumptuous harmonies to my melody line. I could literally play anything and without skipping a beat (literally!) Jim would provide the most lovely bass line you could ever ask for! It was astounding. We were supposed to play a duo “gig” this past Monday. I was so looking forward to it. I played the gig as a soloist, thinking of Jim and what he would have played during each tune. I could actually “hear” him. It made me very sad.
Jim will be sorely missed. But remembering all the fine qualities he possessed and how lucky we all were to have known him will ease the burden. Thank you, Jim, for having been the “real deal.”
January 28, 2010 at 10:09 am
Cora Ann Lincoln
Speaking for the people at Lake Vista’s he was a very good man and made our lives better by having him in our lives.
January 28, 2010 at 11:00 am
Monica Norman-Dumas
I work for Access To the Arts as Graham Grund’s assistant, I’ve never met James but I’ve talked to him many times, I felt as if I had known him forever!!! he was soft spoken but to me it was if he had a twinkle in his voice a quiet type of humor. James and I had just spoken on Thursday the 21st he was going to perform for us. Monday I received the news. I’ll miss James.
Monica Dumas
January 28, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Keith Holliday
I initially came to know Jim through our many musical and social associations in time spent together in Kent during the Seventies. Jim’s musical attributes were astounding and his gentle, caring soul shown through in all of our interactions throughout the many years. He would always make a point to inquire about my family and took an avid interest in hearing about projects I was involved in. His amicable, polite manner of conversation, distinguished opinions and genuine delight for helping others made an impression that I will always admire him for. Gentleman Jim was always the same no matter the circumstance and his presence on Earth radiated nothing but positive energy and good will into the world. We will all cherish memories of him.
January 28, 2010 at 2:36 pm
Anita Salsgiver
I haven’t known Jim for long but he had a great impact on my life. A kind man with a big smile and a hand out to help everyone. He was interested in everything and when he talked with you he made you feel special. The world seems a little more hostile without this kind gentle soul in it. He was one in a million. I will miss him.
January 28, 2010 at 2:40 pm
Jim Traxler
I first met Jim when he went to Romania with the Bay Presbyterian Promise Choir and Orchestra a few years ago on a mission/concert trip. I soon learned what a fine musician and delightful personality he was. He also had a wry sense of humor. He did not take his cello with him, as he was assured that one would be available to him once he arrived. It turned out to be a quite small cello, and he looked at it for a while, then said, “Where do I add water to blow it up?”
He continued to play with Promise from time to time, especially for concerts. He became famous for a beautiful, slow glissando at the end of “Old 100th.” When I became director of the TrueNorth Symphony, I asked him to help us out at several concerts. Despite living at the other end of the earth from Sheffield Village, he never said no unless he had a conflict.
Reading the other comments here has made me realize that the entire northeast Ohio music community loved and respected him just as I did. I especially liked Mary Beth Ions’ comment that “The best way for me to honor Jim’s memory is to try to assimilate some of his wonderful qualities.” I will make a similar resolution, and plan to honor Jim in our upcoming TrueNorth Symphony concert by dedicating the concert to him.
January 28, 2010 at 4:41 pm
Pat Noonan Knox
Words cannot express the depth of this loss, of losing Jim Meyers to death so suddenly and at so early an age. My heart and prayers go out to his cousins and extended family, as well as the entire northeast Ohio music community. Days later, it is still such shocking news.
His cello playing was elegant, despite being allergic to practicing. Rehearsals and gigs with Jim were always a delight for the ear, with little surprises of musical nuance. He really knew how to turn a phrase. And as so he was in life. A friend ready for a cup of coffee and conversation any time, a respectful gentleman, a refined wordsmith, a beautiful speaking voice, an enthusiasm for being on the go and not letting anything slow him down for too long. He was a survivor. He made the best of things, and his example was always an encouragement. In matters of faith, he was quite private, but spoke of having been raised Baptist and having attended Christian Science worship services in the past. We talked together about God’s acts of grace and mercy in our lives. The one thing Jim worried about was how he was going to get by in retirement, or if he would ever be able to retire, something that concerns all working musicians. It is sad that Jim didn’t make it to retirement. Perhaps the Lord was merciful in taking Jim quickly, as painlessly as possible. I pray in the hope that Jesus welcomed Jim home to eternity, where music perfectly glorifies God. James Fowler Meyers, beloved friend, may you rest in peace.
January 28, 2010 at 11:25 pm
Anne Tubbs Prestamo
Jim was a fellow cellist and one of the first people I met when I arrived at Kent State in 1973. He was one of the most gregarious people I’ve ever known. He was incredibly kind and helpful in introducing me into the freelance classical music circuit in NE Ohio. So in a way I guess you could say he was one of the people that made it possible for me to support myself through my undergraduate days.
One of my strongest memories is being scheduled to play the Vivaldi Double Cello Concerto with the KSU Chamber orchestra. The other cellist was hospitalized a couple of days before the concert. The obvious solution – call Jim. He happily accepted, and after a few hours of frenzied rehearsal we were ready to go. When we walked on stage that night there were some audible snickers from the audience. Jim and I were both baffled, and asked friends after the concert if something had been going on that we missed. They told us that we really presented an amusing picture on the stage. They said Jim’s stature next to my 5’4″/110 pound frame gave the audience the impression that I didn’t stand a chance!
He will leave an empty chair on many stages where he was a fixture for so many years.
January 29, 2010 at 1:03 pm
Betty Meyers
While I have known Jim for only a few years, he certainly became a dear friend and colleague. There was nothing he wouldn’t go out of his way to do for you. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to play chamber music with him. He will be sorely missed.
Betty Meyers
January 30, 2010 at 4:16 am
Darlene Workman
Quiet, kind, and a gentle soul, this is a common thread we all seem to have had of Jim. He was never boastful, never really spoke of his notariety at all but as I grew to know this sweet man you knew he was the most accepting, educated, funny person we have ever met. Unfortunately I did not know Jim as the musician he was but I knew him as the intelect who had a great love of literature of any form. Be it a classic or a simple childrens story book, he was able to pull from it the meaning with great observation. From the books he was able to journey with immagination to far and wonderful places. Jim you will be sorely missed by all who knew you for even a short time in their lives. So let us pray that the Lord will hold him in his loving arms and enjoy the his presence for eternity. Till we meet again Bon Voyage.
January 30, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Charles Griffith
Jim was a good friend, but our paths didn`t cross much recently. I have three great memories of him, however. He played a beautiful cello solo at a MLK concert at Cory Methodist Church years ago. We also colaborated in an extravagant wedding in Lorain. I hired an orchestra of 15 or so, and Jim conducted. Between the ceremony and reception, the musicians had a pot-luck picnic in Lorain`s Lakeview Park. We were still dressed in tuxes and long black dresses. We were asked what our religion was by a bystander! They were not used to seeing formal dress clothes at a park picnic. On a recital I gave some years ago of all cello duets, Jim and I worked out and performed a complex contemporary duet. At least one of our rehearsals was at his home on Linwood Avenue in Cleveland. His mother was still living, and he took wonderful care of her until her death. Thanks for the memories, Jim, we`ll all miss you! Charles
January 30, 2010 at 10:13 pm
June Romeo
Knowing Jim influenced my life in so many ways. Being a beginning violinist and playing in the back row of the second violins in a community orchestra for which he was the conductor was an incredible experience. I played music I never thought I would be able to, and Jim always had an encouraging word for me. He’d always find something good in my playing, something that would encourage me to continue. He opened musical doors in my life that I never even knew existed. A lovely player of music, and a lovely human being, he will be missed.
Jim, I know you continue to play beautifully, wherever you are. Knowing you added a richness to my life. Thank you.
January 31, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Gayle Getts
It is just over a week now since Jocelyn Chang called me with the shocking news of Jim’s passing and it still seems unbelievable. I first met Jim over 25 years ago while playing a gig through Cynthia Caporella. However, we grew closer in our friendship when he moved to Mentor on the Lake – a few minutes from my own house. This was after his serious illness which not many knew a great deal about. The best part of playing a gig with Jim was the car time we had together. I always drove and he always told stories. He was, by far, the richest poor man I have ever known. His struggles were many and only a handful knew of his troubles. But mostly his stories were about the Front Row, musicians we both knew, romantic encounters, professors from his past, his “radio show” and his dream of owning a refurbished apartment with a recording studio.
Jim’s passion for music and playing were unmatched. It is a shame our society made it so difficult for someone of Jim’s ability and knowledge to earn a living. Yet somehow he did and he NEVER complained. I need to learn from his example and keep his wonderful optimism with me.
He was like a big brother to me and shared in my daughter’s lives as well. He played his eloquent cello with one of my flute students for my daughter’s graduation party last summer. The last time he was over my house he had my other daughters walking in high heels so he could record their foot steps for his radio show. They were not sure what to make of it, but it was who he was.
Jim lived life to the fullest and enjoyed each moment. I will miss his playing, his knowledge, his passion for music and bright spirit. He was truly a gentleman in every sense.
January 31, 2010 at 3:31 pm
Beverly Choo
Jim was a dear cousin with whom I shared the love of music, and the strong desire to share it with others. I, also was a string player, and a member of several Orchestras he conducted including the Chagrin Valley Orchestra, Mount Pleasant, and several small groups put together for special occasions. Jim and I had the most fun rehearsing and playing in a Jazz Orchestra where we could relax, feel the rhythm, and somewhat improvise. I had the additional honor of showing my suport for my cousin by attending concerts at Trinity, and Symphony West.
In the most recent years I was forced to put away my Fiddle due to a medical condition, and our meetings became less frequent. Jim’s untimely death is such a deprivation to the music world and his family, but we were both blessed to have known “The Gentle Giant!” He will stay in my heart forever.
January 31, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Laura Hatt
My daughter, Janeen, is the flute student that Gayle Getts refers to in her note above – the one that played with Jim at her daughter’s graduation party this past June. Jim was obviously a very accomplished cellist, and Janeen, although a talented flutist, was young and inexperienced and certainly not in the same musical “ballpark” as someone like Jim. Yet Jim was willing to play duets with her. And while they played together, he was patient and sweet and very kind. I wish we could have had the opportunity to know him better.
January 31, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Linda Parr
I have many wonderful memories of Jim. As a somewhat shy and naïve undergrad piano major at KSU, I was lucky to have several mentors: Jack Knapp, who initially ‘fed’ me a steady diet of piano scores and recordings; and then, as a junior in the early 70s, I was asked to sightread piano trios with cellist Jim Meyers and violinist Leo Siciliano.. We played Mendelssohn’s Trio in D minor and in the summer Jim (who was having fun getting experience with recording equipment) wanted Leo and me to record Beethoven’s ‘Spring’ Sonata in Ludwig Recital Hall. Turned out pretty good, and Jim even recently commented on that recording. That was the start of a lifetime love of chamber music for me.
There were several of us who went everywhere together to concerts and rehearsals – Canton, Akron and Youngstown symphonies, CIM, Oberlin, Akron Art Museum, Friends of Music, etc. Jim would set up the approaching musical experience for us by singing every important solo or section entrance of an oboe, the ‘celli’, whatever theme was going through his head. This group sometimes included Curt Cacioppo, Paul Dougherty, Bruce Davies, Fran Schoettler, Mary Schulman, Joe Licitri, Tammy Sinkevitch, and many others, whoever was available. What great times we (strings players, pianists, composers, conductors, singers…) had – all gravitating around James Fowler Meyers. Dr. Moshe Amitay was ever hopeful that Jim would practice cello, but Jim had his own agenda. Most of us just were happy to be near and with him. He loved to be with people, boost their spirits, share his love of music and any projects he was presently passionate about.
After 25 or more years of not seeing Jim, we reconnected when he arranged a reunion when Leo and I were both in town. For the past several years we were getting together, usually initiated by Jim; and one summer we read through some trios including Dvorak F minor. I have played with many chamber players, but I was astounded at the ‘reading’ of both Jim and Leo of that angular and mature trio. Such artistic and masterful playing, and with such ease. If only there was another lifetime of opportunities.
I am having a hard time with the passing of this great guy. He made us all better musicians and better people.
Linda Smith Parr
January 31, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Valerie Franklin
My cousin Jim and I have so many fond memories, it’s hard for me to just choose one. The most memorable would probably be Jim visiting us as he often did one 4th of July cookout [2009] with all the children present. He would lite up like a Christmas Tree. He would talk and play with them with such joy and happiness, that it is truly undescribable in words. Then of course, there was Mom’s good cooking and we all know how much Jim enjoyed that. Just watching him enjoy family as much as we did with him was my fondest and greatest memory of all. We all have beautiful and cherishable memories of my cousin and your dear friend James F. Myers. We all love you very very much and your presence will be greatly missed.
January 31, 2010 at 10:07 pm
Joe Porok
James and I went to John Adams High School together and in the summers I had a job operating the carrousel at Euclid Beach Park. My boss there let us record the songs on the old carrousel organ on a winter day when the park was closed. We used an old reel-to-reel Norelco tape recorder. It was bitter cold and we had amateur equipment but the memory of Jim’s passion for music still warms my heart. I will miss him.
February 3, 2010 at 11:46 am
Pat Noonan Knox
An important accomplishment of Jim’s has not been stated for the record as of yet. Although a generation younger than the late, beloved Donald White, the first black member of the Cleveland Orchestra and also a marvelous cellist, Jim once reflected on the fact that often he was the only black musician on stage, out of an entire orchestra, even now in the 21st century.
People of color still are underrepresented in classical music. It is not easy to even attempt to go into a career in the arts from a family of modest means (Jim and I both came from different streets in the Hough neighborhood of Cleveland), as the expense of the training is prohibitive and the monetary returns rarely compensate for the costs of a music education. Those who go into music for the prospect of money are usually quickly disillusioned and turn bitter for the poor financial return on their investment. But for those of us who are grateful for the God-given gift, music satisfies our soul. Jim was such an one.
Jim worked harder and at many more things than any person of his musical calibre ought to in order to cobble together a living. Among those highlights of his curriculum vitae not mentioned in the Plain Dealer’s obituary were the pre-concert talks Jim gave for the Cleveland Orchestra in the recital hall below Severance Hall’s concert hall, as also his peer Peter Laki; playing cello for Maestro Turner’s famous cotillions; cellist of the Jocelyn Chang quartet with harp, flute and violin; principal cellist for Cleveland Chamber Symphony for many years; initiating and helping to fund the Music In Public Places ‘green sheet gig’ foundation in Cleveland; making a 1968 Roth cello sound almost as good as a Stradivarius (I can say that because my violin is a 1968 Roth as well). Those are only the few I know of. The collective consciousness of all the Cleveland gig musicians could probably list hundreds, maybe over a thousand.
Jim was a resourceful man. Diverse and always looking for new ways to market his many talents, he studied at the respected Aspen Music Festival to become a fine recording engineer. In the last few years, he learned the art of commercial vocal techniques to do voice-over work and enhance his speaking engagements. His voice was made for radio, but being a DJ was not something he felt totally ready to attempt, although he was obviously too self-effacing. Jim excelled at making the most of his potential, something few of us ever accomplish. And he did it in his own quiet amiable way.
When he went into a diabetic coma and lost most of his right leg due to gangrene, he recovered by sheer force of willpower. Wheelchair-bound, he rehabilitated until he could use a cane, then walk on his prosthesis and carry a heavy cello case, and learned to drive with his left leg. We both commiserated over our not being able to play to the level we had before, due to the effects of his coma that initially gave him numbness and tremors in his bow hand, and the rupturing of three cervical disks in my neck, which took five years to heal. But we both encouraged each other to recover our former musical facility, and then to do our best to improve upon and go beyond it. Thank God for Jim. He was a true blue friend to the very end. We shared a very special bond because of our misfortunes, and fought our way back together to salvage our musical gifts. I didn’t deserve his time or his attention, my musical gifts being much more modest than his; but he treated me like an equal, nevertheless. In a sense, despite handicaps, we both musically were able to go artistically beyond our limitations and became finer, more introspective and emotive musicians for the setback.
Tragedy and hardship gave him (and me) a musical maturity in being able to evoke the right character or emotion of a phrase or a movement of a work. When there were no words for the pain, it was cathartic to be able to express it musically, that ‘je ne sais quoi’ which revealed the poignant feelings wordlessly, so that our thoughts themselves remained private. What a joy it is to have music in one’s life! And so, too, what a joy it was to hear the excitement in his voice when he called a couple of years ago and said, “I believe I’m playing the best I’ve ever played in my life.”
Jim invited my husband Doug and myself to come to one of the performances, and even offered to pay for our tickets. We were more than happy to patronize the box office for such a fine offering of entertainment. Jim was fully practiced-up for a clever Harry Chapin revue at the historic Beck Center of the Arts in Lakewood, where he was the sole musician onstage throughout the performance. The demands of solo cello in the spotlight, the challenging score, the epic cello solo in Chapin’s hit song Taxi, and the entire two-hours worth of music collaborating with onstage singers and actors in that show was a singular fete which may not be Bach, but it was just as strenuous and exacting. Jim was at the top of his game, and he shined. He sounded amazing, better than ever. Perfect pitch, fabulous arpeggios and cadenzas, flawless articulation, and out of his dark night of the soul, his always beautifully elegant musicianship was embued with heart-rending phrasing and exhuberantly playful passages as the music called for. But alas, ours is the art that evaporates. Live music performance is the most delicate version of the art. Most are not recorded, but vanish in the mists. Ah, if only you all could have heard him then. I have never seen Jim happier.
February 7, 2010 at 11:25 am
Mary Ferguson
As a voice major at KSU I was fortunate to have Jim as a friend who broadened my horizons in music.
I remember spending time at a friend’s home (Linda Parr) and listening to beautiful instrumental music. We also spent time going to concerts and dining at restuarants talking about (of course) music and various other topics.
I am happy for all of you who have spent time with Jim as a friend and/or fellow musician.
February 8, 2010 at 10:03 pm
Ginny Vigrass
What a blessing we had with the gift of Jim Meyers’ cello music, his
gift of recordings, and knowing him as a person ! I enjoyed visiting
with Jim and hearing him play when I sang in December in ” Handel’s
Messiah ” at Trinity Cathedral in downtown Cleveland. Jim was playing
in the Trinity Orchestra. Jim was always ready to lend a helping hand
to aspiring young musicians, too. A few months ago, after I enjoyed
hearing one of organist David Gooding’s Tuesday noon concerts at
Messiah Lutheran Church in Fairview Park, I saw Jim busily recording
a CD for an aspiring Lutheran High tenor soloist who was making a
recording for his admission to several conservatories. Jim was helping
him out with the recording . We shall all miss Jim’s beautiful cello
music and his joyful personality !
February 9, 2010 at 12:59 pm
Amie Albert
Jim taught music at the Cleveland Suplementary Educational center in the early 1970′s and that is where I first met him.
Though our contact was only ocassional, I developed a strong impression of his strength of character, kindness and gentleness.
I was surprised in later years, when I would run into him, he would remember me and give me a great big smileygreeting.
I of course remembered him – and always will.
February 14, 2010 at 9:53 pm
Jean Zarzour
I am sincerely heart-broken. I just heard 2 days ago, that James passed away on January 23.
James was one of my prized voice over students in October, 2008. Not only did he do an impressive job behind the mic, he brought his passion for creating retro radio dramas.
One day he came to class with his portable recording equipment and recorded all of the sound affects and crowd noises his classmates and I as the Foley Artists. We had a ball and were equally entertained by his final product. He was even kind enough to give me the script to his radio drama to use in my classes, which I will do in his honor, from now on.
We’ve lost a true artist, arts enthusiast and gentleman. I’ll treasure his memory.
If anyone is interested, you can hear a sample of James voice over work that he did at a recording studio as part of his training in class. Ever the consummate musician, he chose to voice a commercial for The Cleveland Orchestra.
Visit http://findyourvoice-voiceactinginstitute.blogspot.com for a link to the recording.
You’ll hear, like everything else he created, he had a gift with his vocal expression, too.
February 18, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Jessica Shaver
In the late ‘60s I took Saturday horn lessons at the Supplementary Education Center, located in an old industrial building in downtown Cleveland. Jim taught cello lessons at the Center, and one of my earliest memories of the place was seeing a crowd of young students gathered around the tall, smiling “Mr. Meyers” while he chatted and joked with them. I remember Jim’s gentle, baritone voice easily heard over the giggles and laughter; and I remember how much the kids adored him (so much so that they absolutely would not allow him a moment of peace). It wasn’t until a few years later, at Kent State, that Jim and I formally met and our friendship took root. I remember best our times hanging out, listening to a lot of great LP’s and having wonderful conversations about music and such. The talk was always lively and interesting, and I’ve since realized what a big part Jim had in the development of my own musical aesthetic. Along this line he was quick to recommend recordings he felt I “must have” as a serious musician – Elaine Shaffer’s Bach Flute Sonatas, Tombeau with Brusilov’s Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra, Mozart Sinfonia concertante E-flat with Barenboim and the English Chamber Orchestra—such impeccable taste! Jim was also ready and willing to share his abounding joy for a particular piece of music or a new project. His projects were wide in scope and always involved intense study and an interminable thirst for new knowledge and skills. His Porgy and Bess project is one of the first big projects I remember right down to the special pens and staff paper Jim purchased to properly score his arrangement for vocals, piano, flute and cello. He was like that—so thoroughly immersed in the moment, and I was happy to go along for the ride. I feel so blessed to have known Jim Meyers. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Jessica Connavino Shaver
New Haven, CT
February 26, 2010 at 11:34 am
H. Leslie Adams
JIm was a very good friend and supporter. He recorded several of my performances, supervised my audio music archives and provided excellent advice on matters technical. We both shared a hobby of collecting classic films and viewed them together on occasion. Jim seemed to have a broad interest in a variety of the arts, from record collecting to radio script creation. I will miss his cheery disposition, humor and perpetual positive outlook. It was a genuine pleasure and honor to have known him.
March 4, 2010 at 9:42 am
Michael McArthur
I only had a brief encounter with Jim as we were tearing down the set for Radio Boy. He was waiting to get his microphones and we had a nice conversation. I thought, what a genial man. I was left with the sense that if we had more Jim Meyer’s in this world, it would be a far less troublesome place.
Jim Meyers Memorial Poem
Where do we go?
Like notes from a bow
Or a song sung
or melody played
The notes don’t stay
They fall away
The form forlorn
The measure released
In thirds and fifths
And scales of sound
No longer found
Idle and unmoved
In a corner now thrust
A cello and a bow
And a symphony of dust
No force of Zeus
Nor water parted
Can move that bow
With the soul now departed
Respectfully,
Michael McArthur