Monday, November 21, 2011

The Passing of Rene Morel

The violin world was saddened by the passing November 16 of a true giant, Rene A. Morel. 
Rene was a great artist and innovator, and also a kind gentleman, and I suspect we his colleagues do not yet know how much we will miss him. Soon after arriving in New York in the steamy summer of 1977 as a young violin-maker journeyman at Nigo Nigogosian's Stradivarius Studios, I was dispatched across 57th Street on an errand to Rene. My feelings of apprehension to meet the great man were dispelled instantly as he spoke to me warmly and naturally. Over the years this initial impression only deepened; his musical cheery way of greeting reminded me that along with serious work, life could be a lot of fun.

Great teacher that he was, Rene would always respond to questions about violin making in a frank and comprehensive manner, and always displaying an earthy love of the work itself. His influence was always present if he was not- his observations and opinions would eventually surface in any discussions with my contemporaries. Whether varnish, tone, soundposts, or other arcane points of luthierie, Rene had a made a contribution that was impossible to ignore.

His masterly attainments as a luthier were equaled by his thoughtful concern for musicians, treating any of his clients as if they were playing at Carnegie Hall that evening. Only he knows how many kindnesses he bestowed on needy students. Master of luthierie and bon vivant, whatever history may remember of this epoch of the violin, Rene A. Morel will be remembered as one of the giants.

May his family, whose loss is so much greater than that of his colleagues, find peace in this difficult time. Rest in peace, Rene.