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Robert Emile Obituary
Musical Tribute & Remembrance, Sunday, Sept. 28 at 3:00, St. Paul Methodist Church, 1144 M. St., Lincoln. In lieu of flowers, Memorials to U. of Ne. or The LSO in Bud's name. BUTHERUS, MASER & LOVE
FUNERAL HOME
4040 A St., Lincoln 402-488-0934
This obituary was originally published in the Omaha World-Herald.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Christine Newland
August 22, 2020
I have many happy memories of Robert Emille. He conducted the orchestra at the Rocky Ridge Music Centre. I was in my late teens. I was blessed to have played the Elgar Concerto under his baton. He was a very sweet person and a joy to work with. He always had a lovely smile on his face and a such a kind heart.
I came across a picture of him in my old photo album and looked him up online and found this. I am now fast-approaching 70 and still playing cello, just not as much.
Thank you Bud, for an enriching experience in such a beautiful environment as Rocky Ridge. I am forever grateful to still have beautiful memories to cherish.
I hope you are still making your beautiful music in heaven. Thank you for being such a wonderful and inspiring soul!
With love and respect,
Christine Newland
RON BURDICK
August 27, 2017
RON BURDICK HORN PLAYER, I ATTENDED GROSSMONT 1963 TO 1965 AND IN 1964 I TOOK THEORY, ORC., BAND,AND SMALL ENSEMBLE. WHAT A SUPERB ,INSTRUCTOR1 I LEARNED ALOT ABOUT MUSICIANSHIP, & CONTROLLING NERVOUSNESS, HE ENCOURAGED ME TO TRY OUT FOR THE SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY BY SAYING I NEEDED THE EXPERIENCE. I MADE 2ND HORN AND THE NEXT 5 YEARS I PERFORMED MANY GREAT CONCERTS I REMEMBER TO THIS DAY THE WONDERFUL VIOLIN SOLO IN EIN HELDENLIEBEN THAT HE PERFORMED. I BEEN LUCKY IN MY LIFE TO HAVE PLAYED THE BRAHMS TRIO FOR VL/ HN/PIANO 3 TIMES (DR, EMILE, PROFESSOR RAFAEL DURIAN 2 MONTHS BEFORE HE WAS APPOINTED CONCERT MASTER OF THE NY PHIL., AND ON A DOCTORAL RECITAL. DR, EMILE VERSION WAS THRILLING AND OVERWHELMING. I COULDN'T CONTINUE TO PLAY. I WANTED TO THANK HIM FOR PAVING THE WAY FOR MY FUTURE IN MUSIC AND WAS SADDEN TO HEAR THAT HE PASSED AWAY,
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Kevin Christie
February 3, 2016
For me, Civic Youth Orchestra was a challenging and enlightening experience mostly due to the enormous gifts and immeasurable talent of Dr. Robert Emile who was determined to give all of us in his command an educational experience largely unavailable to most. Today it is unheard of for children and young adults to be offered opportunity of that quality and magnitude. I sat 2nd chair clarinet and I remember wondering, during rehearsal of the Sibelius 5th Symphony, "why don't we ever play Beethoven's 5th or something more common"? It was because Dr. Emile was unfolding many rare and unknown essences and his mind was just simply much more advanced than what those mainstream seasonal classics could provide. He came alive in those rehearsals and he was a monster, big, strong and direct. He taught us perhaps as no one else could have. I treasure my Saturday mornings in the rehearsal room at Grossmont College. I am deeply moved and sorrowful to hear that I have lost such a great gift as he was to all of us. He could whistle and hum the Star Spangled Banner simultaneously in harmony. I really felt as though Civic Youth couldn't have been a more inspiring experience than it was and the reason for the perfection therein was Dr. Emile
Patrick Stafford
March 6, 2015
I was deeply saddened to find this notice on the internet. Few people can really be said to exert a profound, life-remembered influence on us; Dr. Emile was one of those exclusive people. I, as many, were enveloped in his towering shadow while at Grossmont College in the late 60's - early 70's when I was enrolled in the music department. He possessed perfect pitch and equally perfect understanding and appraisal of his students limitations, abilities, and talents. For me, he was a true figure of dedication, warmth, and possessed ideals one should strive to emulate. He touched the hearts and careers of myself and all who knew him with constant sound advice and true caring. A beautiful man, musician, instructor, and friend.
Linda Mann-Urmacher
December 17, 2012
Dr. Emile was the Conductor of the San Diego Civic Youth Orchestra in 1966 and 1967. I treasure my time as a member of the orchestra playing second violin and I learned much from Dr. Emile. He was a gifted musician, a wonderful educator and a dynamic leader of young musicians. He is missed and remembered by his students.
Michial Nolan LCSW
December 16, 2012
I studied harmony under Dr. Emile at Grossmont College in the 1960s. He was a man of great intellect and articulation, witty. He was demanding and as thoroughly professional as any I ever met. I learned a lot of music, but more about leadership and personal integrity. One of the most memorable and influential people of my life.
Elyssa Post
November 8, 2012
Bud is my grandpa and he was the best grandpa anyone could have. he was very funny. He gave me my first violin. Now violin is my life. Even though he has never heard me play, I know that he is listening to me play every time I practice.
Steven Emile
October 23, 2008
I am Bud's grandson, living in Utah. I had just chanced Googling his name, and had a flurry of results. It was comforting to see that he really was a larger-than-life figure, in the fray of things and doing things his way. I always felt that way growing up, and was intimidated by him. I wish I hadn't been so... Perhaps I would have had the honor of getting to know him better than I did. I'm glad that he was able to touch so many people's lives, and I'm glad that his memory will not fade so quickly from the families and friends that he shared his with. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I will try to do his name honor as I grow and change. I love you grandpa, I'll always keep you with me inside. Thank you all again.
Nancy Osborn Phillips
September 26, 2008
Bud was a man that will live forever in the lives he has touched. I smile in the memories.
Lisa Watkins
September 23, 2008
In my mind, Bud Emilie was both a musical giant and a human being. I have many wonderful memories of rehearsals and performances under his baton when I first knew him and in later years as a fellow violinist and music teacher. I am very grateful for these memories.
Laurie Scott
September 22, 2008
I studied with Dr. Emile at UNL in the early 80's. I will always be grateful to Bud- for believing in my potential. He allowed me to understand what playing with artistry meant.He was a wonderful teacher, and consummate musician.He was intense about music and about life.
He will live on through my own teaching- He truly inspired me to be a dedicated teacher. I am thankful for my years of study and performance under his baton.
Jason Stevens
September 22, 2008
I had the pleasure of singing for Dr. Emile in UNL’s Varsity Men Glee. It was under his direction that I realized that for me music was more than a hobby it was to be my occupation. Dr. Emile retired the year before I graduated and I still remember his final concert. It was the most musically moving concert I experienced while at UNL. I share the memory of that concert with my students every year. I hope I can pass on to my students just a portion of the inspiration he gave to me.
And for as long as I direct a men’s chorus we will sing “Ay lucka lucka” in his honor.
Connie Wright, Keeper of the Names
September 21, 2008
On behalf of the Lincoln Memorial Day Observance Association (LMDOA) we would like to express our sincere sympathy on the loss of your loved one. A man of great courage who served in our nation’s military , so that we may have the freedoms we enjoy in America today. Each year, a Candlelight Vigil is held on Memorial Day night at the Antelope Park Veterans Memorial Garden, 30th and “A” Street in Lincoln. At this time, all names of veterans of our Armed Forces, in Lancaster County, who passed away since the last Memorial Day Candlelight Service, are read in a solemn ceremony. Robert's name will be read at this time. We invite you to come out for this service and bring your family and friends. (Bring lawn chairs)
Ed Hoffman, President
Ann Hackman
September 20, 2008
Dr. Emile changed my life through his expert music instruction on both the violin and viola. He supported me through academic troubled waters, and I will be forever grateful to have known him, and to have been cared for by him. My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends.
Bob Jensen
September 19, 2008
Buddy, and his father Anders, Emile was a friend of our family for many years. My father was Dr. Leif Jensen, Chief of Surgery at Staten Island Hospital; Anders Emile taught my sisters(Mary Jane and Peggy) piano and voice on Staten Island. My younger sister Dotty said Buddy came to a class reunion recently and that was the last time she spoke to him. She also had spoken to Thelma as Dotty's son and grandchildren live in Minnesota.
Thelma is remembered also. I moved from New York to San Diego several years ago and it makes me sad that I did not know he was in this area. His father came to many dinners at our house when we were young. If I remember correctly he was associated with Hunter College in New York City. Please accept our sincere sympathy and know that Buddy's warm personality and great charm and talent will be remembered by our family. My wife and I would like to be informed of the memorial event planned at a later date.
Tom and Brenda Lester
September 19, 2008
It was an honor to sing under Bud's direction in a madrigal group in the 60's at La Jolla Presbyterian church. He was an extremely gifted musician and had a wonderful sense of humor. We are blessed to have been touched by his talents.
Tom Scanlan
September 18, 2008
I met Bud in 1964, the year we both began teaching at Grossmont College. My wife, Rosemarie, and I attended as many of Bud's college productions as we could and we held season tickets to the SD Symphony when Bud was concertmeister. We admired his talent and his energy which made our college music department outstanding. We considered Bud a good friend though we mostly socialized at faculty parties or sometimes following a college production. We both love classical music and Bud Emile made a very lasting impression on both of us. We were sorry to see him leave Grossmont College when he did but delighted that he did so well in Nebraska. He was a good man, an outstanding musician and a dedicated educator. We'll miss him.
Anne Nagosky
September 18, 2008
I just wanted to extend my sincerest condolences to your family. I am a fellow violinist, a member of the Omaha Symphony, and while I didn't know Bud extremely well, he was always very warm and kind toward me and I always enjoyed our conversations and story-swapping. He clearly touched many people's lives and will be deeply missed.
In Sympathy,
Monica Hall
September 18, 2008
It was my great pleasure to finally meet Dr. Emile at the Civic Youth Orchestra 50th Anniversary Gala in June 2007. The stories I had heard from his musicians in CYO during the '60s and '70s proved to be so true, as we all were inspired by his remarks at the Gala dinner! The 2007 CYO Symphony musicians were privileged to perform under his direction at Copley Symphony Hall at the 50th Anniversary Gala Concert. On behalf of the Civic Youth Orchestra family, I would like to express our condolences to the family of Dr. Emile. His legacy will continue on through the young musicians whose lives he touched.
Yolie Becerril McLeland
September 18, 2008
I was a student at Cal Western University in San Diego (1959-1963) and had the privelege of singing under Bud's direction. He was greatly admired. He knew how to blend being a professor with being a friend. I remember that we once took our choir on a week tour into Arizona and into the LA area. On another occasion we went to the Valencia Hotel in La Jolla to perform for the Yale Club. I remember that we sang Boola Boola. We loved our teacher/friend.
Did you know him then?
September 17, 2008
September 17, 2008
Linda Steele
September 17, 2008
"Bud" was a talented, vibrant, intelligent, extrordinary man . He was the "captain" of his boat, his musicians and his life. Bob and I feel very priviledged to have known him, enjoyed his music, and sailed on his boat. Most of all we were honored to have been his friends.
We will really miss him
George Brundrett
September 16, 2008
My sincerest sympathy to the family and friends of Dr. Emile. He was my violin teacher between 1965 and 1967 at Grossmont College in San Diego. It's very strange that, for whatever reason, he had been on my mind for several days and in an attempt to find his address to write, I found this very sad news. I regret that I had lost contact with him many years ago. He was a wonderful violinist and wonderful teacher. His guidance has allowed me to be a much better musician than I would have been otherwise in my avocation as a professional violinist. I shall never forget his encouragment and inspiration. I'm now living in Thailand and engaged in a project to record some traditional Thai melodies in a more modern style. Should this project be successful, it will be dedicated to him. Dr. Emile may no longer be with us, but he has been with me and will continue to be with me each and every time I pick up my violin. Thank you, Dr. Emile, for helping me to enjoy a lifetime of music.
Rebecca Hinks
September 16, 2008
It was a pleasure to have Dr. Emile as one of my most important violin instuctors that I even had. He was an amazing teacher, advisor, friend, and person. He is a person I have never forgotten in my learning the violin. Its amazing that a person can leave such a mark on you. He will be missed. Thank you for all that you have taught me and done for me, and I have continued on to this day to play and compose music.
Rebecca Hinks
Elizabeth Willborn
September 15, 2008
Pat,
We are all so very sorry for your loss. Bud was a wonderful, passionate and demanding violin teacher, and was an inspiration to all my girls. We will miss him.
Joyce Petry
September 15, 2008
To Ben S. and Family, I saw the notice of the death of your step-father, and am so sorry for your loss. May God's love and comfort surround you and your family in these days of sorrow. Blessings, Pastor Joyce Petry, Antelope Park Church of the Brethren
Jim Hejduk
September 15, 2008
Bud was a wonderful colleague at the UNL School of Music. He graciously shared the University Orchestra with me and the UNL Oratorio Chorus and was generous with his advice, wise counsel, and praise. When the UNL orchestra's resources were being stretched quite thin, I was asked if I'd consider using them for only one of my two annual concerts to which I collegially agreed and delved into repertoire for "large chorus and no orchestra" with some success. However, one year Bud casually asked "What are you doing this spring?" and I replied "Carmina Burana" by Orff and would use the two-piano and percussion version. "Aw, no, you can't do that, Bud replied. "You gotta' have that color" and, presto, the orchestra was all mine. With the LSO under Bud's direction we had several memorable collaborations. Among them, the U. Singers were joined by the Nebraska Wesleyan Choir and the Wayne State Choir for a performance of the Verdi "Requiem." Our soprano soloist was the then "just getting started" Renee Fleming. We also did the Britten "Spring Symphony" with the U. Singers combined with the Oratorio Chorus plus a number of seasonal holiday concerts. One memorable "off the books" concert was an "in solidarity" benefit performance of the Beethoven 9th Symphony with the striking Omaha Symphony players under Bud's direction and a pick-up chorus from Lincoln. He loved seeing his name in lights on the Orpheum Theatre marquee. One of Bud's favorite stories from his San Diego days was of a second-rate Hungarian conductor who wished to begin the Verdi "Requiem" in pitch black. The lights were dimmed to total darkness, the audience was respectfully silent, and the conductor made his entrance. However, in the dark he kept bumping into players, their stands, and what-not. All you could hear in that tomb-like concert hall was "Oops...sorry...damn it" and so on. Kind of broke the spell, needless to say! Bud was truly one-of-a-kind on a host of fronts and I'll miss him very much.
David McCreary
September 15, 2008
I joined the choir at California Western University as a freshman in 1962. Dr. Emile was our director and he introduced us to a wide variety of choral music. (I will have to dig up my old LP of our performance.) When he announced the second semester that we would be singing Brahms's Liebeslieder Waltzes, I had no idea what a rare treat that would be. I have loved them ever since. I transferred at the end of the year, but when I was leaving, he said with a broad smile, "Keep on singing." I still do and in no small part due to his encouragement.
Carla McCord Albers
September 14, 2008
Dear Family:
My condolances to you. I was lucky enough to have Dr. Emile as a conductor while at UNL. He was an amazing musician - terrifying at times, especially if we breached musical etiquette - and boy, did we learn to pay attention! While I didn't pursue music as a profession, he is a great part of why I continue to play to this day - 22 years and counting with the Pikes Peak Philharmonic. He will be missed.
Allison French-Montgomery
September 14, 2008
Pat and family,
Dr. Emile's passing brings to mind the fantastic repetoire I played under his baton (Leos Janacek's Sinfonieta, Britten's Four Sea Interludes, Hindemith...). His choice of repetoire was outstanding.
I am honored to have studied viola with Dr. Emile and played under his baton at UNL & LSO. He was a demanding and gifted teacher. I laugh, back then I thought he was hard on me -- but then I left Nebraska and I played under Mehli Mehta at AYS and Jorge Mester at Aspen. And, I found out Bud had just done his job -- he prepared me for the 'real world'.
He will be missed. My sympathies to you all.
Rachel Kornfeld-Lambrecht
September 14, 2008
Dr. Emile is part of my history as a musician in Lincoln, Nebraska. He conducted me in the all state summer music camp orchestra back in the early 80's. He inspired me to be perfect in my playing and if I wasn't perfect, he would surely holler, "PICCOLO- HIGHER!!!!!!!"
I had the honor of playing in several ensembles under his conducting. He was absolutely infuriated by imperfection and incorrect pitch! This is what I dearly loved about him.
My greatest sympathies to his family and friends during this time of sorrow. Please be comforted by the knowledge that he inspired many, many people.
I am definitely one of the many.
God Bless you all and to Dr. Emile,
Rest in peace
Jessica Guerrero
September 14, 2008
Sorry to hear about your loss! Robert was a very nice and polite man. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers in your time of need.
A 3rd shift worker at Haven Manor
David Wiebe
September 14, 2008
Robert Bud Emile was a robust person, passionate about music, very much the consummate musician in his outlook. I was grateful to him for his support and encouragement and always enjoyed his exuberant pursuit of his interests. His memory is quite vivid.
Gwendolyn Cornell
September 14, 2008
My sympathy's to "Bud's" family. Bud was probably the most gifted & genius in Music that anyone could know. I worked with him at Grossmont College & with the Civic Youth group. Thru his high expectations, many of those students have gone on to play in Orchestras, world wide. Others have gone on to teach music & of those many are giving the joy of music to the younger generation.
I am grateful for having known Bud
Gwen Cornell
previously from San Diego area.
Leanne Dynneson
September 14, 2008
Dr. Emile was one whom I expected would live forever---I will miss him and never forget him.
Darrell Baum
September 14, 2008
Ben & Family, My deepest sympathy to you and your family in the lost of your step-dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
Bob and Nancy Wanek
September 14, 2008
Pat and family, Our deepest sympathy and love Bob and Nancy
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