Robert N. Cavarra

CAVARRA, ROBERT N.,
Organist and Musicologist, Dies at 73
Robert N. Cavarra, professor of music and noted concert organist, who was a leading participant in the revival of the classical organ tradition in North America and brought international acclaim to Colorado State University, died Friday, February 8 in Denver, Colorado.
Under Prof. Cavarra's leadership, three world-class examples of the modern classical organ movement were built in Colorado: the Casavant Fr res organ at CSU (1969); the Lawrence Phelps Opus 1 organ at St. Luke's Episcopal Church (1973); and the Danish Marcussen and Son organ at the First United Methodist Church (1987). His sense of musicality was shaped through his studies at the Gregorian College in Rome, where he served as organist for the North American College.
Cavarra brought together acclaimed artists from throughout the world for master classes and recitals on these instruments, including E. Power Biggs, Marie-Claire Alain, Gillian Weir, and Anton Heiler and acted as a catalyst to expand appreciation for the arts along the Front Range. He taught from 1963 until 2000 on the faculty of CSU's Department of Music, Theater and Dance. At his death, he was Professor Emeritus of Music.
Cavarra was born on February 23, 1934 in Denver to Alfonso Cavarra and Mary Bianco. His life-long pursuit of music began in his childhood, and by age 12 he was performing publicly. As a recitalist, Cavarra toured widely, playing concerts throughout Europe and North America. He and his wife Barbara founded an international non-profit foundation, "Pro Organo Pleno XXI." As a recording artist, he released CDs through the Musical Heritage Society, and he was a major figure in the "Christmas at CSU" recordings. He was a published composer, noted harpsichordist, prodigious cook and host.
Cavarra is survived by his wife, Barbara; and his children and their spouses, Karla (and Joseph Britton); Christopher (and Janice Crane); Stephan (and Jennifer Wilson); and Matthew (and Amie Walker); and five grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Friday, February 15 at 11:00 AM at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2000 Stover Street, Fort Collins. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Organ Program Support Fund c/o The CSU Foundation.