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James Prigmore Obituary
Mr. James Prigmore passed away peacefully of natural causes last week in Magna, Ut. The son of Martin and Olive Prigmore, James was born and raised in Bingham Canyon, Ut. A consummate and accomplished musician, Mr. Prigmore's musical ambitions began at age 12 when his parents bought him a piano at which he spent 6-10 hours daily practicing. His professional career began at 15 as rehearsal pianist for Utah Ballet when he entered and won a composers contest at the Utah Academy of Arts. He graduated from Bingham High School with a scholarship to the U of U where he began to study music full time. He became Composer-in-Residence at Pasadena Playhouse then was drafted by the U.S. Army and was stationed in Virginia where his duties were pianist, composer and arranger for the Continental Army Band. He returned to California to compose his first film score where many other opportunities were presented to him. But Mr. Prigmore chose to return to Utah to become Musical Director at Utah Repertory Dance and then resident Musical Director at Pioneer Memorial Theatre (PTC) and professor of Liberal Education at the University of Utah where he also worked as composer and conductor and from which he retired some 35 years later. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, one of Mr. Prigmore's proudest accomplishments was being commissioned by the First Presidency to create the cantata "Palmyra" for the 150th Anniversary of Joseph Smith's First Vision. He collaborated artistically with many professionals and students in the arts and entertainment industries throughout the years in Utah, New York and Hollywood. He was well known for his genius wit and caring personality. He loved all people and animals, especially cats! His charming attire of bib overalls with Hawaiian print shirts and full beard made him an unmistakable icon! The Heavens are rejoicing at his return! A "Celebration of Life" service for James will be held Tuesday, August 20th 2:00 P.M. at LDS Magna church 8181 West Breeze Dr. Magna, Ut.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Prigmore
Sandi Clayton Burgess
March 7, 2021
I have such fond memories of James Prigmore. I worked with him in the opera department at the University of Utah. He definitely brought out the passion for music in me. I performed the lead role in his rock opera and still to this day remember those original songs, as well as a soloist with the Mormon Youth Chorus and Symphony and singing his beautiful music. I treasure those moments. Thank you James.
Richard Adams
November 9, 2019
I am just learning of James's passing now as we hadn't been in touch for a few years. I am deeply saddened as James had been a close friend and a huge influence on me during my college years at the University of Utah and for many years afterward. He even came and visited me while I lived in England and I treasure those memories and visits -- now, more than ever. James was a true original -- to say he was a brilliant musician and thinker really doesn't do him justice. He was a profoundly spiritual man and I always got the sense that he had access to ideas and realities that I couldn't quite fathom. Those of us in Utah who were close to him were incredibly lucky to benefit from his brilliance and humanity. I am deeply saddened by this loss but so grateful for all he gave me through his wisdom and music.
Jeremy Cloward
August 25, 2019
That guy had more positive influence in our house during my teenage years, than he had ANY CLUE. He was just adored, always talked about, and appreciated. He probably wouldn't have thought more than, "That's nice", and gone on being the kind mentor. Will forever be remembered and loved.
Loa B Lund Haslam
August 19, 2019
His legacy of music and love has truly enriched the world. He will long be remembered.
Patti Olsen-Davies
August 19, 2019
James had a huge impact on my life & left an indelible handprint on my heart. I will forever be grateful for his loving guidance during my early musical theatre years. He gave me such wonderful opportunities, and was an incredible mentor all along the way. Such talent & so willing to share it with everyone. I loved him & will forever be grateful that our paths crossed in life.
Jo Vasic
August 5, 2019
It was such an honor to be his nurse as well as both his parents. Mr. Prigmore will be remembered always.
Chase Kimball
June 25, 2019
I have been a friend of James since 1973. My friend Richard Moore was taking a class from him and raved about it, so I sat in and was equally entranced. I stayed after that class to ask him some questions, and we started becoming friends, a friendship that lasted 46 years. He was one of the most gifted musicians I have ever known. I have a CD of some of his works, that I love to listen to. A fine pianist, excellent composer, skillful director, there was nothing in music that seemed beyond him. Over the years he has been a kind and generous friend. In my office I have a signed Dali artist's proof of his painting "Church and Empire" which Dali created for an edition of Dante. I have loved it for decades, and when James started getting really ill he gave it to me because he knew how I felt about it. He was always making generous and loving gestures like that. I will miss him terribly.
Jerrica Stevens
June 24, 2019
I took his class back in the late 70's. He was always challenging my mind and had an eye for raw talent in people. He was one of my favorite teachers of all time. I'm sorry to hear he is gone.
June 24, 2019
I was a member of the Mormon Youth Chorus (Jay Welch) when James directed us in his "Palmyra - The Spring of 1820". What a delightful and talented man. So sorry about his passing.
John Smith
June 23, 2019
What a wondeful man.
Chris & Debbie Wilde
June 23, 2019
We love James so much! He was a Delight to visit with and always had engaging conversation. We especially liked visiting with him when we would sit in the back yard and he would tell us stories about each one of his cats. He was always curious about what was happening in our lives and with our kids. He seemed to remember it all and we always picked right back up where we left off. We loved listening to his music in church. It was Beautiful! Our daughter and Debbie got to work closely with him on a Christmas song. He changed the music up to enhance it and to have it work better with our voices so that it sounded great. He was so patient, kind, and full of goodness! He is truly missed and we were blessed to know him and have him in our lives. What a gift that was! Heaven has gained a true angel. -Chris & Debbie Wilde
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