JONATHAN STRASSER

Mr. Strasser was bewildered by my obsession with rock and jazz. He thought they were simplistic at best, and not worthy of a true musician. Nonetheless, he indulged me and many others at Performing Arts high school, and made us all better musicians because he was willing to let us explore our individual muse. He was a great conductor, artist, and teacher, and knew how to get the best out of his students. He is missed dearly and often. RIP, Mr. "S."

I can't believe it's been 8 years. I wonder what you'd think of today's goings-on...actually I *do* know, lol. You do let me know every so often that you're there - and I always smile! Happy Heavenly Anniversary, JS! <3

Happy birthday, JS - 78, wow! Thinking back to my PA audition! Seems like yesterday. MISS YOU.

I'm a little tardy posting here, but that doesn't mean I'm not thinking of you, J! Quite the contrary, I had actually been thinking about you quite a bit leading up to your 6th anniversary (which I cannot believe it was). Boy, I miss those times with you back when. Sending hugs to you up there!

Happy 76th, JS! Never forgotten. Plus, my brother just did an interview where he gave you major props. We miss you, but know you are never too far away.

I'm a little late on this, but I wanted to make sure this got here, never forgotten. 3/8/2022 - I can't believe it's 5 years. We are hanging on down here, but the world could use a big dose of YOU right now! You are so, so missed and thought of always.

Well, we're coming up on JS's 75th birthday...wanted to make sure this got posted. For some reason my 3/8 4th anniversary post never got put on for this year.

What a year. I talk to him all the time, and know I get signs he's musing over all this (a piece of music, seeing something, a thought popping into my head, even just a feeling). He was just getting used to video conferencing technology from a few years before. I can only imagine his reaction to the state of the arts and all...

Mr. Strasser, PA was the most enriching experience of my life because of you. You were the best teacher I ever had. You gave me the gift of loving opera and all classical music. You brought out the best in me, and would never let me take the easy way out. I am so grateful for that. You taught with love, passion, strength and commitment. I'll always remember you and your great sense of humor too. Heaven is making more beautiful music because of you and Conrad.

I was thinking about Mr. Strasser today and the kind words he said to me decades ago when I played in the All-City Orchestra. I had to look him up to see if I could tell him thank you. I was saddened to learn that his obituary came up and he had passed over three years ago.

I wasnt a very good player. After failing the audition the first year, the second year I made it, and he noticed and commented that I worked hard since the previous year. He took time and talked to me, not...