Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
PIA GILBERT Obituary
passed away at her home on May 14, 2018. Born on June 1, 1921 in Kippenheim, Germany, Pia was "addicted" to music at an early age, an addiction that remained with her throughout her long life. Emigrating to New York together with her family in 1937, Pia eventually settled in Los Angeles where she taught music for dance at UCLA. As an emigre in Los Angeles in the 1950's, Pia formed lasting, close friendships with many of her fellow European emigres, writers and musicians, among them the Arnold Schoenberg family, Igor Stravinsky, "my extended family". Pia also had profound friendships with John Cage and Merce Cunningham, as well as Virgil Thompson, Elliott Carter and Ned Rorem. Upon retiring from UCLA in 1985, Pia became an esteemed member of the graduate music faculty at the Julliard School. Her charming and humorous anecdotes of personal experiences with well-known friends made Pia a beloved icon at Julliard. Pia will be greatly missed by her loving family, her daughter, Vivian, brother, Hans and his wife, Barbara and their children, Rebecca, Jonathan and Sarah. Funeral services will be private.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for PIA GILBERT
Dianna Petty
May 9, 2024
Pia was a valued Music and Philosophy instructor for me at UCLA. I truly enjoyed all of her classes, and became a friend as well. You are missed, dear lady. With Love, Dianna Petty
Dianna L Petty
May 10, 2023
You are missed, Pia. You were a gem and a star as an instructor, and musician to schools at UCLA and Julliard. Be well, we think of you often. Dianna Petty
Dianna Petty
May 9, 2021
We, your students, miss you, Pia. Rest well, your legacy is long and plentiful. With love, Dianna Petty
Pia Gilbert and former UCLA students 2017
Dianna Petty
May 23, 2018
Pia, you were a gem, a very bright instructor, and brought wonderful perspective to our philosophy classes. I still say you had the best legs I ever saw on a lady! With much love and fondness. I loved you, Pia. You will be missed.
Fred Strickler
May 23, 2018
Pia Gilbert was an ardent mentor of young dancers, especially at UCLA, where she had an emormous impact on the relationship between choreography and music. She was a champion of of the partnership between choreographers and composers, advocating the fundamental importance of live performance. She was immensely literate in dance and music, charming and demanding as a teacher and colleague. She will be remembered as a tireless and powerful supporter of young artists, an extraordinary collaborator. And she was great fun to be with. Love, appreciation and gratitude to you, dear Pia.
Greta Berman
May 16, 2018
My deepest condolences to Pia's family and other friends. I have loved and admired her for many years as a colleague and dear friend at Juilliard.
Sincerely
May 15, 2018
Please accecpt my Sincere condolences. May the Precious memories forever be cherished & the wonderful times spent together, bring pleasant thoughts. May God's loyal love give you the comfort you need at this sorrowful time and also give you the strength to endure. Psalms 119:76
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in PIA GILBERT's name
Memorial Events
for PIA GILBERT
How to support PIA's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor PIA GILBERT's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
