Adrian Beverly Goldman

Concert pianist, beloved mother, and adoring grandmother Adrian Goldman passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on September 16, 2024. A longtime resident of Woodland Hills, California, Adrian was Jim Rodgers' loving partner for the past 41 years.

Adrian was born in Chicago on October 4, 1933, to Jean and Harry Lerner. She began studying piano at age 8 and rapidly progressed to teaching others. Adrian performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra when she was 15 and a student at Austin High School. She performed Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue with the school band, accompanied the chorus, and was a soloist at her 1950 commencement. Adrian soon received the Ditson Award, a scholarship to the Chicago Musical College. A student of the renowned Rudolph Ganz, she earned her bachelor's degree while continuing to concertize widely. Later appearances include the television program Artists' Showcase, UCLA, and the Library of Congress (2014).

In 1959, Adrian married Dr. William H. Newman, with whom she had five children: Nancy, Loretta, Susan, Robert, and Michael. Relocating to Woodland Hills in 1977, she received a Master of Music degree from California State University-Northridge and established a thriving teaching studio. An adept accompanist and coach, Adrian worked with many soloists and performance organizations. Her most recent congregational appointment was with Faith Lutheran Church.

Adrian met Jim Rodgers through their shared enthusiasm for square dancing, and they followed favorite callers around the country for many years. Adrian was an intrepid traveler with a special fondness for cruises, sightseeing, and adventure.

A vibrant redhead in her later years, Adrian's love of color was expressed in her gardening, painting, handcrafts, and home decor. Her flowers and fruit trees delighted family and neighbors alike. Adrian's enthusiasm for puzzles, games, and live performance was irresistible. She cherished sharing those passions with the grandchildren, watching musicals with Sarah and Stephen, talking mahjong with Bea, challenging Isaac at Scrabble, and holding game nights with Kyle and Analisa.

Adrian's humor, acuity, and love of life-like her music-were gifts she bestowed freely. She distributed her dozen CDs and unique teaching method and instruction books through her website, AdrianPlaysPiano.com. Her numerous recordings of classical music favorites are available on Spotify, continuing to resound in the world.

Information about an online commemoration and shiva will be circulated shortly. Donations in honor of Adrian may be directed to the Hollywood Bowl and Mazon.