Barbara Barstow

In September 1972, I met this remarkable woman as a new member of her orchestra at Bridgewater-Raritan High School East in central New Jersey. In the space of a perhaps ten-minute freshmen orientation I was enthralled by this incredibly enthusiastic woman and convinced about the importance of my high school orchestral experience. She fed my love for music in a way that was hard to believe. Working with her over the next three years was pure magic and her influence was one of the main reasons that I pursued a career in music. We kept in touch over the years, and I have never forgotten her fabulous teaching and effervescent spirit. My deepest condolences to her husband Bill and the rest of her family. Barbara was a treasure to so many of us!

I was happy to meet Barbara
She was my son´s conductor in NJYouth Symphony Orchestra
Beautiful woman

As is everyone who Barbara touched with her amazing, extraordinary kindness, enthusiasm, faith and love, I am heartbroken, but so very grateful to have had the blessing of her friendship for 44 years. Rest in Peace, dear friend! I love you!