06/27/2025
We were working at an event yesterday when I heard the news about Alan Harler's passing, so I'm a day late posting my memories and condolences about what a wonderful, warm and talented person he was. I first met him at concerts and events with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia in the 80's and 90's. We since worked together on many projects and world premieres over the years, and he was always an inspiration. You always knew it was going to be special when working with him and Mendelssohn Club Chorus. Our conversations about the music, interpretation and recordings were always important and very special to me.
Thinking back, it's hard to pick just one favorite memory or project with him, but for those who know (you know!), I can recall so many daring and adventurous works with him, at the Armory (remember the horse, the tank, and the rain?), Girard College Chapel (with surround-sound audio tracks), Joan of Arc at UPENN, and so many more. He was as innovative as he was traditional.
Perhaps one his most adventurous and shining moments was the Bach / Mendelssohn St. Matthew Passion at Girard College Chapel in 2016, with a huge assortment of musicians, (2 chamber ensembles) double chorus and soloists, in one magnificent performance that is still today one of the rare performances of this work available. Here's a short excerpt of Alan conducting (I think?) his final major work/appearance with Mendelssohn Chorus, conducting the Bach / Mendelssohn St. Matthew Passion. (the full version is out there if you know where to look.)
Rest in Peace, Maestro, it was wonderful knowing you.
Full Performance - Audio download and Video streaming - available on NAXOS beginning May 6th, 2016. MENDELSSOHN CLUB OF PHILADELPHIAJOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH - S...