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CMS Mourns the Sudden Passing of Donaldson C. Pillsbury

The Artists, Board, and staff of the Chamber Music Society are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Donaldson C. Pillsbury, a member of the Board of Directors since 1989, and its Chairman from 1993 to 2004. He had also been a member of the Board of Directors of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Inspired by a deep love of chamber music, Don was steadfastly devoted to carrying forth and enhancing the mission of the Chamber Music Society, and under his guiding hand, CMS flourished. A significant expansion of the Alice Tully Hall series, the debuts of the popular Rose Studio series, notable projects like Beethoven 2000 – one of Don’s personal favorites – and a new national radio series all drew new and appreciative audiences. With an eye toward nurturing future audiences, Don also encouraged the development of CMS’ wide-ranging education programs for people of all ages.

A man of impeccable taste and great integrity, Don inspired the support of a broad range of contributors through his personal generosity and wise leadership. Through his leadership, CMS has been well-poised to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.

From Artistic Directors David Finckel and Wu Han:

With the passing of Donald Pillsbury yesterday, we have lost a true friend and a vital advocate of the arts. His passionate leadership within the CMS Board inspired us; his wisdom and experience guided us; and his warmth and human touch endeared him to us, the staff, his fellow board members, and the musicians. Ever a faithful concert-goer, Don’s twinkling eyes lit our halls with the enthusiasm, open-mindedness, and friendly spirit that epitomize the chamber music experience; behind the scenes, his unwavering support of CMS strengthened us beyond measure. We pledge to Don’s friends and family to continue to strive for the vision and ideals at CMS which would make him proud to have served the organization so generously and faithfully. He will be greatly missed, but long remembered.

The entire CMS family extends its loving sympathy to his wife Marnie and his family.

Many of you have inquired about making a gift in Don’s memory to the Chamber Music Society. For information, please call 212-875-5782 or you may mail your check made out to Chamber Music Society to: The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center 70 Lincoln Center Plaza New York, NY 10023.

Or click here to make a secure online contribution.

Thank you for remembering our cherished friend and longstanding Board member. We miss him.

Press Relations

For Press related inquiries, members of the media should contact Marlisa Monroe by email.