Marilyn J. Woloohojian
In Loving Remembrance
Newport Classical mourns the loss of its beloved friend and supporter, Marilyn J. Woloohojian, who passed away on Saturday, April 30th. Marilyn served on the Board of Directors for thirty years, championing the voices of young artists, encouraging audience development, and advocating for music education in schools and access to classical music for listeners of all ages.
Suzanna Laramee, President of the Board of Directors said, “Marilyn brought joy and vibrancy to the Board of Directors. After thirty years, she continued to be engaged, hands-on, and a true leader of the organization. As a member of the Development Committee, she loved connecting people to the organization and making phone calls to personally thank donors for their generosity. On behalf of the Board of Directors, her loss will be felt deeply for years to come.”
Marilyn’s long-standing generous philanthropic support of Newport Classical, alongside her loving husband James, was limitless, sustaining the organization for decades. Sponsored artists include A Far Cry, Charlie Albright, Brooklyn Rider, Richard Glazier, and this upcoming summer’s Opening Night concert with Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and Chad Hoopes. This year’s new commission, “Crooked Shanks” by composer Shawn Okpebholo will be dedicated to Marilyn in recognition of her 30 years of service to Newport Classical, and is sponsored by her long-time dear friend, Cynthia Sinclair, in Marilyn’s honor.
“Over the past year and a half, Marilyn has welcomed me into the organization with profound support and guidance,” said Executive Director Gillian Friedman Fox. “Her support for the future of the organization and direction in which we are headed inspires me. She is so beloved by the staff, and we will miss her dearly and strive to honor her through our ongoing work.”
Marilyn often reminded us, “do not let the music die” and her work with Newport Classical was her proudest accomplishment. Her passion for the future of classical music was contagious and we are all committed to honoring her through the fulfillment of that mission. To that end, we are proud to launch “The Marilyn J. Woloohojian Emerging Artists Fund,” to invest in the next generation of world-class musicians and present their Newport debuts and continue to bring free music education to the students of Aquidneck Island. Contributions to the fund in Marilyn’s honor can be made here.
Alternatively, checks can be made out to “Newport Classical” with Marilyn’s name in the memo,
and mailed to PO Box 3303, Newport, RI, 02840
On behalf of the entire Newport Classical family, we extend our deepest condolences to the Woloohojian family, and dedicate the 2022 Newport Classical Music Festival to her memory and legacy with love and appreciation.
“Don’t Let the Music Die”
