Dear Jerry:

I see that Daniel Gillam also shared the news of the devastating loss at the Jacobs School of Music. I wanted to add a few precise notes about Robert Samels and Garth Eppley, who had a special devotion for new music. As Cary mentioned, Robert sang and recorded with Aguava New Music Studio.

Robert Samels performed the bass-baritone solos in the Midwest premiere and firt university-based performance of Adams's "El Ni�o." He took the role of Creon in the NY premiere of John Eaton's "Antigone;" he sang the role of Marco in the premiere university production of Bolcom's "A View From The Bridge," and he was Dr. Gibbs in the world premiere of "Our Town"--among many other new music performances. Robert also composed, produced and conducted his own opera "Pilatvs". ...And he was only 24!

Garth Eppley was the tenor soloist with the Indiana University Contemporary Vocal Ensemble. This season he sang the role of Pilatus in Arvo P�rt's "Passio"; along with works by Sven-David Sandstrom, Murray Schaffer, and Eric Richards. He also sang in the world premiere of Rorem's "Our Town." With his wonderful instrument and excellent presence he was expected to develop a major operatic career.