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Robert DeCormier, beloved friend, mentor, teacher, conductor, champion of peace and justice – with whom Dr. Willis and many singers in our ensemble had a special relationship – passed away November 7, 2017. Dr. Willis served as assistant to him during part of his time with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus, and almost half of Solaris members had an association with him as singers under his baton in that chorus and other choral projects. His kindness, humanity, passion for music, and love touched each of deeply, and yet we are only a tiny percentage of the hundreds and hundreds of people he has touched through music. His legacy will go on and on through his marvelous arrangements of American music – spirituals, folk songs, carols, original compositions, and other world music. We will honor him again and again through his music for years to come, and know he will be smiling upon us as we do so. Thank you Robert, for so many wonderful musical memories. All of Solaris sends our condolences and love to his family at this sad time.
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