Terence Kern, longtime Ballet West Music Director passes at 77

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – May 1, 2015 – Ballet West mourns the loss of a dear family member today with the passing of Terence Kern, who was the Company’s Music Director and Principal Conductor from 1988 to 2012.

Mr. Kern’s contributions to Ballet West cannot be overstated. He was well-known in the ballet world, having enjoyed a great international career. From staff conductor of the Sadler’s Wells Opera to Music Director of the London Festival Ballet, The Scottish Ballet, The Joffrey Ballet and finally Music Director and Principal Conductor of Ballet West since 1988, he touched countless artists and patrons over many decades and thousands of performances.

Mr. Kern was renowned throughout the dance world and deeply respected by everyone he worked with. New York Times dance critic Alastair Macaulay, in a 2010 article referred to Kern as “one of the most expert ballet conductors in America.”

“Terry was a wonderful man and a brilliant artist who had deep knowledge of his craft and special understanding of ballet and ballet music.” Said Ballet West Artistic Director Adam Sklute. “He was also a link to our heritage and our history. There are fewer and fewer people left in this world who worked closely with ballet greats such as Ashton, Dolin, Fonteyn, Joffrey, Markova, Nureyev, Beryl Grey and more. His contribution to the Dance world will never be matched and he will be missed forever.”

Our heartfelt condolences go to his family during this difficult time. Mr. Kern was a remarkable man who made a difference in the lives of many people and a lasting impact in the world of ballet.

Contact:         

Joshua Jones, Associate Director of Press and Social Media

801-414-4101 (cell) | jjones@balletwest.org