In Memory

Marilyn Schwaner (Orchestra Director)

I'm very sad to share that Mrs. Marilyn Schwaner, beloved Orchestra Director, has passed away today, February 28, 2014. Memorial Service information will be forthcoming as soon as her family has made arrangements.  

UPDATES 
March 1st, from Carl Schwaner:

"A huge thank you to everyone for their best wishes and prayers. We have decided to have a memorial service for Mom in the late Spring. It would be so cool to have some former students play at the service. The tentative date is May 26 (Memorial day).

...I have been reading all your comments with my Dad and he has been very touched for your thoughts. It has meant a lot to him....thank you!"

March 5th, from Jan Schwaner:

"Thanks so much to all of you for your memories. It's been great to hear about Mom's impact on all of you. She so loved teaching you all! You were very important to her. I didn't get to play in her orchestra because it started just after I graduated, but I'd love to play with some of you at the memorial service. How about a movement of Britten's Simple Symphony? I am an amateur but can handle the cello part and we could probably convince my brother Dan to play bass - we just need two violins and a viola. Anyone interested? You probably remember that it's not a very hard piece. I have the music and could send a copy to anyone who's interested. Mom would be so pleased! Thanks!
Jan Schwaner FHHS '71" 



 
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02/28/14 04:43 PM #1    

Carol Swygert (Dupree) (1979)

Im so sorry for your loss Carl. Your mother will be missed by who all loved her as a teacher and a friend. RIP Marilyn.

03/01/14 08:17 AM #2    

Jennifer Irvin (1983)

Carl, 

My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to you at this time.  Your mother touched and shaped so many of our lives and will be in our memories and hearts forever.

Jennifer Irvin


03/01/14 09:26 AM #3    

David "Dave" Bielawski (1979)

Carl,

My heartfelt sympathies for you and your family.  Your mom was a wonderful person, and I have many fond memories of her attempting to teach me the violin (despite my lack of abilities).  Our prayers and best wishes go out to you and your family during this difficult time.  I know she will be always be in many hearts.

Dave B.


03/01/14 11:00 AM #4    

John Elliott (1980)

If it is possible, the music in heaven just improved! 

Mrs. Schwaner was such a positive influence on so many of us. Many times over the years I have smiled when hearing a piece of familiar music that she introduced to us in orchestra; think Pachebel's Canon and many others.

I am so grateful for having had her as a teacher and friend.

Peace and best wishes to the family.

 


03/01/14 06:26 PM #5    

Robert David Aramony (1975)

I played bass violin in Mrs. Schwaner orchestra. Her son Carl was first bass and a friend. I am so sorry for your loss Carl. Your mom was a very good woman and I am sure is much happier now than the friends and family left behind. 


03/02/14 12:18 PM #6    

Christine Owen (Bradley) (1976)

I graduated in 1976 and had Mrs. Schwaner all throughout high school.  She took the full orchestra to Bermuda.  I'm pretty sure we played Howard Hansen's Romantic Symphony, not an easy undertaking for a high school emsemble.  All of you out there who went on that trip will remember what a fabulous time we had.  She was a professional, dedicated to producing quality music from her students.  She was constantly on my case about practicing every night and it payed off.  I still play the violin.  I've been in the Hershey Symphony for 30 years now, and Mrs. Schwaner is the person who I would credit for any success that I've had.  She had an impact on me and to all those students who she taught.  What a wonderful legacy she left behind.


03/07/14 10:54 AM #7    

Bryant Cochran (1968)

I played in the Fairfax Symphony for a little while in the early 70's and your mom was a fine musician.  She was the concert mistress when I was there.

About three years ago, I saw her at a duplicate bridge game at Montebello.  I got to know her some when she played and she was a delight, as well as a fine bridge player.

I am sorry for your loss.

 

Bryant Cochran '68


03/08/14 12:18 PM #8    

Jane Ann Green (1971)

Mrs.Scwaner was a lovely person. I knew her primarily as Jan's mother and a neighbor. Sorrry for your loss


02/03/19 07:38 PM #9    

Kim Alene Mickelson (Whitney) (1975)

I just read of your mother’s passing. She was an awesome teacher and I owe my success as a professional violinist/violist to her. 


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