In Memoriam

This web site is dedicated to the memory of the late Willem Bertsch who enriched the lives of many by his work as a symphony orchestra conductor, violinist and teacher. Dutch by birth, he was educated in the Netherlands, Canada and the USA. He received a Master of Music from the University of Texas in Austin and was the founder of three thriving orchestras including the Brevard Youth Orchestra, which he led through its first six years. He conducted extensively in Canada, Europe, and the Americas.

Willem served as concertmaster of the Brevard Symphony and Festival Orchestras, Corpus Christi Symphony and the Naples Philharmonic. He studied with Dr. S. Suzuki both in Japan and the USA and was a teacher trainer of his famed string pedagogy. He started the string program in the Brevard County schools in 1981. Highly educated, expertly trained, and with a witty creative mind and a boundless energy, he was able to inspire and be a positive influence in the lives of many by his work in this ever-growing and important program.

He served twice as President of the Melbourne Chamber Music Society and worked tirelessly to promote chamber music. He helped select programs and ensembles for many years and arranged for workshops by incoming ensembles in the schools.

Willem Bertsch died in his sleep on January 14th, 2000 at the age of 72. We will continue to honor his memory and fondly remember his passion for music.