The Chester
Ludgin Memorial Fund
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The Chester
Ludgin Memorial Fund |
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Chester Ludgin, our beloved friend and colleague, passed away in 2003. We will never forget Chet. He is in our hearts. He is forever with anyone whose life he touched. His power and strength on stage, his gentleness off stage, his generosity of spirit, his integrity, and the great bulk of work that he has left in our safe keeping, must be preserved for generations to come. We at Opera New York, the company co-founded by Chester Ludgin in 1982, take great pleasure in the establishment of the Chester Ludgin Memorial Fund. This fund is being created to preserve his memory, perpetuate his artistry, and to sponsor his longtime dream - a national vocal competition for Verdi baritones. Chet was among the finest Verdi baritones of the second half of the last century, a great singing actor who created a uniquely memorable character with every role that he performed. In all of the opera world there was no man more loved, more kind, and supportive to all. He was the gentle giant. Chester's generosity to his beloved opera world is legendary. Even when he was more ill than most people knew, he gave tirelessly of himself to young singers in the form of artistic assistance, advice, and moral support. He made himself available to judge competitions, gave Master Classes, and listened to and encouraged aspiring artists. Chet’s help could always be relied upon without question. We can think of no better way to honor his memory and to celebrate his life and career than to pass on his legacy with an American Verdi Baritone Competition. Please help us honor Chester’s memory by making his dream a reality.
[Events, Parties, and Snapshots]
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