Jay Friedman. Photo: Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
In Wednesday’s (8/20) Classic 107 (Winnipeg), Chris Wolf writes, “Jay Friedman, the legendary principal trombone of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO), has announced his retirement after an extraordinary 63-year tenure. His final performance with the orchestra will take place in September 2025, marking the end of one of the longest and most influential orchestral careers in modern history. Friedman first joined the CSO in 1962 under the baton of Fritz Reiner and, just three years later, became principal trombone under Jean Martinon. At the time of his appointment, he was the youngest brass player ever to hold a first-chair position in a major American orchestra. His sound would go on to define generations of orchestral brass playing…. The CSO’s brass section became the stuff of legend … At the center of that power and precision was Friedman, whose commanding tone, unmatched consistency, and deep musicality helped cement the CSO’s reputation. Friedman … inspired colleagues and students worldwide…. Friedman also carved out a distinguished career as a conductor. Since 1995, he has served as music director of the Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest, while also appearing as a guest conductor with orchestras … Friedman has arranged and published numerous brass transcriptions … Friedman leaves behind a legacy that is nothing short of historic.”
