We would like to express our deep sadness on notification of the
passing of the celebrated harpsichordist/duo-pianist/critic/educator,
Igor Kipnis.  He died of cancer at the age of 71, announcement made
in our local paper (Cleveland, Ohio) of Saturday, January 26.

Maestro agreed most graciously to be a member of our Board of
Directors, and took a small part in the furtherance of this
foundation's aims.  He was, as many of you know, undoubtedly the most
celebrated of harpsichordists; he was, as well, a skilled duo-pianist,
active in recent years with Karen Kushner.  He wrote that he was to
make his debut as a pianist in October of last year.  Igor Kipnis was
the son of the celebrated basso, Alexander Kipnis, considered by many
to be among the top vocal artists of the 20th century.  Igor, as
happens more frequently than might be imagined, declined to follow his
father's profession and instead, became one of our most-admired
instrumentalists.

One of his most cherished projects came to fruition last year when
his efforts to locate and transfer the ten reproducing piano roll
recordings of his grandfather, Heniot Levy (for Welte-Mignon Licensee)
were successful.  Ken Caswell, long-time collector and acknowledged
guru of Welte recordings, in collaboration with Prof. Karl Miller
of the University of Texas at Austin, carefully transferred the
performances on his Feurich piano and a CD transfer was released last
year.

Interested members may view his extensive web site at
http://people.mags.net/

As one who followed his career with close attention over a period of
the last forty years, I will add that he is now, and will continue
to be, sorely missed.  He was always optimistic, outgoing, vastly
knowledgeable and willing, always to share with others his wide-ranging
interests.  Ave atque vale, Maestro.

Albert M. Petrak, founder
The Reproducing Piano Roll Foundation