Rhode Island music director Larry Rachleff passed away

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Former music director of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra Larry Rachleff died on Monday.

The organization made the announcement Wednesday that the Rhode Island native died in Houston.

Rachleff served as music director from 1996-2017 and conducted his final concerts with the orchestra in 2017.

“For the second time in less than a month the RI Philharmonic family has been devastated by a loss. Larry Rachleff’s passing, so soon following that of Bramwell Tovey on July 12, further sorrows the soul of the Orchestra and Music School,” said David Beauchesne, Exec. Director of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and Music School.

He continued, “Larry brought an intensity and vision that raised the Orchestra to new heights. His tireless focus on artistic quality, dedication to excellence, and advocacy for music education was embraced by orchestra, audience, and the greater Rhode Island community.”