Distinguished Alumnus Philip Frohnmayer Passes Away

Sept. 27, 2013—We are saddened to report that Philip Frohnmayer, MMus 1972, passed away today, Friday, Sept. 27.

A native Oregonian and a Professor of Voice at Loyola University in New Orleans, Frohnmayer was named a Distinguished Alumnus of the UO School of Music and Dance in 2012. More information on the life of Philip Frohnmayer is available on the on the website of The Times-Picayune.

Frohnmayer launched his career as a baritone in 1976 by winning top prize at the Munich International Competition. He sang major roles in opera and oratorio under several august conductors, and was a graduate of Harvard University, the University of Oregon, and the Stuttgart Hochschule für Musik.

Frohnmayer held the titles of Mary Freeman Wisdom Distinguished Professor of Opera and chair of vocal studies at Loyola, where he joined the faculty in 1982. In 1996, Frohnmayer was given the Dux Academicus Award by the President's Council of Loyola University for excellence in teaching, research, and community service.

In 2008, together with his wife, Ellen Frohnmayer, he received the Gambit Lifetime Achievement Award in music. He was the recipient of the 2008 Vanguard Award for his commitment to teaching in the African American community of New Orleans. In 2009, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the William E. Schmidt Foundation for his contribution to the advancement of the vocal arts in the United States.

Update Oct. 4, 2013: A memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at Trinity Episcopal Church in New Orleans.