Oregon Bach Festival and the University of Oregon are saddened to announce the passing of Andrew Berwick Jr.
The Berwicks – Andy and Phyllis – are long-time advocates of OBF and passionate supporters of the arts. “Andy and Phyzz enriched the UO campus experience for countless students, our entire community, and music lovers from around the globe,” said Sabrina Madison-Cannon, the Phyllis and Andrew Berwick Dean of the University of Oregon School of Music and Dance. “They have an incomparable legacy as tireless champions of music and have been two of our most generous supporters.”
Starting in 2005, the couple became significant contributors to OBF, including a $7 million gift in 2014 to establish the Berwick Academy as one of the world’s top orchestral training programs for historically informed performance practice; and $1.7 million to endow the festival’s professional chorus.
In 2017, they made the lead gift for Berwick Hall, giving $6.5 million toward construction of the 10,000 square foot facility that today provides space for OBF rehearsals, recitals, lectures, receptions, and festival administrative offices. Two years later, they pledged $5 million to establish an endowed deanship at the School of Music and Dance, providing foundational support for innovation and growth in student and faculty projects, programming, and performance.
Oregon Bach Festival staff and artists will honor Andy during the 2024 festival. Information about a festival tribute will be announced in the coming weeks. You can read more about the Berwicks on the University of Oregon website and in the San Francisco Chronicle.
