American Cellist Jonathan Pegis has Died, Aged 61

Pegis passed away of natural causes, at home in Waterloo, Iowa.

Born in Rochester, New York in 1960, Pegis was one of seven children, all whom played string instruments.

His first teacher was Alan Harris at the Eastman School of Music's Preparatory Department, where his first teacher was Alan Harris. Other early mentors include Lee Fiser, Paul Katz, and Lynn Harrell.

A graduate of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, he joined the LaSalle Quartet on chamber music tours of the United States and Germany. He earned his master's and performer's certificate at Eastman, alongside playing in the Rochestra Philharmonic Orchestra.

In 1986, he was invited by Sir Georg Solti to join the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's cello section, a post he held until his retirement in 2018. During his tenure, he frequently performed in chamber music — including concerts on the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Chamber Music Series and the Northwestern University Winter Chamber Music Festival.

Later, Pegis joined the faculty at Northwestern University, teaching cello orchestral studies until 2012.

"“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jon Pegis, a very kind person and a wonderful player," said CSO Music Director Riccardo Muti. "I will remember him and his wonderful contribution to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.”

Pegis is survived by his wife Dawn, along with sons Michael and Jason from his previous marriage to Lisa Rensberger.

Our condolences to Pegis' family, friends, colleagues, and students.