American Violinist Eric Wicks has Died, Aged 89

Wicks was formerly a member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for almost four decades

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) has announced the passing of Eric Wicks, who was a member of its violin section for 38 years from 1968 to 2006. 

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1934, Wicks began violin studies at age five with Alfred Troemel, and later with Helen Airoff, Hugo Kolberg, and Berl Senofsky.

As a student of the High School of Music and Art in New York City, he often performed as a soloist in Town Hall and with the Little Orchestra of New York with conductor Thomas Scherman.

During his time at the Manhattan School of Music on a scholarship, Wicks served as assistant concertmaster of the Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra, and upon his graduation, was made a member of the NBC Opera Orchestra under conductors George Schick and Peter Herman Adler. 

Additionally, Wicks played with the Radio City Music Hall Orchestra, Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, and was concertmaster and soloist of the United States Military Academy Orchestra, assistant concertmaster of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and was on the faculty of the Peabody Conservatory of Music.

In 1968, he was invited to join the CSO’s violin section. After 38 years in the role, he retired and received the Theodore Thomas Medallion for Distinguished Service, wrote the orchestra in a tribute. 

During his retirement, Wicks remained a longtime member of the CSO Alumni Association, and for many years served on the board of directors, including as vice-president. 

Mr. Wicks is survived by his wife, four daughters, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Our condolences to his family, friends, students, and colleagues.