Colburn School Provost Dr. Adrian Daly has Died

Daly joined the Colburn School as provost in 2015 and held roles at the Cleveland Institute and Eastman School of Music

Adrian Daly, who was appointed the provost of California’s Colburn School in 2015, has passed away suddenly from a heart attack while traveling abroad.

Between 2009 and 2015, he served as the dean of the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM), where he expanded the school’s networks in Europe and Asia, plus launched several new academic programs. 

A University of Notre Dame and Eastman School of Music graduate, Daly earned degrees in music performance and literature, as well as a doctorate in piano in 1994. He later served as the associate dean for admissions at the Eastman School.

“The Colburn community is heartbroken by the sudden and untimely passing of Provost Adrian Daly,” the Colburn School posted on Facebook. “Provost Daly believed deeply in the Colburn School and its mission, valued his co-workers, and was passionate about the education and welfare of our students. 

“He possessed a sharp intellect, keen wit, great insight into artistic and administrative matters, incredible work ethic, and a strong sense of fairness — all of which served him and our School so well,” the post continued. “No detail was too small or task too big for him to be involved with, and he leaves an indelible mark on our institution. 

“He leaves behind his four beloved children, a brother, and a sister, as well as hundreds of friends, former students, and colleagues around the world who worked with him and admired him. His passing leaves an enormous hole in each of our hearts.”

“I remember his thoughtful, probing questions and his soft-spoken kindness in his administrative work,” added Dean Southern, CIM’s dean and vice president for academic and student affairs in another post. “I have been grateful for his counsel and to learn from his experience. His tenure at CIM continues to have a lasting impact.”

“Heartbreaking…[I] feel so fortunate to have seen him this last commencement,” commented violinist Anne Akiko Myers. “I’ll be praying and playing for you Adrian. Rest in peace and love to his families at home and Colburn School.”

Our condolences to Dr. Daly’s family, friends, and colleagues.