Czech Violist Jiri Heger has Died, Aged 77

Heger was principal violist of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra for over 20 years

Born in 1946 in Czechoslovakia, Jiri Heger attended the Prague Conservatory. Arriving in Singapore in 1980, he worked with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) for almost 32 years — 26 of which he served as principal viola.

Upon retiring in 2011, he had played 1,800 concerts with the SSO, including all its concert tours around the world.  

He also taught at the Singapore Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, where many of his students won top prizes across National Music Competitions in the violin and viola categories. 

Notably, he was the inspiration behind the quinton — a five-string viola with an added “violin” E string — which was built for him in 1987 by the violinist Tomáš Pilař, according to ClassicPlus. On the quinton, Heger recorded an album comprising works by Grieg, Franck, Fauré, and Kodály.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jiri Heger, the former Principal Viola of the SSO,” the orchestra posted on Facebook. “As one of SSO’s key founding players, Jiri Heger’s contribution to the growth of our orchestra and to Singapore’s music scene is immeasurable…We have much to thank Jiri for. Rest in peace, dear Jiri. We will miss your smile.”

“It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jiri Heger — a cherished friend, collaborator, teacher, and mentor,” the acclaimed T’ang Quartet wrote on Facebook. “Jiri leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and a void that cannot be easily filled.

“His contributions were marked by ingenuity, and a tireless commitment to pushing boundaries. His teachings were not confined to textbooks; they were life lessons that transcended disciplines,” they continued. “As a mentor, he played a vital role in shaping the careers of many…His guidance instilled a sense of purpose, integrity, and a passion for lifelong learning…Rest in peace, dear Jiri. You will continue to inspire us.”

Our condolences to Mr. Heger’s family, friends, students, and colleagues.