We are deeply saddened at the news of Maestro John Nelson's passing on March 31 at the age of 83. At PMF 2014, Nelson took charge of the PMF Orchestra at short notice, replacing Lorin Maazel. Nelson's balance of demanding expertise and musical sincerity were resoundingly praised by the Academy, and he captivated audiences with his passionate interpretations of symphonies by Sibelius and Beethoven.
We are ever grateful for his contributions to PMF and to the music world at large. May he rest in peace.
 
Pacific Music Festival Organizing Committee
April 7, 2025