PMF is deeply saddened to learn of the February 1 passing of Peter Schmidl, former principal clarinetist of the Wiener Philharmoniker. Schmidl served as a faculty member of PMF VIENNA 21 times between 1991 and 2011, in roles including PMF Chairman of the Faculty, Artistic Chairman of the Faculty, PMF Artistic Chairman, and Artistic Advisor, devoting tremendous energy not only to educating the PMF Academy, but also to the management of the festival.

The impact that Schmidl had on the development of the young musicians who studied with him at PMF is immeasurable, and many of them are now active in orchestras around the world, principal performers among them. In addition to his work with the PMF Orchestra, Schmidl’s performances as a soloist and chamber musician also captivated PMF audiences. He even performed in various outreach locations outside concert halls and proposed new outreach locations in Sapporo such as Odori Park, bringing music to people wherever possible.
　
We are deeply grateful for his lasting contributions to PMF. May he rest in peace.
　
Pacific Music Festival Organizing Committee
February 4, 2025