For four decades, violist George Taylor has contributed to the musical life of the Eastman School of Music as an extraordinary artist, teacher, and mentor. One of the nation’s longest-serving Black professors in classical music, he has influenced generations of performers, educators, and artistic leaders through a career defined by excellence, generosity, and service. Gateways Music Festival and the Eastman School of Music celebrate this remarkable milestone with an evening that will bring students, faculty, and the Rochester community together for a moving tribute to Taylor’s artistry, impact, and enduring place within the Eastman community.

The program traces Taylor’s artistic journey through music of deep personal significance, including Diane Monroe’s Duo for Violin and Viola, written especially for Taylor; works by Eric Kivnick and George Walker; and Bach’s deeply expressive Cello Suite No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1008. The evening culminates with Brahms’ sweeping String Sextet No. 1, performed by Taylor alongside Gateways Chamber Players Diane Monroe and Kyle Lombard, violin; Juliet White-Smith, viola; and Alvin McCall and Tahirah Whittington, cello. Pianist Dianna White-Gould is also featured in this recital. Join us as extraordinary artists gather to celebrate a beloved teacher, a profound musical legacy, and 40 years of impact at Eastman.