Farewell Gary Karr (November 20, 1941 – July 16, 2025)

Blue Lake Public Radio | By Foley Schuler

Published July 22, 2025 at 11:51 AM EDT

As the classical music world mourns the loss of the beloved double bass virtuoso and teacher Gary Karr, we offer this tribute from The Strad and several clips of his performances from over the years, with which to remember his remarkable artistry—and tune in as Foley Schuler features more related selections during the afternoon this week on Blue Lake Public Radio.

Leonard Bernstein introduces the young Gary Karr:

At the Isle of Mann Bass Competition, 1978:

Performing Schubert's Arpeggione Sonata, with Harmon Lewis, piano:

Foley Schuler

Encouraged by creative parents, Foley began his music career at age 7, studying violin with Jean Manning at North Muskegon Public Schools. As a Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp camper, he became Blue Lake Public Radio’s first high school intern. Foley earned an English Literature degree from Hope College, and Masters in Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from the Warren Wilson College. He has performed with the West Michigan (formerly West Shore) Symphony; served on the English Department faculty at Muskegon Community College, and been the Music, Art & Theatre reviewer for the Muskegon Chronicle. He follows his love of the arts around the globe, but says, “There is no place like the Blue Lake setting, sharing extraordinary music with our listeners.” Foley hosts Blue Lake Public Radio’s weekday classical music from 1 to 5 p.m. and “Sunday on Blue Lake”.

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