Tuesday, March 24, 2020
I am so very sorry to hear of Merwin's passing. I had literally sat down at my computer last night to try to find some contact information for him, when I read this terrible news. I had the great pleasure to work with Merwin in the fall of 1992, when he was touring "Les Mis" in Canada. The tour ended in Hamilton, Ontario, and we members of the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra were the lucky musicians to accompany the company of "Les Mis" for the end of their tour. It was a very special time for my wife and I, as we were expecting the birth of our first child - and we were sitting Trumpets 1 and 2 in the orchestra. Merwin and I immediately struck up a friendship during that 3 week period, as I became an instant fan when I heard the very first notes of "Stars" come out of his glorious presence. I have followed his career with great interest every since, hoping to again one day work with him. My wife and I were just commenting on this last night, which caused me to try to contact him. I am so very, very sad that his golden voice has been silenced. For me, Merwin set the bar for any and all performances of Javert. He will never, ever be forgotten. I wish the family much strength as you remember and celebrate Merwin's wonderful spirit.
- Larry Larson
Waterloo, Ontario, CANADA
