Bidding a last sad farewell to Belgrade Philharmonic Director Ivan Tasovac, artists from all over the world have sent letters of condolence to his family and to the Belgrade Philharmonic. They are, among others, his great friend, pianist Alexander Shtarkman, violinist Nemanja Radulović, and Permanent Guest Conductor Daniel Raiskin.

A book of condolence has been opened at the Belgrade Philharmonic for the philharmonic audience, friends of the institution and of Ivan Tasovac, and for numerous citizens who come to the building on Studentski trg 11 to enter their messages.

Letter from pianist Alexander Shtarkman

I am crying, even though I have almost no more tears to shed. I have lost a friend from my youth that could be chosen only once in a lifetime. We were friends since we were sixteen. We had fun, we were naughty, we celebrated, we sang, we drank, we studied, we danced, and we grieved – together. Sometimes we did not see each other for years but I always knew we were close. Images of my whole life are flying before my eyes. Now there is emptiness in my heart and pain in my soul. And I know that my heart will never heal, and my pain will never disappear completely. But I also know that Vanya’s inimitable smile, laughter, warmth, kindness, generosity, talent, and music will forever remain in my heart and in my memory.

A deep bow to Mrs. Marija Tasovac for her amazing, beautiful son!

Memory Eternal!

Letter from violinist Nemanja Radulović

Dear colleagues,

We are all in a state of shock. I am sure that Ivan would have liked to see you busy and happy as you continue to create music at the same pace, and all of you from the production team as you creatively design future concert seasons. Every note you play will follow Ivan and he will listen to you as he has always done.

As you know, music and art have the power to transform pain and heal not only our suffering, but also the suffering of all people who come to listen to us. And we have that power when we close our eyes to play for all those who are not physically there, but also to perform in any given place.

My thoughts are with you all.

Nemanja Radulović

Letter from Principal Guest Conductor Daniel Raiskin

Dear Friends,

I am profoundly shocked and heartbroken after learning today about untimely passing of Ivan Tasovac… It is hard to imagine a person filled with life, passion, vision and a real sense of purpose the way Ivan was. A true and natural leader, he was a great friend and a uniting force on so many levels. And his unrivaled sense of humor could light up the darkest place at once…

I grieve with his family and loved ones, his colleagues and friends and with so many whose lives he has helped to enrich through the magic of music for so many years.

May his soul rest in peace.

Daniel Raiskin