Concert Went On
Without Marion

Last night (Saturday)was the first, glorious-as-always, Central Vermont Chamber Music Festival concert at which Marion Sanders was not with us. We were told that she died in May.

I am comforted by a familiar prayer which ends "for life is eternal; and love is immortal; and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight."

Looking past our pond to the East Hill horizon, where she and her family spent so many summers, I cherish our friendship. It began one morning in the 80's when she arrived in her signature red shoes at a Hospice workshop and asked if she might attend. We soon realized that we were soul mates.

Several years later she telephoned to tell me of her vision for a way to use Chandler Music Hall in the summer and keep her talented cellist son, Peter, busy. Whom, she asked, should she contact to explore the possibility.

The rest is history. Knowing her and being involved in the festival, now in it 15th year, has enriched my life immeasurable. Though we will miss her, her beautiful spirit will continue through the festival which is dedicated to her this year.

A movement of the Schubert String Quartet in G Major will be played in her memory at the Saturday, Aug. 18 concert at Chandler Music Hall.

Thank you, dear Marion.

Peggy Poffenberger

Brookfield