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Born: August 21, 1928, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Died: September 1, 2007 - Midvale, Utah, USA |
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The American conductor, pianist, lecturer, teacher and arranger, Dean Edwin Eggertsen (AKA: Leopold Egerinsky, Dean and/or Leopold Eckertsen, Eckertson, Eckerston, Eckersten, Egerinski, Egerinsky, Egrinski, Egrinsky, Eggertsen, Eggertson, Eggerston), was born to Florence Purdie Eggertsen and Bernard Simon Eggertsen. He was educated at the University of Utah and School of Music.
Dean Edwin Eggertsen became a celebrated violinist and conductor. Remaining single, his "adopted family" included many music and arts groups to which he made substantial contributions. His wise investment permitted him to be a principal sponsor of Ballet West, Utah Symphony Orchestra, and many other art groups. He also made grants to causes associated with family and friends. In retirement, wanting to remain active and productive he took a people-pleasing job at a major mercantile establishment. He passed on January 9, 2007 and was lovingly buried on a hillside overlooking his beloved Salt Lake Valley.
In the 1940's, Utah newspapers reported Eggertsen's report of adventures in Russia; he had been contacted by representatives of the Russian Arts, inviting him to conduct orchestra concerts in Russia. Arrangements were made for his air travel. He was taken to a remote part of O-Hare airport, welcomed aboard on a waiting jet plane, and flown to Moscow. He rehearsed and conducted orchestras there, and was celebrated with formal dinners and receptions. He was awarded the title of Leopold Eggerinsky, As an honorary Russian and robed with a handsome black velvet cape robe with brilliant red lining. On return to Utah he conducted local symphony groups to great acclaim. Utah newspapers featured photographs of him in his regal robes. |
