The Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra recently announced the passing of Frank Babbitt, a beloved member of the group. Frank was highly regarded for his wit, talent, and generosity, which he displayed over the course of his 28-year tenure. He was a source of inspiration for many due to his exceptional vocal ability and charming personality. Throughout his career, Frank introduced many people to the bison herd at Antelope Flats and the breathtaking view of the Tetons at sunset, among many other things.
Keep reading to learn more about Frank Babbitt’s life, career, and the impact he left on family, fans, and loved ones.
Who was Frank Babbitt? Learn more about him
Frank Babbitt was appointed to the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra by Maestro Bruno Bartoletti in 1996. He received his BA in Music and Drama from Lawrence University and an MM in Violin Performance from SUNY Stony Brook. In addition to being a part of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, Babbitt was also a member of various chamber music groups and had appeared in events like the “Music Now” series at Symphony Center, the Ravinia Festival, and the “Rush Hour” debut at St. James Cathedral. Babbitt was a talented musician who had also served on the music faculty at institutions like the Merit School, Lawrence University, Loyola University, and the Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University.
How did Frank Babbitt die? What was his cause of death?
Frank Babbitt passed away after battling cancer. Despite his passing, Babbitt will always be remembered as one of the funniest, sweetest, and most talented people in the world. A GoFundMe page was created to support his family, and at the time of this article, it had raised $85,421 USD of its $100,000 goal. Babbitt’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by his family at a later date.
In conclusion, Frank Babbitt will be deeply missed by the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra, his friends, family, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a true talent who brought joy and light into the lives of those around him and will always be remembered as a dazzling luminary.
Tributes pour in for Frank Babbitt
Expressing grief over Frank Babbitt’s death, his friend, Roger Oyster, shared a Facebook post. He wrote, “Pictured here is my dear friend Frank Babbitt, who passed away yesterday. A profoundly talented man he was; extraordinary violinist and violist in the Lyric Opera of Chicago, a gifted singer (did a fantastic rendition of the Ives “General Booth Marches into Heaven” at the GTMF), an actor as well, who combined all his gifts in his own one artist rendering of “A Christmas Carol.” He was also a warm, kind, caring, principled man, with a wicked wit and legendary sense of humor—as well as a spot on Christopher Walken impression. A devoted husband and father, true and faithful friend, consummate colleague and model professional—the Lyric, Chicago, the GTMF family…indeed all of us…are poorer today for his absence. My deepest condolences to Cornelia, his wife, and his three sons. RIP, Brother.”
Another friend, John Kelley, wrote, “Here’s a flashback….circa 1976. Frank Babbitt, Mischa Mischakoff and yours truly….the tender age of 17….I think 🙂”
The passing of Frank Babbitt has deeply impacted numerous individuals, and his absence will be acutely felt. Our condolences and support go out to his loved ones, associates, and the community during this challenging time.
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