Alan Paterson (1949-2007)

Alan Paterson, principal horn player of the Richmond Symphony, died April 27 after a nearly yearlong battle with brain cancer.

Mr. Paterson, who earned degrees from Oberlin College and Temple University, joined the Richmond Symphony in 1974 and performed under three of its four music directors. He played in the symphony's woodwind and brass quintets, led the Richmond Youth Wind Ensemble, served the orchestra in several administrative posts, including personnel and stage manager and librarian, and appeared as a soloist on numerous occasions.

He served for two years (1985-87) as principal horn player of the Orchestra of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence, Italy, then conducted by Zubin Mehta, and played in the Chamber Orchestra of Musicus Concentus under Lorin Maazel's direction.

He was a member of the faculties of Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Richmond and the Summer Residential Governor's School for Visual and Performing Arts.

His son, Ian, plays trumpet in the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra and Richmond Youth Wind Ensemble.

Mr. Paterson's wife, Barbara, and family ask that memorial contributions in his memory be made to: Richmond Symphony, 300 W. Franklin Street, #103E, Richmond, VA 23220.

A memorial service and concert will be held May 20 at First Baptist Church in Richmond.