Former Chicago Symphony Horn Player Dies At 81

On December 31, 2018, Norman Schweikert, a former member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra horn section died at the age of 81. Schweikert was an active member of the CSO from 1971-1997, then remaining a substitute until 2006. In addition to being a member of the CSO, Schweikert was a part of the Northwestern music faculty for 25 years.

Originally from Los Angeles, Schweikert was raised in a musical family and studied horn with members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic performing as an extra with the orchestra while still in high school. Prior to winning his seat with the CSO, Schweikert was a member of the Rochester Philharmonic and the U.S. Military Academy Band. One of his many highlights while performing with the CSO was his performance and recording of Schumann’s Konzertstück with Dale Clevenger, Richard Oldberg, and Tom Howell.

After his retirement, Schweikert continued his research interests into studying the lives of U.S. orchestral musicians. In addition to his research interests, he also played a vital role as a founding member of the International Horn Society.

To learn more, read this article found on the IHS website and this article found in the Chicago Tribune.