Dr.
Herbert Fiss was an important person in the lives of so many men involved
with the Villanova Singers. After he passed away, many kind words were
said in his memory. They are shared in the following lines. If
you would like to share your words and feelings, feel free to send an email
to
andrew.clare@villanova.edu.
"Uncle Herbie" was a huge influence
on all of us as musicians, which is what we became under his tutelage.
We all loved him and tried to emulate his dedication to music while at
Villanova and after. I believe
that I still sing today because of what he taught me as a young man."
- Don Hoyt '70Mr. Fiss was an
excellent musician, a consummate professional and a bonafide nice guy.
He will be missed. I'm certain that he has already broken a baton
directing a rehearsal of the Heavenly Choir. (Can Angels sing Pepita?)
- Tom "Stacker" McConnell '79
I never had the honor of singing under Mr. Fiss,
but I did attend many of his concerts. He was a true professional in every
sense of the word. He will be sorely missed as one of the great
Villanovans.
- Jim Anderson '82
Herbert Fiss was one of the most remarkable
figures whom I met when I arrived at Villanova...I always considered myself
very lucky to have been part of the Singers during the last three years of
his two decades at the helm.
- Rick Rosendall '78
But to have had the great fortune and honor of
being taught and led by Herbert Fiss: that indeed was the the essence of
being a Singer. Stern one minute, joking the next, always striving for
perfection. A master of both music and men, he made us want to sing, and
sing well. Such was his skill, that almost thirty years later I still
remember what he taught. Whether is was in German, Spanish, Latin or
Hebrew, the songs that he gave us are deeply embedded in my memory, as are
his charm, wit and passion. I can say is that I am a far better man
for having met Herbert Fiss. It was an honor and a joy to have sung
for him. I go now, with the world a little quieter, and the music a
little less sweet, but with memories that I will cherish forever.
- Paul Belcastro '77
Mr. Fiss enriched all of us far beyond that
which he taught us about music. He taught us the value of dedication,
hard work, striving for perfection and professionalism...If we believe that
"he who sings prays twice," we can all rest easily knowing Mr. Fiss is happy
in heaven. Just think of how many prayers were said through Mr. Fiss through
the years!
- Nicholas Moles '75
I remember Mr. Fiss well and gladly. He'll
have that upstairs string section in shape in no time and those heavenly
choirs of Angels had better get ready to "sing a little bit sharp."
- Tom Burke '69
He taught me to
sing out and not be afraid of it. He was a major influence in my life.
He started me out on a road I still travel, as I have continued to sing many
operas & concerts in the last 30 years. I think of him fondly on stage
because he's one of the major reasons I'm still there today.
- Paul McIlvaine '71
Dr. Fiss was a tremendous
influence in my life. He was a true genius who had a deep love of
music that he showered over us. His passion for music was
contagious. I still sing today thanks to the confidence and
inspiration instilled in me by Dr. Herbert Fiss. He will be missed.
- Fred Malvagno '70
Singing in the Singers for Mr. Fiss is one of
the accomplishments in my life that I am most proud.
- Dave Koch '74 |
