It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Gary Karr (November 20, 1941-July 16, 2025) — renowned double bassist, passionate educator, and cherished friend and staunch supporter of the Victoria Conservatory of Music. Gary leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of music, mentorship, and generosity.
Musical Legacy
Gary was a groundbreaking double bassist whose international career as a performer, educator, innovator, and philanthropist has spanned over 60 years. Since his 1962 debut with Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic, Gary performed as a soloist with major orchestras on six continents and reached millions through recitals, broadcasts, and acclaimed recordings.
While studying at the Indiana University in 1961, Gary met pianist and organist Harmon Lewis, who became both his musical collaborator and life partner. For more than 50 years, the Karr-Lewis Duo toured the world, captivating audiences and bringing new appreciation to the double bass.
Gary’s repertoire ranges from Baroque to Contemporary, and he inspired dozens of composers to write new works for the instrument. In 1967, he founded the International Society of Bassists, creating a global community for bassists of all ages and abilities.
A passionate supporter of the International Society of Bassists, Gary donated his treasured Karr-Koussevitzky Bass, given to him by Olga Koussevitzky, and nearly $300,000 in COVID relief grants for bassists worldwide. In 2024, he gifted his personal library of over 12,000 scores, a priceless collection of commissions, arrangements, and archival materials, now housed in the Gary Karr Library in Toronto.
Watch a tribute video to Gary on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15RRNkfWix/
A Deep Connection to the Victoria Conservatory
Gary and Harmon moved to Victoria in 1995, building a recording studio in their home and became involved with the Victoria Conservatory as ambassadors, guest performers, and masterclass teachers.
In 2011 Gary joined the Board of Governors and served until 2017. He was later named an Honourary Member of the Board in recognition of his deep commitment and contributions.
Champion of fundraising and mentorship
His values—particularly his commitment to access and excellence in music education—perfectly aligned with the Conservatory’s mission. Over the years, Gary gave generously of his time and talent, whether through philanthropy, advocacy, or mentoring.
On February 26, 2012, Gary Karr, Harmon Lewis and Friends hosted a Conservatory benefits concert in Alix Goolden Performance Hall, which raised $45,000. They performed with four Victoria Conservatory students; Ethan Allers, Razvan Bezna, Christina Chwyl, and Nelson Moneo.
The Conservatory is forever enriched by the joy, warmth, and inspiration he brought to our community. Gary’s spirit will continue to resonate through the lives he touched and the music he so deeply loved. From 2010 to 2019, Gary co-hosted our annual Musical Luncheon fundraiser with Joyce Hodd, even coming out of retirement to perform one final time with Harmon in August 2019. Over the years, the Musical Luncheons raised a total of $163,000 and netted $124,000 in support of the Conservatory.
A Life Rooted in Beauty
Gary was inspired by many forms of beauty and found peace and joy practicing his bass while looking out into his beloved garden. He and Harmon graciously opened their home to the Conservatory on several occasions. Their garden—featuring 1,000 spring bulbs, whimsical sculptures, a model train, and panoramic views of Mt. Baker—was featured three times on the Conservatory’s Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour. A special highlight was the Gary Karr Rose, a one-of-a-kind variety gifted to him by bass players around the world.
In September 2024, Gary invited Young Artist Collegium students to his home for a tour of their recording studio, as well as a moving masterclass and performance. His generosity of spirit and dedication to mentorship left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Gary served as the Honourary Chair of the Encore Legacy Society, a group of individuals who have chosen to leave a lasting impact by including the Conservatory in their estate plans. His own words encapsulate his enduring connection to our work:
Music has been such a focus in my life that I felt compelled to leave a legacy to the Victoria Conservatory of Music.
Gary’s life was a joyful celebration of music—one he shared freely through friendship, mentorship, and unwavering encouragement. His greatest hope was to inspire and uplift the next generation of musicians. To honour his memory and carry forward the legacy he so lovingly built, we invite you to consider a gift in his name.
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