I remember vividly, as a 17 yr. old, arriving fresh from Ohio where I was plucked from high school because Karen Tuttle wanted to teach me viola. I had just arrived at Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins U. and I was excited of course. Leaving high school early was a perfect chance to escape from the anxieties of adolescence. But there was no one more welcoming, loving or protective as KT, which we fondly called her. She was the truest mentor imaginable, pouring her entire energy into forming our talents.
And perhaps it was that she would stick her head out the window of the 3rd floor of the music building, and at the top of her lungs bellow 'Rosie!!!' that told me this was no ordinary teacher. Not only would I learn something about viola playing, but I would learn something about life from this true trail blazer. While Karen always managed to teach at the best schools in the country, she was never a slave to formality when teaching her charges. She lived and loved with a passion that could not be bound by any shackles, but expressed itself fully to each pupil. She was the mother, best friend, and biggest fan to each one of us. In each of us she saw our unique possibilities in ways most teachers could not.
She would often tell me I should find ways to marry playing with acting and other mediums, seeing that my personality couldn't fully express itself in the most conventional ways. Few teachers would even consider such a possibility, but thank heavens I found teacher who made room for who I was. And she had the love & patience to work with me when, after breaking my neck at age 15, was faced with the challenge of rebuilding my playing, and even my self esteem. But she saw possibilities yet unformed, which inspired my own unique path. And how lucky I was to work with someone who tirelessly challenged her own playing, mastering open strings and a profound understanding of the physical and emotional components of great artistry. And in each student was forged a sense that is was not just about how well you played, but the human being that shone threw in the music. This was surely one of her greatest contributions.
My dearest Karen Tuttle, I determine to reply to all your expectations and be for others what you have been for me.
