February 6, 2003 – Lou Harrison has been called an “archeologist” who digs down into pockets of knowledge, revealing a world of creativity, insight and discovery.

At the age of 85, Harrison had a long and prolific composing career. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Harrison gathered his inspiration from the spirit of America, Asia and the Pacific Rim. Leaving the traditional style of European composers, Harrison combined both the instruments and rhythms of Asian and American Indians. In each of his works, the focus was vital, filled with humor and creativity. Yet, this songbird will never compose again.

Harrison died after collapsing in a Denny’s parking lot in Lafayette, Ind. while on his way to Columbus to be honored at Ohio State’s Contemporary Music Festival 2003.

Each year the OSU hosts this festival, reflecting on a composer’s works and contributions. Harrison was chosen for this year’s festival after being nominated by Donald Harris, the festival’s coordinator and close friend of Harrison’s.

“He was a true gentleman,” Harris said.

Harrison was chosen for his creative genius and prolific talents. In a tribute to Harrison, 19 of his works will be presented in three different concerts performed at OSU during the festival.

Joseph Panzner and Adam Schweigert, who serve as production assistants for this year’s festival, were excited by the opportunity to meet the renowned composer. Harrison was a figure of expertise and wisdom, being a shared recipient of a Pulitzer Prize and a Guggenheim Award.

Harrison was in Chicago when he received the invitation to the festival. He usually traveled by train or car — he did not want to fly to Columbus. With this in mind, Panzner and Schweigert volunteered to drive Harrison and his assistant, Todd Burlingame, to Columbus.

“We were looking forward to spending six hours in the car with him. It’s a shame it ended after an hour and a half,” Panzner said.

While Harrison was being rushed to a hospital from the restaurant in an ambulance, a “do not resuscitate” order was revealed in his medical chart.

“If he was beyond recovery without taking heroic measures, he didn’t want to be revived,” Schweigert said.

“Thankfully we were only 12 blocks form a hospital. I’m glad I was there to help Todd make the necessary arrangements,” Panzner said.

Schweigert said many who had crowded around Harrison as he lay in the Denny’s dining room did not know who he was and what his life had added to the American culture.

“It was really ironic,” Schweigert said.

While preparing for the symphony, Harris, Schweigert and Panzner were somber recalling the trip. Harris walked to a small package that was received in the mail.

“Here’s his coat that he sent ahead in case he got cold. He was always thinking ahead,” Harris said.

Harrison has a passion for music and a love for students. He had sent cards to distribute to the students during the concerts. During the first performance, a tape will play as a tribute to his works. For those who knew Harrison, or those who have been touched by his music, he will surely be missed.