New Zealand-born violist Glynne Adams was a graduate of the Royal Academy of Music in London, and performed with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) in 1950–51, and 1955–66.
After leaving the NZSO in 1966, he served as Principal Viola of the LSO from 1967 to 1968, featuring in LSO recordings with André Previn and Gennady Rozhdestvensky. One particular recording included a live performance of Strauss’ Don Quixote at Carnegie Hall, featuring Glynne as the solo viola and Mstislav Rostropovich performing the eponymous solo cello role.
In 1979 Glynne moved to Adelaide, Australia, becoming Senior Lecturer in Viola Studies and Head of String studies at Adelaide College of Arts and Education, performing in a string trio with violinist Ron Woodcock and cellist Georg Pedersen. He also served as Professor of Viola at the University of Auckland for several years.
He died peacefully on 30 November 2022 in Kaikohe, New Zealand, at the age of 94. We send our condolences to Glynne’s family and friends at this sad time.
Read an obituary from The Strad.
Further Reading
Obituary: Terence Johns, 1944-2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Terence Johns, former Assistant Principal Horn.
Obituary: Brian Clarke 1933-2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Brian Clarke, former Co-Principal Viola.
Obituary: Boris Claudio 'Lalo' Schifrin, 1932–2025
The London Symphony Orchestra is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary composer, conductor, and pianist Boris Claudio ‘Lalo’ Schifrin.
