Maria Griffin Carter

Associate Professor of Music History, Popular and World Music at georgia state university

April 18, 2020

To the Nettl family:

It is with surprise that I recently read that your husband, father, and grandfather—Bruno Nettl—transitioned several months ago.

He was my mentor and professor at the University of Illinois, beginning in 1977. I had personally met him at a prior SEM meeting in Boston and expressed my interest in attending the U of I. Several months later, I was offered a full fellowship to matriculate there for a ph.D. in. musicology.

Professor Nettl was a reader on my dissertation committee, attended my commencement, and was a present help and sympathetic ear throughout my career.

He was the quintessential professor—one who pushed you when you needed it, and was always honest when assessing your work. He helped students to complete degrees, publications, fulfill promotions, be at the top of their fields, and become their best selves. He was kind, generous, soft-spoken, humble, and well-balanced—truly a remarkable role-model and professor.

I shall miss him—but he has left many footprints and students who will carry on his good work.

I feel fortunate to have met Dr. Nettl, to have known him, and studied with him. It has made all the difference in my life and in the lives of many others.

You were his wonderfully supportive and loving family who made it possible for him to be who he was—a great teacher, scholar, and friend.

May you forever cherish extraordinary memories of a glorious life!

Peace and blessings