Philip Yampolsky

founding director of the Robert E. Brown Center for World Music

Dear Wanda, Becky, and Gloria:

Today is a sad day, but also, I think, a happy one. I have been very aware of Bruno’s absence in the weeks since I returned. When I pass by Espresso Royale at the Crossing, where he and I used to go often for coffee, I expect to see him there, and I find myself looking for his car to know whether he got there before me. He was truly my best friend in Champaign-Urbana, and he has left a big hole in my daily life here. But at the same time I see on Facebook how much he meant to his students and his colleagues, and I think how very lucky I am to have known him. I came late into his life, only arriving here near the end of 2007. But he welcomed me in warmly and made room for me, when other people were stand-offish. So kind and generous with his ideas and knowledge and friendship! I remember him every day, not just on his birthday, but it is nevertheless a pleasure to have this particular day marked out to celebrate my dear friend. I hope for you, too, there is happiness in remembering him on this day.

Philip  (and I know Tinuk feels the same)