FAREWELL MAESTRO

October 12, 1935 – September 6, 2007

One of the world’s greatest Tenors died today. Luciano Pavarotti passed away at his home in Modena, Italy at 5 a.m., local time. Pavarotti was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in 2006 and underwent further treatment as recently as last month.

Terri Robson, Pavarotti’s manager said in a statement to the media; “The Maestro fought a long, tough battle against the pancreatic cancer which eventually took his life. In fitting with the approach that characterized his life and work, he remained positive until finally succumbing to the last stages of his illness.”

Pavarotti was born on October 12, 1935 on the outskirts of Modena in north central Italy to Adele and Fernando Pavarotti. Pavarotti is survived by four daughters, three by his first wife Adua and one with his second wife Nicoletta, who gave birth to Alice in January 2003. Pavarotti has one Granddaughter.

Although Pavarotti will most be remembered for his vocal talents he was also an award winning humanitarian having received the Nansen Medal from the US High Commission for Refugees for his tireless work in raising money and awareness on behalf of refugees worldwide. Through concerts and volunteer work Pavarotti raised more than 1.5 million dollars, more than any other individual.