Renowned folk singer Epstein remembered for talent, wit
By Reed Williams / Daily Progress staff writer May 19, 2003
Freyda Epstein, a nationally known folk musician and former resident of Charlottesville, died over the weekend in an auto accident. She was 46.
Friends and family remembered Epstein on Monday for her rich alto singing voice, her success as a music instructor and her sense of humor.
"Freyda made an enormous contribution to our community and to communities across the country," said Laura Light, a fellow musician and longtime friend. "She's one of those musicians who makes other people sound really good."
Before moving to Charlottesville, Epstein was a member of Trapezoid, a group based in Elkins, W.Va. She played violin and sang in the band from 1980 to 1988.
"During that time, we did probably over 1,000 concerts and made three albums together," said Paul Riesler, leader of the group. "She was a remarkable singer."
In the '90s, while living in Charlottesville, Epstein played with Freyda & Acoustic AttaTude, which won an award for producing the second-best folk recording of the year. The award was given by the Independent Record Manufacturers and Distributors.
Light, who met Epstein at a music festival in Elkins three decades ago, said Epstein moved to California a few years ago and was a lead choral director for the World Harmony Chorus. Epstein also taught singing, violin and Alexander Technique, a method of body movement musicians use.
She was driving from Washington Dulles International Airport to Charlottesville when she was killed in a car accident, Light said. Light said she and Epstein visited musicians in South Africa in December as part of a cultural exchange program, and the two friends planned to play together on tour this summer.
"We?re all just hurting so bad," Light said. She said she will remember Epstein's unmistakable voice and her "really wacky" sense of humor.
Epstein grew up in a musical family in the Boston area. Her sister, Deborah Lakin, said their mother used to compose music on her piano at home. Lakin praised her sister's musical talent, noting that Epstein played with some of the nation's leading folk musicians over the years, including Doc Watson and Patty Larkin.
"She was somebody who loved life, who absolutely loved her music ? a warm, loving, caring person," Lakin said. "People warmed up to her and would be her friend."
A memorial service for Epstein will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church on Rugby Road.