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The Amphion Foundation is sad to learn of Phil Lesh’s passing. Lesh may have been best known as the bassist for the Grateful Dead, but he was also a friend and admirer of Elliott Carter’s music. Conversation was always lively and full of laughter between the two, as evidenced by their interviews and radio discussions. Lesh was also known to attend high-profile performances of Carter’s music, including Carter’s 100th Birthday Celebration at Tanglewood in 2008.

Lesh also supported Carter’s work through the Rex Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by the Grateful Dead that supports organizations and individuals in the areas of arts & sciences, education, environment, indigenous communities, and social justice, and later, the Unbroken Chain Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Lesh in 1997. Through these foundations, he supported several recordings and performances of Carter’s music, including the 1992 Elliott Carter: Concerto for Orchestra recording on Virgin Classics and Bridge Records’ The Music of Elliott Carter: Volume 7, as well as other projects through support to the Musical Explorations Society.

The board and staff of the Amphion Foundation extend their condolences to Phil Lesh’s family and friends during this difficult time.