OBITUARY

New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 12455, 25 May 1926, Page 8

OBITUARY

MR GEORGE G. SCHWARTZ A NOTABLE MUSICIAN Those in professional and musical circles will much regret to hear of the death of Mr George Guido Schwartz, which occurred in the early hours of yesterday morning, at his residence, 141, Onepu road, .Lyall Bay, at the age of 72 years. He was an architect by profession, having his office in the Stock Exchange buildings, and was engaged in his work up till midday on Saturday, when ho was in his usual good health. In the afternoon he had an attack of cerebral haemorrhage, from which he did not recover, and he passed away peacefully yesterday morning. He leaves a widow and two daughters, Miss Schwartz and Mrs Fleming Ross, widow of Major Fleming Ross, who went to the war iu command of the Eighth Reinforcements, and was killed in action at the Somme in 1916. Mr Schwartz, who was born in Hamburg, came to New Zealand about 1879, joining his brother, Mr J. H. Otto Schwartz, in Wellington. The following year they joined foroes with several Wellingtonians in organising the old Wellington Orchestral Society, Mr Otto Schwartz being the instigator of the movement, and among the founders was Mr W. J. Harland, of the A.M.P. S’ociety, now the sole survivor. For many years the society enjoyed a successful career, and did valuable educational work in musical circles. Gradually a library of orchestral and chamber music was built up which came to be recognised as one of the finest in Australasia. Mr G. G. Schwartz was librarian and co-trustee with Mr W. J. Harland of this valuable library, the disposal of which is to be considered later on. Mr Robert Parker -was also associated with the society. Mr G. G. Schwartz was an expert exponent on the French horn, and was one of the finest players in New Zealand in liis day. Although trained as an architect, he was an exceptionally good mathematician, and was for some time engaged in the actuarial branch of the New Zealand Government Life Insurance Office. Later, however, he returned to his own profession, and amongst the buildings he designed was the Empire Hotel. In addition to being a member of the Orchestral Society he was also a player, and had judged in numerous solo competitions. He was a member of the Masonic order. He resided in Lower Hutt for some years, but went to live at Lyall Bay about eight years ago. He made many friends, being a man of sterling character and great sincerity. The funeral takes place to-morrow morning, leaving the residence for Karori at 10 a.m.