Local arts community mourns loss of Thomas

The Cranston Herald ·

Whether it was in her Edgewood neighborhood, the University of Rhode Island campus, the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra program, or on stage at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Susan Thomas brightened the world of everyone she came in contact with.

Susan lost her decade-long battle with cancer last week. She will be remembered for working, teaching and spreading her love to the Rhode Island music community.

The Rhode Island native taught music at URI, where she was a senior lecturer, and served as the principal flutist for the R.I. Philharmonic Orchestra for the past 28 years. Her husband, Mychal Gendron, is on the faculty of the Philharmonic’s Music School.

“As a performer and teacher, Sue inspired and shaped generations of young musicians,” said David Beauchesne, executive director of the RIPO. “Her divine soul, wonderful heart and incredible legacy will live on in her recordings, her family, friends, colleagues and students.”

Neighbors and friends recalled Susan’s kindness and generosity, knitting toys for newborns, and contributing to many local causes.

Over the years, Susan has received much praise for her performances by the Cranston Herald, Warwick Beacon and Providence Journal.

One memorable concert was the 2015 performance of Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” and Tchaikovsky’s Concerto in B minor.

Susan Thomas can be heard performing Gluck’s “Minuet and Dance of the Blessed Spirits” online at www.youtube.com/watch?vcp.bDTCLnas.

Google Susan Thomas and learn more about this wonderful, talented musician.

Thomas, music