News Summary
Shirley Morgenstern, co-founder of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and a key figure in the arts community, has passed away at 79. Her husband announced her death on social media, highlighting her contributions to local arts, education, and community welfare. Morgenstern’s diverse career included dance instruction, promotions consulting, and community leadership. A memorial service will be held to celebrate her legacy, including a concert set in her honor. Donations can be made to the Cleveland Pops Orchestra to honor her impact.
Cleveland, Ohio
Shirley Morgenstern, a prominent figure in the arts community and the co-founder of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, passed away at her home on Saturday at the age of 79. Her husband, conductor Carl Topilow, shared the news of her passing on social media, highlighting her qualities as strong, loyal, loving, caring, innovative, determined, and generous.
The Cleveland Pops Orchestra, a beloved institution in Northeast Ohio, was co-founded by Morgenstern in 1996 alongside Topilow. Under her leadership, the orchestra has flourished, becoming a cultural mainstay in the region, known for its engaging performances at renowned venues such as Severance Hall and Playhouse Square. In honor of Morgenstern, a concert is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, at Severance Music Center.
A Multifaceted Career
Morgenstern possessed a diverse career that spanned dance, education, business, and community leadership. She began as a professional tap and jazz dancer, performing and teaching throughout her early career. She founded the Morgenstern Dance Studio and served as a master class instructor and speaker, sharing her expertise with aspiring dancers.
In addition to her work in dance, Morgenstern was a successful promotions consultant and owned a modeling agency known as Morgan Models. She also co-owned W.E.L.L. Inc., which focused on developing workplace wellness programs. Her talents extended to sports as she choreographed and directed the dance team for the Cleveland Cavaliers, showcasing her creativity and passion for performance.
Morgenstern was also involved in the pageant scene, serving as a coach and adjudicator for prestigious competitions, including Miss and Mrs. America and Miss World. Her community engagement extended further as a lifelong board member of the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce, where she co-chaired its business show for many years.
Enriching the Arts Community
Throughout her tenure with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, Morgenstern championed initiatives that greatly enriched the local arts community. She was instrumental in expanding the orchestra’s subscription season to six concerts and establishing popular holiday traditions that drew large audiences. Creating opportunities for young musicians, she launched the “Actual Music” education program, the Cleveland Pops Chorus, and the Cleveland Pops Youth Orchestra.
Under her guidance, the orchestra thrived for three decades, thanks to her business acumen and innovative approach to programming. Morgenstern was also an active board member of the Collaborative, an organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking in Cleveland. Her commitment to community welfare extended into animal advocacy, as she incorporated shelter exhibits into the orchestra’s annual holiday concert and promoted pet adoptions during performances.
Legacy and Memorial
Known for her zest for life, Morgenstern enjoyed reading, traveling, and spending quality time with her family. She is survived by her daughter Emily, stepdaughter Jenny, son-in-law Dave, grandchildren Edie and Arlo, and her rescue German shepherd, Rico. A memorial service and celebration of her life is scheduled for Wednesday, October 15, at 11:00 a.m. at Fairmount Presbyterian Church in Cleveland Heights.
In honor of her contributions to the arts and community, donations in her name can be made online to the Cleveland Pops Orchestra.
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland.com: Shirley Morgenstern, Cleveland Pops Co-founder and CEO Dies at 79
- Wikipedia: Cleveland Pops Orchestra
- Cleveland.com: Cleveland Pops at 30
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orchestral Music
- Chroniclet: Pops Orchestra Returns to Elyria
- Google Search: Cleveland Pops Orchestra
- Morning Journal: Conductor Carl Topilow
- Google News: Shirley Morgenstern
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