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The wife of composer Gerard Schurmann has announced that the composer has sadly passed away: Today, March 24th at 12.30pm, my darling Gerard, love of my life, passed on into another existence. Distraught beyond words, I am also the luckiest person alive to have been able to share 55 years of my life with him. His thoughts and approach to life were totally unique, like no one else I ever met. He was caring of others, passionate, sometimes difficult but always wonderful, with a vital life force that’s reflected in his beautiful music. He didn’t want to go and fought hard to stay, until age and his failing heart overcame his resistance. My heart goes out to Karen, his lovely daughter and her family in the north of England. It’s tragic that he was unable to see them at this time. He kept active up to the end, sorting out scores and making arrangements for Volume 2 of his film music. During what’s left of my life, I shall devote it to fostering his music. He will always be with me. I would like to use facebook to let people know about a memorial, as soon as we are able to assemble again. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to any animal shelter. Thank you. Carolyn (Nott) Schurmann Over the years I had some very humble exchanges with Gerard via facebook. He was always very courteous and respectful. Upon my first initaion, I got message from him inquiring who I was and why I was connecting with him? I nervously told him I was big fan of film music and was familair with his works specifically his orchestrations for LAWRENCE OF ARABIA. To which he sweetly replied "Any fan of film music is friend of mine" So when the news came out that Tadlow was recording LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (And its a splendid recording no doubt) I was curious if this recording was going to be faithfull to his original orchestrations or not? The previous recording had not adhered to. He was very responive to my queries and promised me that it was indeed being done that way. He even excitedly forwarded my messages to James Fitzpatrick. We continued many exchanges over the years and always responded back. Chandos recording of his film scores is a wonderful tribute to his own scores. Iam glad that second volume is in the works. RIP.