Murray Grodner
Oral History Information
Murray Grodner, along with his first wife Leah, formed Lemur Music, Inc., a catalog business that specialized in the needs of the Double Bassist. His impressive background as bassist, professor and author was perfect for launching a business career in providing needs of his fellow bassists. He began his orchestral career as Assistant Principal Bassist of the Pittsburgh Symphony, then accepted the Principal Chair with Houston Symphony, followed by four years with the N.B.C. Symphony under Arturo Toscanini. After this period of orchestral playing, he joined the faculty of the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, where he later became the Chairperson of the String Faculty. Lemur Music was born in the 8th year of residence at Indiana University as a result of a sabbatical that was, in part, performing on a Pollmann bass in The Danish National Orchestra for six months. After leaving Denmark, he made the acquaintance of Gunter Krahmer, then current maker and owner of Pollmann double basses. Unfortunately, in the late 80’s Leah died before her time. Murray is now married to Susan Stout, who also became a dedicated “Lemurite” until Lemur was sold to Jerry and Tony Buffa. Grodner’s publications include “A Double Bassist’s Guide to Refining Performance Practices”, and 5 editions of “A Comprehensive Catalog of Available Music, Books, Recordings and Videos for the Double Bass” (5th edition grew to over 700 pages).