Merritt Buxbaum

June 3, 1924 – September 7, 2021

Merritt passed at home, following a month in hospice. Merritt married his dear Dorothy on April 11, 1954. Together they raised, and Merritt is survived by, their sons, David and Paul (Mary Clare Gefell), and several nieces and nephews. Merritt was predeceased by his brother, Joel.

Merritt grew up in the Capital Hill district of Seattle, near Volunteer Park, with his beloved parents and brother. Following a school football practice, Merritt was intrigued hearing a friend's father playing the saxophone. When Merritt pursued music lessons, he was advised that one should begin by learning to play the clarinet, and thus began a lifelong love affair with music and the clarinet.

As a young man, Merritt was strongly influenced by Sir Thomas Beecham, who conducted the Seattle Symphony and directed a youth orchestra in which Merritt was a member. During World War II, Merritt played in the army band, including playing music for wounded soldiers. Following the war, Merritt moved to Los Angeles where he studied at the USC School of Music and joined the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1950 at age 24, as one of their youngest members. Merritt also played in movie studio recording sessions and was a member of the famed Columbia Symphony Orchestra led by Bruno Walter. Coaching young hopeful symphonic players was a heartfelt activity for Merritt, as was his participation on the Philharmonic's auditions’ committee. Merritt retired from the philharmonic in 1993.

Merritt's congenial nature was infectious. Affectionately known to his friends as Bux, Merritt’s life was enriched by lifelong relationships and activities. Merritt's sense of humor was ever present, and he delighted in bringing a smile to the faces of all in his company. Merritt pursued all his endeavors with a desire for excellence. He played tennis daily until his late 80's. Merritt cultivated a garden of over 80 rose bushes which he tended with a gardener's passion.

Together, Merritt and Dorothy pursued their interests in music, art, theatre, travel throughout the globe, and in wonderful interactive activities with their many friends including play reading and political discussion groups and bridge. Merritt continued to play his clarinet in retirement, playing duos and occasionally joining Dorothy as she played cello with her chamber music friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the USC Thornton School of Music. Checks, made out to USC Thornton School of Music with Honoring Merritt Buxbaum in the memo line, can be mailed to Office of Advancement, USC Thornton School of Music, 840 West 34th Street, MUS 408, Los Angeles, California 90089-0851. Alternatively, honor Merritt by giving of your time and talent to someone in need.