My sincere condolences to the family of Hillel Kagan.
Many years ago, Hillel was my son Ben's violin teacher, mentor and dear friend. In addition to Hillel's very impressive musical knowledge and skill and his leadership as a teacher, conductor and performer, he was a warm, delightful, charming person and friend. We followed him in many of his musical accomplishments, at Lyric and Concertante and elsewhere, but always uppermost was his loyalty, friendship and warmth. Anyone who was privileged to have known him and to have been touched by his warmth, friendship and loyalty will always treasure memories of him.
- Bob Berger, Highland Park, IL

Dear Helia,

I just learned about Hilel's passing and wanted to send my deepest condolences. I studied with Hilel when I was in middle school and his passion, knowledge and exacting teaching gave me a strong instrumental basis on which I still rely. Hilel was the first person to give me a viola and I am so grateful that he could come hear my quartet when we were in Chicago a few years ago. Hilel will be missed by generations of students, but the gifts  he gave us will live on. 

Yours
Jonathan Brown

Helia, we're deeply sorry to hear about Hilel's passing. Your lessons and Canzonetta program left a big impression on Trevor and are a big reason why Trevor developed a love for violin and a great appreciation for classical music. He was always looking forward to what he would get to play in Canzonetta. From Trevor, Wei, and Jason.

Helia, your husband was a lovely, talented man. It was a gift to have him teach my son, Jacob, and to participate in your orchestra. His trip to France with the group was a highlight. May you  and your family be comforted with grace and peace. 🙏

I was very saddened to hear about Hilel's passing.  He was my violin teacher while I was growing up.  I learned so much about hard work, discipline, and passion from him.  As I progressed through my teen years, he was always a caring and loving adult to me, and he helped prepare me well for life.

All my best wishes to Helia and the family.  He will be missed.

My condolences to Helia and all of Hillel's family. 

I am very sad to hear this news, since Hillel was at the heart of why I play the violin so well today.   My Mom found out about him when buying strings in a store in Evanston and might have been about 7 or 8 years old.  Yes, I do remember him having me in tears in some of my first lessons.   But he always pushed me further.....

If it were not for Hillel I would not have the passion I have for music that I have today.  Sure I had some great teachers in college, but noone, noone brought out the best in me like Hillel did.
I will never ever forget him.

 Armand Dickey
(Condolences as well from Paul, Karen, Christine, Joel and Caterina Dickey)

Mr Kagan’s passion for beautiful music and his ability to connect playing to the profundity of the art made him a tremendous musician and teacher.  He touched me and my son’s hearts. We are deeply saddened at the news of his passing; we will always be grateful for the time spent learning with him and Mrs Schramm.

An artist and a gentleman.  He will be missed.

Condolences to your family. Mr. Kagan was so kind and patient with the kids in Canzonetta and he will be missed. I'm sorry for your loss.

So many fond memories of Mr. Kagan.  I started lessons with him when I was 6th or 7th grade and continued through high school.  How he could focus my teenage squirliness on violin concertos, I’ll never know.  Must have been his wonderful balance of sternness in demanding my best and his infectious laugh.  I am very thankful he convinced me to go to DePaul and study violin.  A big chunk of my repertoire has his pencil markings all over it and I will never erase any of it.  His teachings live on in how I teach my students.  My condolences to his family, friends, and students.  
Angela Martin Licari

With deep sorrow condolences for Hilel Kagan’s family from loving cousin Robert (Tamar) Dushkin. Thank you for many years of loving,caring and deep conversations from Israel.
The picture took place in 2018 at the beach of Herzelia,Israel

I did not personally know this man.  I knew him through my sister, Angela Martin LiCari.  She loved studying with him and continues to play violin and piano at high level.  She has a passion for music and her participation in it.  He left a permanent mark on her musicianship and love for the art.

I’m so sorry for your loss. Hilel was my violin teacher at De Paul University in 1994-1996. I  learned so much from him. He was so caring and really brought the best out of me. He will always be missed and regarded as a passionate and talented musician, conductor and teacher. 
- Lorna Von Seggern

I am so sorry to learn of Hilel’s passing.  I have so many memories of him.  I will miss his sense of humor and his energetic spirit.  His musical spirit and enthusiasms are unquenchable.  I will miss him dearly.  My condolences to Helia and his entire family.  A great loss.

OBITUARY

Hilel Kagan

March 12, 1939 – June 29, 2024

Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home

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