Rose Marie Rockenbach

Photo by: Leslie Holtzman

Rose Marie Rockenbach closely followed Music Academy faculty artist Jerry Lowenthal's masterclasses during the summer and intently practiced on her own. She was busy fulfilling a lifelong dream – learning to play the piano. After retiring from a career in education and emergency services in 1995, she began to attend Music Academy events enthusiastically.

Stated Rose Marie in a 1999 Academy newsletter, "Learning piano is the hardest thing I've ever done! It's a struggle – at this age, hands and fingers don't move as quickly, coordination and memory are not as good. However, being at the piano is also a great pleasure, meditation, and therapy. I envy the Academy's students who have so many opportunities and are so talented."

Rose Marie's passion for music and her experiences at Music Academy masterclasses and concerts inspired her to include the Academy in her estate plan. After reviewing her assets, she determined the best way for her to give was through her retirement funds.

"The Music Academy values excellence and integrity, and so do I," Rose Marie observed. "In addition, I think it's wonderful that Encore Society members are being appreciated and included in the life of the Academy right now."

Rose Marie passed in 2009, and her gift matured, with the Academy realizing a meaningful donation to the endowment that supports the full-scholarship program. We are thankful for donors like Rose Marie that find ways, such as through retirement plans, to support the mission of the Academy by joining the Encore Society.