Local musician James Herbison died Monday
By David Nicholson | 757-247-4794
3:53 PM EST, November 18, 2008

James Herbison, a talented Hampton Roads cellist and conductor who touched many lives through his performing and teaching, died Monday at age 61 of complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Since 2006, Herbison had conducted the York River Symphony Orchestra, which performed regularly at the Yoder Barn Theatre. He performed cello concertos with that group, including one composed by his wife, Jeraldine. During his long career, Herbison also played cello with the Virginia Symphony and the Williamsburg Symphonia.

"He worked very well with the orchestra, and he knew how to bring out the best in the players," said Barbara Morgan, who plays flute and other instruments in the York River ensemble. "We all loved him, and we will very much miss him."

In 1970, Herbison joined the music faculty at Hampton University and served for more than 30 years, where he taught music theory, coached chamber music students and conducted the college-community orchestra. He later taught at Norfolk State University and, most recently, at Elizabeth City State Teachers College in North Carolina. He also directed orchestras in the Newport News schools and taught at the Governor's School for the Arts, Christopher Newport University and College of William and Mary.



Born in Kingfisher, Okla., Herbison earned a bachelor of music education degree from the University of Oklahoma, master of music degree from the University of Michigan and doctor of musical arts degree from Catholic University of America.

He was also a prolific chamber music musician who played for many years in the Nova Trio. Most recently he was a member of the Arte Musicale String Ensemble.

"When my quartet would play for weddings, someone would always know Jim," said Jena Chenkin, the ensemble's violist. "He would bump into former HU or NSU students, or even just choir members from various churches who would remember him performing at their church. Everyone loved him."