Libby Atwater - Living Trust

Libby Atwater, a published author, journalist and personal historian, has a rich family history tied to music. "I rediscovered the joy of classical music a few years ago when I learned the New West Symphony was performing a few blocks away in Camarillo. My late husband, Don, and I had been involved much earlier with the Design House `99 after a move to Ventura and an introduction to NWS by our realtor." Returning now as a season ticket holder, Libby finds great pleasure attending performances with a growing list of Padre Serra and Tai Chi friends who have also become subscribers.

A favorite memory Libby associates with New West Symphony is when she once attended Easter Monday mass in the choir loft of the Haydn Church in Austria with Don, whose cousins played Haydn's organ and conducted the music! Though NWS performances are not in German and acoustics may not be the same, Libby delights in being transported back in time, closing her eyes and allowing the sounds of the symphony to fill her senses.

Some of Libby's earliest memories are dressing up and going to NYC from her childhood home in New Jersey to enjoy classical music, dance and the theater. Encouraged by her parents, Libby, like many of her family members, shared an affinity for music surrounded by gifted musicians. She took piano lessons on a Brambach piano her mother had refinished, which delighted her. Sadly, the piano had to be sold and would not be able to accompany her when she moved to California. Fortunately, her uncle recognized her talent and bought her an upright piano to continue her lessons through high school. Don would later buy her a Steinway so she could resume her adult training (with Randy Newman's piano teacher)!

When considering her estate, Libby shares how easy the decision was to include New West Symphony as her legacy. "Their creativity and imagination know no bounds in telling us a story. . . Music is the universal language. During a time when there has been so much turmoil in the world, to have NWS bring the community together in a celebration of music and traditions from the Ukraine, Mexico and around the globe is something I want to support. Access to musical instruction in schools is also something to support as it provides much more than an appreciation for music. It requires an understanding of arithmetic and improves listening and social skills. Music has been a source of joy woven through my life story. Joining the NWS Legacy Society is one way I know I can bring joy to others, too."

November 2024