Robert dePasquale

Robert dePasquale, former Associate Principal Second Violin of the Philadelphia Orchestra, has died at the age of 96.

Born in Philadelphia on November 29, 1928, Robert began violin lessons with his father and went on to study at The New School of Music. His first orchestral position was with the National Symphony Orchestra before enlisting in the U.S. Navy, where he was a member of the U.S. Navy Band. Following his honorable discharge, Robert joined the New York Philharmonic and played for eight seasons under the baton of Leonard Bernstein.

In 1964, he became a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra, joining his brothers William (violin), Joseph (viola), and Francis (cello) both as fellow orchestra members and as part of the renowned dePasquale String Quartet. The quartet, fulfilling their father’s dream, performed together professionally for over 40 years and served as Artists-in-Residence at Haverford College and Villanova University.

Throughout more than three decades with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Robert was also a devoted teacher who shared his love of music with students of all ages. He served on the faculties of Haverford College, the University of the Arts, and the Academy of Community Music, which was founded by his wife, Ellen Fisher, in 1983. He was also a founding faculty member of Prysm Strings, the strings division of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra Music Institute, and of the PYOMI Summer Strings Camp.

Known to all as Bob or Bobby, he was beloved for his warmth, goodwill, and ability to connect with people, making everyone around him feel valued and cared for. He loved spending time with family and friends, enjoyed the Saratoga racetrack, playing cards, and sharing cigars.

Robert was predeceased by his parents, Oreste and Rosa; brothers Joseph, Francis, John, and William; and sister Eleanor. He is survived by his wife, Ellen Fisher dePasquale of Cape May, NJ; daughter, Ellen dePasquale Cobb of Leonia, NJ; son-in-law, Kevin; and granddaughter, Mirella. He will be deeply missed by his large extended family, including sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his stories, grace, and uplifting presence will remain with all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life for Bobby will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the ASPCA or to a favorite charity.