Joy Robin Dronge

Joy Robin Dronge of Stockbridge, Massachusetts died on Nov. 6 at age 87, in Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington from pneumonia and complications from cancer. She was surrounded by family and received exceptional care from her doctor and nurses.

She was a talented musician, composer, teacher, scholar, mother, Grandmother, aunt, sister, friend and so much more.

She was a trained flutist who studied at Music and Art, Juilliard, and Hunter college, as well as many other programs. She had her work performed at Tanglewood, Boston University, Lesley College, Simons Rock College of Bard, Spencertown Academy, Edward Pickman Concert Hall, Longy School of Music, American Women Composers of Massachusetts Concerts at the First Parish Church in Watertown, Kripalu Center, and community television, among others.

The co-founder of the Stockbridge Sinfonia fifty years ago, Joy taught music in the Pittsfield public schools for 14 years. Prior to teaching in the Berkshires, she taught 3rd grade in the New York City public schools. She was a three-time participant in the Creating Original Opera, a program of the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and has received several grants from the Massachusetts Council of the Arts.

She continued to compose through the Berkshire Music School with her beloved teachers and friends Alice Spatz, Norman Thibdeau, and Tracy Wilson until she passed.

Her greatest joy was her four children Risa, Amy, Michael, and David Graubard, and her two granddaughters, Rebbeca Rose and Emma Pearl Payne. She also loved spending time with her companion Sam Barnes. She is remembered for her passion for the arts, education, equality, and for her unwavering love for family and friends.

Her death is proceeded by her parents Al Dronge and Dorthy Abrams, as well as her daughter Risa Graubard, and her brother Mark Dronge. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

As one of her friends said: "I loved her and she loved me. What more could you ask for?"

She is missed and her music will live on.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Stockbridge Sinfonia and/or Ahavath Sholom.

www.stockbridgesinfonia.org

www.ahavathsholom.com