The Harvard-Radcliffe Orchestra mourns the loss of Dr. James Yannatos, our Music Director from 1964 until his retirement in 2009. Affectionately known to generations of HRO members as Dr. Y, he inspired us with his musical passion and dedication. Dr. Y passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 19th at 1:30 pm due to complications from cancer. As his family notes on his Facebook page, he was “Conscious to the end [and] continued to express his love for life, for beauty, for music, for love. He was a composer, conductor and teacher to his last breath.” Dr. Y was beloved by the orchestra for his kindness, compassion and the way he touched our lives both in and out of Sanders Theatre. He remained an avid supporter of the orchestra even after his retirement, and will be deeply missed by the entire HRO community.