June 14, 1934 – March 9, 2018
Beatus Meier died on March 9 after a brief stay in hospice. During his final days, he experienced an outpouring of love and expressions of deep appreciation from friends and former students.
Beatus was a musician, composer, conductor, teacher and beloved friend. He was born in Berne, Switzerland where he was exposed to a rich tradition of classical music. His academic studies include a Master’s Degree in Philosophy and Literature from the University of Berne, a Master’s Degree in Piano and Composition and the International Kapellmeister Diploma from the Akademie Mozarteum in Salzburg and a Doctor of Music degree from Indiana University.
Beatus served on the faculty of Stephens College, University of Texas at El Paso and of Washington State University. In El Paso he served as Artistic Director of Opera Theater and as Music Director of Symphony and Chamber Orchestras at WSU.
Throughout his career, Beatus was guest conductor with orchestral, opera and choral organizations as well as guest pianist in chamber music performances throughout the United States and internationally.
His performed compositions include La Folie Tristan Ballet Scenes (Orchestra), Threnoi Eratou for Oboe, Harp and Strings, Symphony No. 2 Columbia Sketches and Elegies and Dances (Clarinet, Harp and String Quartet).
In his personal life, Beatus loved to explore wild and remote places. As a young man, he had a passion for mountain climbing and scaled many in the Swiss Alps. He continued his passion after immigrating to the United States and explored many remote areas of the North and Southwest.
Beatus was a true scholar. His extensive library reflected his keen interest in history, science, philosophy, literature and languages. He was fluent in three languages (German, French and English) and had a working knowledge of many others.
Beatus was a gifted teacher and performer. He imbued his teaching and performances with a profound understanding of the great composers’ life experiences.
After moving to Port Townsend, he continued to inspire his students to reach their highest potential musically. During his retirement years, many of his former students sought out their former professor to thank him personally for the positive impact he had on their lives.
Martin Beatus Meier was my dear friend. He gave me the gift of music. I will always remember his kindness, his love and his dedication to his art.
“Thank you, my dear one. I will follow you one day, but until then whenever I sing you will be there encouraging and supporting me with every note.”
Please join us for a memorial service to celebrate the life of Beatus at the Quimper Unitarian Fellowship on Saturday, July 7 from 11:00 to 12:30. A potluck reception will follow. The Quimper Unitarian Fellowship is located at 2333 San Juan Avenue in Port Townsend.
