In Memorium: Lee Shaw

Story and photographs by Rudy Lu

Lee Shaw was an inspiration to all of us in the arts. Her gentle, sincere ways and quiet courage touched us all, always focused on her art and celebrating the world around her.

When one had a conversation with her, inevitably the topic of conversation would turn to you – how you were doing and what inspired you and made you happy.

Her advice to me as others was to do what you love, and whatever the cost it will be worth it.

Lee certainly followed her own advice; during her 2011 concert with John Medeski at Skidmore College’s Zankel Music Center she actually played through a heart attack.

Her music was always her source of strength. Following that heart attack, Lee’s doctors advised her to play no more than 15-20 minutes at a time, and then take a rest. She never followed that advice, always playing a complete set of a hour/hour and a half, just as before.

Farewell Lee, you will be missed by all of us here on Earth. I am truly honored to have known you and to call you friend. I am sure you and Stan are playing together at the 52nd Street in the sky!

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