Notable deaths of 2011: Classical music, dance and jazz
The Mexican-born composer, whose opera “Il Postino” premiered last season at L.A. Opera, died unexpectedly in his sleep in April. A resident of South Pasadena, Catan also composed the operas “Florencia en el Amazonas” and “La Hija de Rappaccini.” (Lori Shepler / Los Angeles Times)
The American composer died in April of complications from lymphoma. During his career, he composed major works for orchestras, including the L.A. Philharmonic, as well as for vocalists and solo instruments. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)
The Italian tenor died in September following a Vespa accident in Parma, Italy. Seen by many as the heir to Luciano Pavarotti, the singer performed in major opera houses around the world. He made his L.A. Opera debut in 2005 in “Tosca” and later performed in “Il Trittico” in 2008. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
The noted jazz drummer died in November of a bone marrow disorder. He gained fame as a member of the Bill Evans Trio and eventually became a composer and the leader of his own groups. (Fred R. Conrad / Associated Press)
