Gordon Wright, one of Alaska's best known and beloved musicians, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Indian, Alaska. He was a Professor Emeritus at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and in his 20 year tenure as conductor of the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra he developed it into a polished ensemble performing full seasons of major symphonic works.

Gordon founded the Arctic Chamber Orchestra in 1970, touring annually to the farthest reaches of Alaska and the Yukon. The ACO also toured in Europe, The People's Republic of China and Spain.The tours were an ambitious Alaskan adventure, making great music while exploring the diverse cultures and vast expanses of Alaska; as well as other parts of the world, no matter how difficult the logistics of moving an orchestra around in remote areas of the bush or half way around the world. Gordon always insisted that the touring was intended to "share the music" without imposing a message.

In 1960, before coming to Alaska, he founded the Madison Summer Symphony (which became the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra), and presented nine seasons of summer concerts.

Gordon conducted orchestras in Germany, England, Holland, Norway, and Bulgaria. He also conducted orchestras in Anchorage, Minneapolis, Chicago, Washington state, Montana, and Idaho among others.

Gordon Wright conducted three concerts in Town Hall in New York City with the Orchestra of St. Luke's presenting the nearly forgotten music of the composer Emil von Reznicek.

He became the Principal Guest conductor of the Keys Chamber Orchestra in 2003 presenting consecutive spring concerts in the Florida Keys. He has the distinction of directing orchestras in the most southern and northern points of the US.

Gordon's recordings include his own music and other contemporary Alaskan composers. He and the ACO twice received the Governors Award for the Arts and a commendation from the Alaska Legislature.

Gordon was equally at home on a podium in a concert hall, or in his rustic cabin in the wilderness. His passion for Alaska carried over to environmental activism. Gordon spearheaded the founding of the Fairbanks Environmental Center in 1971, now known as the Northern Alaska Environmental Center. His love for Alaska's wilds was a major theme in his life.

His many friendships and contributions were carried on with pervasive humor and well known philosophical irony.

Radio and TV notables such as Tom Brokaw, Charles Kurault, Garrison Keillor and Michael Feldman found his story compelling, and interviewed him in live national broadcasts. Gordon's impact on music and on people is truly enormous.

He is survived by family Inga-Lisa Wright, children Karin, Charles, and Daniel, and brother Harry Wright.

Life Celebrations are being held on March 31, 4 to 6 PM and June 24, 2007 in the Davis Concert hall on the UAF Campus.