It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Greg Howard on April 22, 2023 at his home in Charlottesville, Virginia. Greg's life was a life well lived. He was both a devoted family man and a devoted friend. As a musician, Greg was a superb talent. As an inspiration and teacher, he touched the lives of countless musicians worldwide and was arguably the most influential figure in the Chapman Stick community. His was a career of constant exploration and discovery and his first instinct was always to share what he learned. His approachability and his willingness to always give back are the reasons why many Stick players still active today stayed with it after the initial honeymoon. Greg was surely one of a kind and will be sorely missed.

Greg's family asks that you respect their privacy during this difficult time.

My sincere condolences. Prayers for family.

My life has truly been improved because of Greg's music and instruction.

Many thanks Greg.

RIP, Greg.

My condolences to his family and many, many friends. He is a person who really left the world a better place with his music and passion for what he believed in. Rest in Peace, Greg.

A brilliant musician and towering figure who left a huge mark in the Stick world.

But he's also gonna leave a huge space. It's a beautiful space though because the music he made is timeless, his instructional materials will never be obsolete and his clear, measured approach to explaining virtually everything about the Chapman Stick is impeccable. All that will go on in perpetuity. He saw to that.

Bravo Greg! I'm glad I knew you.

-Michael Johnstone-

Oh no! Rest in peace, Greg.

When sitting down to practice I always think of Emmett. Now I’m remembering Greg as well. I hope with all my heart his passing was peaceful. His presence will be greatly missed but his legacy lives on. Deepest sympathies to his family at this time.

I’ve been away from playing my Stick for a couple of years, primarily due to having essential tremors which can make it exceedingly frustrating when trying to play. Today while my wife and I were on our way back from Home Depot a couple of Gregs songs came up on my player… Usually I only get one to show up now and then (the player is set to random and there are a LOT of songs on it) but three or four came up. I’ve been thinking of picking up my Stick again and trying to use it therapeutically and hearing those songs made me decide to check in here and see what’s been going on…

I can hardly believe Greg passed away today. He is a treasure that this community will surely miss. And I want to say ‘Thank you Greg for inspiring me one more time’.

Dave

Sad news indeed.
I’ve been away from the community for some time. Rest in peace my brother. Greg was definitely an inspiration for all of us here.