It is with a heavy heart that LACO announces the passing of a beloved member of the the Orchestra family. Violinist Katia Popov passed away Friday, May 18th after a long battle with cancer. Katia was a devoted member of the Orchestra for the past 28 years and her vibrant spirit and passion for sharing music will not be forgotten.

The Orchestra’s season finale concerts were dedicated to Katia’s memory. The LA Times included a touching tribute to Katia in their coverage of the concert.

“We were in the Orchestra together for a long time,” said violinist Connie Kupka at the Orchestra’s final performance of the season. “It was a shock to all of us. We knew that she was ill but not the extent. It was very difficult to do the work … but we did do the work. And when we did, we realized we needed to dedicate all this music to Katia. We dedicate it to her, to her memory, to her husband Peter and her children.”