Lawrence (Larry) Wechsler, 89, a distinguished French hornist and a lifelong advocate for the arts, passed away on Oct. 28, 2025 in New York City. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1959.

Born on Nov. 14, 1935 in Pittsburgh, Mr. Wechsler pursued his passion for music from an early age. He started studying horn in high school with Forest Stanley of the Pittsburgh Symphony. He earned a B.A. in music from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s in music from Teachers College in Columbia University, laying the foundation for a remarkable career that would span more than five decades and leave an indelible mark on the world of classical performance.

Mr. Wechsler began his professional journey as a principal French horn player with the Pittsburgh and Indianapolis Symphony Orchestras. In the vibrant musical landscape of 1960s New York City, he transitioned into freelancing, contributing to commercial recordings and Broadway productions — including playing in the original run of “Funny Girl,” “Company,” and several others. He freelanced with the American Symphony, American Composers Orchestra, and countless other ensembles over a career in NYC that lasted over 50 years. His versatility and talent led him to perform with the Frank Sinatra band, showcasing his ability to bridge classical traditions with popular music.

In the early 1970s, Mr. Wechsler joined the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, where he remained a dedicated member until his retirement in 2008. His tenure at the Met, where he played French horn and Wagner tuba, was marked by excellence and consistency, contributing to countless performances that enriched audiences and upheld the highest standards of musical artistry.

Besides his ongoing chair at the Met, Mr. Wechsler was involved in other musical activities. According to his entry at muppet.fandom.com, Mr. Wechsler was heard on the Sesame Street albums “Big Bird’s Birdtime Stories” (1980) and “Big Bird Discovers the Orchestra” (1981). On the latter, he had a solo turn on “Galop (sic.) for French Horn.” The same source also tells us that Mr. Wechsler participated in the 1975 album “In Tribute to a Friend” (a salute to noted classical French horn player John Barrows), heard in “Variations for Solo Tuba and Nine Horns.” As a session musician, Wechsler played on Judy Collins’ 1975 album “Judith” (including “Send in the Clowns”), Hubert Laws’ “Say It with Silence,” and John Zorn’s 1998 recording “Aporias: Requia for Piano & Orchestra.” He also worked with Philip Glass, including “Glassworks” (1982) and the “Glasspieces” portions of “Dancepieces” (1987). He also played for a time with the New York Harmonie Ensemble (heard on an album of overtures by Rossini and others).

Mr. Wechsler also performed at a 1995 performance at Alice Tully Hall called “An Evening with Chico O’Farrill.” Wynton Marsalis performed on the same program that night.

Beyond his performance career, Mr. Wechsler was deeply involved in musicians’ rights and advocacy through his lifelong commitment to Local 802. His dedication to supporting fellow artists reflected his broader values — he was politically and culturally engaged throughout his life and remained attuned to social issues affecting both the arts community and society at large.

Mr. Wechsler’s interests extended well beyond music. He had a deep appreciation for theatre and literature and was known for his sharp sense of humor. A passionate traveler with an adventurous palate, he delighted in exploring ethnic cuisines wherever he went. He gave generously to causes close to his heart, particularly those supporting Jewish life and American Indian communities. Proud of both his heritage and accomplishments, Mr. Wechsler passed on a legacy rooted in cultural awareness and artistic excellence.

He is survived by his beloved wife Ann Hausman, married in 1999; sons Steve and Mitchell; nephews Mike and Mark Rudov’ and his niece Wendy Rudov Huff. He was preceded in death by his sister Corrine LaDolce, mother Doris Wechsler and father Frank Wechsler.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to generations who follow in his musical footsteps.

To order memorial trees, send flowers, or leave a comment for the family, please see Mr. Wechler’s page at Legacy.com.

SOURCES FOR THIS OBITUARY:

• https://obits.legacy.com/legacy/lawrence-wechsler
• https://muppet.fandom.com/wiki/Larry_Wechsler
• https://wyntonmarsalis.org/tour/detail/12306