After 50 years as a violinist in the San Francisco Symphony, I decided to retire in 1986.

During that time, I had been extremely active, being a soloist several times with the symphony, teaching extensively and writing my book, "The San Francisco Symphony: Music, Maestros and Musicians."

That did not preclude me from taking an active part in Jewish matters. I played for almost every Jewish organization in the Bay Area. On occasion I wrote musical articles for the Jewish Bulletin and in 1984 I covered the Jerusalem Music Festival.

Upon retirement I became involved in the administration of Congregation Ner Tamid in San Francisco, and in 1989 was elected its president.

My wife, Geri, and I moved to Oakmont, the senior community of Santa Rosa, in 1990. Our friends expected us to spend the rest of our lives in quiet reflection. That proved not to be the case.

A classical music club had just been started and I was instrumental in its further development.

My contribution is to play one of the monthly concerts each year. This year was a special event, as I had my 80th birthday celebration in the form of a concert.

Through the years, a highlight of my Jewish activities was the playing of Bruch's "Kol Nidre" for that holy day. I performed it at San Francisco's Congregation Sherith Israel for more than 20 years, and continue to play it at Congregation Beth Ami in Santa Rosa, where my wife and I are members.