Berlin ’78 to Receive ARS Distinguished Service Award

Berlin, who received a bachelor’s degree in music (piano performance) from UNC-Greensboro and a master’s degree in early music performance from Case Western Reserve University, was selected as a recipient due to her work with the recorder at a high level, over a long period of time, extending over more than one specific area of achievement; a high public profile; and significant influence in North America. She plays with the Bertamo Trio, the Farallon Recorder Quartet, Calextone, and Tibia Recorder Duo. Berlin served as ARS Board President from 2006-2008.

Also honored this year was Berlin’s wife, Frances Blaker, who plays with Ensemble Vermillian, the Farallon Recorder Quartet, Calextone, and Tibia Recorder Duo. Blaker has served on the ARS Board of Directors.

“I first met both Tish and Frances one year after I began recorder at the 2011 Fall Texas Toot and was in awe of their recorder teaching ability, musicality, and mastery,” said ARS President David Podeschi.

“They are involved in workshops and festivals on both coasts as instructors and performers, from Amherst to Berkeley and the Texas Toot in the middle… So, at the ARS Board of Directors meeting last fall when the Distinguished Achievement Award came up, I had to ponder for about five seconds before nominating Tish and Frances.”