Richard Hayman, whose corny jokes and flashy suits became essential parts of the Pops at Powell and Queeny pops concerts, died Feb. 5. He was 93 years old and, according to the Miami Herald, was in hospice care in New York.
Hayman came to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra as its principal pops conductor in 1976. And as a release from the symphony notes, he also was a highly regarded arranger and composer.
The symphony release quotes chief executive Fred Bronstein as saying, “Richard has been part of our symphony family for many, many years, and delighted scores of St. Louisans with his Pops concerts and performances. He had a long and wonderful career.”
In celebration of Hayman’s 90th birthday, the symphony held a tribute concert. The promotional material noted that every audience member would receive a free harmonica.
Hayman also served as chief arranger for the Boston Pops for more than 30 years.
