Image: Wikipedia
Peter Ostroushko was an American violinist and mandolinist.
He first became known to me as a regular on the radio program A Prairie Home Companion.
According to his wife, he performed on PHC over 250 times.
But he did so much more. He performed with a variety of bands and orchestras in Minneapolis-St. Paul and nationally. He won a regional Emmy Award for the soundtrack he composed for the documentary series Minnesota: A History of the Land (2005).
He toured with Robin and Linda Williams, Norman Blake and Chet Atkins. Ostroushko also worked with Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, Johnny Gimble, Greg Brown, and John Hartford among others.
As importantly, he influenced so many, myself included, with his music and his spirit.
Peter Ostroushko died on February 21, 2021 at age 67.
Because of COVID, a rememberance did not ocuur until September of 2022.
It was a memorable evening. If you were a loyal listener of a Prairie Home Companion, like me, you will recognize many of the performers and participants. Even if you were not, you are likely to understand why Peter Ostroushko was so appreciated and remains so after his passing.
Here is the evening celebrating the life and music of Peter Ostroushko: https://www.facebook.com/PeterOstroushkoMemorial/videos/801322417883597