Kenneth A. Stalberg

Kenneth “Ken” Stalberg, 73, of Belmont, Massachusetts, violinist, violist, teacher, and colleague, passed away at Beth Israel Hospital on February 9, 2026 surrounded by family. For nearly five decades, he was a steady and respected presence in Boston’s musical community, known for his dedication, musicianship, and sharp sense of humor.

Ken studied violin performance at the Oberlin College Conservatory and later continued his training at Boston University College of Fine Arts, where he studied with Joseph Silverstein, concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. From 1976 until his death, Ken worked as an active freelance musician in the Boston area, performing with leading ensembles including the Boston Ballet Orchestra, Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Boston Lyric Opera, Boston Landmarks Orchestra, and the Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms Society, among others. At the time of his death, he served as Principal Viola of the latter three orchestras. Over the course of his career, he estimated that he performed more than 1,200 performances of The Nutcracker on violin with Boston Ballet. Early in his professional life, Ken served as violist of the New College String Quartet from 1977 to 1982 before returning to Boston.

Colleagues describe him as a crucial member of every ensemble he joined, both as a performer and as a contributor on many levels. He consistently did more than was required because he cared that everything be done as well as possible. His musical leadership reflected that commitment. It was entirely in character that he insisted on serving on an audition committee three weeks ago, the day after a medical procedure— an act that surprised no one who knew him.

After moving to Belmont in 1991, Ken taught students ages four through adult in his home studio, guiding hundreds over the years. He took particular satisfaction in helping students develop both technical skill and appreciation for classical music on the violin and viola. His teaching combined high standards with steady encouragement. His family knew him as devoted, generous with his time, and quick with a well-timed dad joke.

Ken is survived by his wife, Catherine; his sons, Nathaniel and Gabriel; his daughter-in-law, Hannah; his grandson, Finley; his sister, Dorothy Stalberg; and his brother, Michael Stalberg.His influence endures in the orchestras he strengthened and in the many students and colleagues who carry his example forward.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to gather for Ken's Funeral Service at The First Church in Belmont, Unitarian Universalist, 404 Concord Ave, Belmont, Monday, March 9th, 2026, at 11:00 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Acadia, supporting a place Ken returned to year after year to hike and find renewal, or to the Boston Landmarks Orchestra, whose mission of providing free concerts for all reflects the spirit of access to music that he valued throughout his life.

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