By Julia Gall

Standing before an audience in Blackman Auditorium, Director of Bands Allen Feinstein remembered his longtime friend, professor Charles Ellis.

Ellis, who passed away unexpectedly last summer, taught courses in genetics and developmental biology at Northeastern for more than 22 years. Ellis was also an accomplished cellist, holding a principal position in the North Shore Light Opera Company and was also a member of other ensembles, including the Harvard Music Association Orchestra and Northeastern’s orchestra.

The orchestra dedicated their fall concert Nov. 20 to Ellis’ memory. Feinstein began the performance with memories of Ellis, whom he fondly remembered as “Charlie.”

“Ten years ago when we re-established the orchestra on campus, Charlie was as excited about the ensemble as any of the students,” Feinstein said. “He offered to sit first chair in the cello section, but was willing to step aside for any student who wanted that leadership position.”

He spoke of Ellis’ active participation, patronage and volunteer work in many music organizations in the Boston area, and emphasized his crucial role as part of a musical community.

“It was important to him, that as Northeastern changed and evolved, that musical opportunities here matched the exciting developments elsewhere on campus,” Feinstein said.

A moment of silence for Ellis was held before the orchestra played its first piece, “El’egie” by composer Gabriel Faur`e, a selection chosen in memory of the late professor. The piece featured soloist Jodie Graham, a sophomore music industry major, on cello.

Tim Fredette, a junior chemical engineering major and trombone player in the orchestra, knew Ellis from both the orchestra and his genetics and molecular biology courses.

As one of the older members of the orchestra, he also knew Ellis as part of the ensemble, and said he remembered his excellent attendance for practices and dedication to the instrumental group.

“He was a good teacher,” Fredette said. “I respected him.”