Yura Sophie Chute

Yura S. Chute, 74, of 217 Half Moon Pond Road in Washington died peacefully on February 13, 2002 at her home after a bout with cancer. Mrs. Chute was born on October 3, 1927 in Kaunas, Lithuania the daughter of the late Ignas and Laura (Karuza) Slapelis. Yura was an accomplished pianist, taking to the keyboard early in life. She gave her first recital in Kaunas, Lithuania at age six, followed by appearances on the children's hour on the radio. Yura entered the Kaunas Conservatory at age nine, completing her performance and theoretical requirements at thirteen. She soon appeared with the Kaunas and Vilnius Symphony Orchestras, both in Lithuania. During World War II, she appeared at a Bach Festival with the Kammermusic Orchestra in Austria. During that time she worked as an accompanist, and later gave recitals at the Red Cross Officer's Club in Germany. Upon emigrating to the United States, Yura studied with Rudolph Ganz at the Chicago Musical College and performed under his baton with the Symphony. Winning contests lead to concertizing all through the Midwest, and Yura became the student of Claudio Arrau following an appearance at the Aspen Music Festival in Colorado. She returned to Europe to appear at the Venice Festival with the Chamber Group and as a soloist. Later, in New York City, Yura's musical activities changed to teaching, vocal coaching and chamber work. Yura moved to New Hampshire in 1981, where she spent the past 20 years gardening, reading, writing, and teaching piano. Family members include; one son, Lionel Chute Jr. of Washington, NH; three daughters, Yvette Yura Chute of Boston, MA, Celeste Audra Chute-Wright of Cranford, New Jersey and Laura Morgan of New York City, New York. She was predeceased by her husband, Lionel Chute Sr. in 1995. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.