LA Opera has announced the death of Roberto Cani at the age of 57.

In a statement, the company said, “We are heartbroken to share that Roberto Cani has sadly passed away. His tenure as LA Opera’s Stuart Canin Concertmaster began in 2011. Renowned on stages around the world, Roberto was a singular talent, invaluable leader, and incredible colleague. His constant collaboration with Music Director James Conlon played a crucial role in fostering the success and distinct sound of the LAO Orchestra. Roberto’s warmth, knowledge, and artistry will be dearly missed. We extend our most sincere condolences to his loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”

Born on Oct. 17, 1967, in Milan, Italy, Cani was a prizewinner in the Paganini (Genoa, 1990), Jeunesses Musicales (Belgrade, 1991), and Courcillon (France, 1991) International Competitions. He was also a winner at the Tchaikovsky International Competition in 1994.

Cani studied at the Milan Conservatory of Music in Milan, where he was awarded the Minetti Prize in 1986. He later attended the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music in Los Angeles.

He made his debut at Gaveau Hall in Paris under the direction of maestro Daniele Gatti in 1987 and performed in Italy, Russia, Poland, Croatia, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Spain, Serbia, France, Taiwan, Japan, and South Africa.

Among the orchestras with which Cani performed were the La Scala Orchestra, Bolgograd Symphony Orchestra, Moscow Symphony Orchestra, RAI Symphony Orchestra, Haydn Orchestra, Orchestra Cantelli, Missouri Chamber Orchestra, and the Italian Consort. He performed with such distinguished musicians as Enrico Dindo, Andrew Shulman, Lynn Harrell, and Justus Frantz. Cani played on a 1735 Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù ex Baron Knoop.

In 2011, he was appointed Concertmaster of the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra and worked closely with Placido Domingo and James Conlon, among others.

On a GoFundMe to cover medical and funeral expenses, the family wrote, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Roberto Cani, the esteemed Concertmaster of the Los Angeles Opera and a violinist who’s artistry inspired audiences around the world. After a brave battle with cancer, Roberto left us far too soon, leaving behind his beloved wife Elena and their 10 year-old daughter Sofia. Roberto was more than a world-class musician—he was a devoted father, a loving husband, and a deeply cherished friend. His warmth, passion, and generous spirit resonated both on and off stage. His legacy lives on not only through the music he created, but through the countless lives he touched.”

It added, “Elena stood by Roberto’s side with grace and quiet courage, caring for him while nurturing Sofia through every difficult moment. As they now begin the painful journey of healing, they face not only emotional loss but also significant financial challenges. This fundraiser is intended to help relieve some of that burden—covering medical and funeral expenses and offering Elena and Sofia a sense of stability and support. Every donation, no matter the size, is a gesture of love that will help this beautiful family feel the embrace of the community that Roberto helped build. If you cannot give at this time, we kindly ask you to share this campaign with others. Let us come together in memory of Roberto—to honor his music, his humanity, and to stand beside Elena and Sofia in their time of need.”