Anita was my teacher from when I was six or seven years old, until around 19 years old (2015), until she stopped teaching. I had kept in contact with her after that, and just visited her with my boyfriend, this past March when I came to New Jersey. I had spent a few hours with her, talking and drinking tea. I spoke with her about how I was applying to music school, and listened to a bit of music with her and played a bit for her, as well; she even made sure to show me how her lemon tree was doing, as she always was happy about the little things, and talking about her plants. Although she had not been doing well, she made sure to walk me to the door, like she always did. We took a picture together and she gave me a big hug. She seemed to give me one last bit of her precious advice, "It's not about how many wrong notes you play, what matters is that it comes from your heart." She smiled as she slowly closed the door and said good-bye. Anita was a special woman; she made me who I am, and she felt like a second grandmother to me and a dear, dear friend. Anita always gave, considered, and cared deeply; she always gave advice and pep talks, like when my bunny died before the recital, when someone would bully me, and even to now, going to school. I recall a time as a kid, where she had me sit on her lap as we watched and listened to a more advanced student play; she taught me over the years how to grow to be the same. A couple years ago, when I came to visit, she had even ran out to the store to pick up all different things for me, to have with tea together; this is just how thoughtful, caring, and generous she always was. Although she only knew I was applying and not that I was accepted, thanks to her, I am studying through Berklee. I will carry her passion and legacy into the music I create throughout my journey, as she will not be forgotten. I cannot express the sorrow I had to find this news; she means so much to me and I look up to her, like I have for most of my life. My condolences to her family. She was a purely warm, passionate, thoughtful, patient, talented, intelligent, and beautiful person, with an extraordinarily full heart. I am incredibly lucky to have had a teacher such as her, as most are not as fortunate. She was irreplaceable and inspirational, and will be missed for the remainder of my life, and always. I hope for as much peace and solace as possible to her family and loved ones, in this time.

Our Oma, always and forever. You brought such great joy and laughter to our entire family, and you lit up every room. You blessed us with so much guidance, and we could not have loved you more. The way you always celebrated our victories and accomplishments, and gave us your unconditional love every day, no one will ever compare to you. I take great comfort in knowing that you are free of pain, and reunited with Opa. It warms my heart to know that you are walking in paradise with the love of your life, enjoying your biggest glass of Chardonnay yet. Rest in peace my sweet angel❤️

Oma, I will miss you so terribly much but I know that you are in heaven reunited with Opa and that brings me a feeling of such relief. I will always be thankful for your endless support in all that I have done in my life and I will never stop being so proud of you and telling everyone about how amazing you were as a person, grandmother, and musician. I will love you forever

1% of women achieved a Master’s degree in 1961. My grandmother, was in this percentile, achieving both her Bachelor’s and Master’s from the Juilliard School of Music in New York City - 3 blocks from where I am achieving my Master’s now. She was an accomplished pioneer, a loyal friend, and a cherished mother and grandmother. Rest easy to the woman who taught me to fight for my dreams, I love you Oma ❤️

May the Lord Bless You and Keep You All. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May your memories give you comfort. Linda, I will always remember your mom's gift of music and love for her family.

My deepest condolences to all of the Paerg family. I will fondly remember my 10 yrs of piano lessons in her home. If I was early to my lesson, I was always warmly greeted by her german short-haired pointers and a spoonful of fresh honey from the honeycomb. The recitals always ended with a performance by Anita that always "wowed" the crowd. She was a wonderful person and instructor and she will be greatly missed!