07/22/2024
My dad was passionate about jazz since he was a young child. 🎶 When he passed last year, I thought I would never be able to listen to jazz music again without falling into a puddle of tears.
But, it’s been quite the opposite. When I hear it, especially certain songs, I relish the moment and think warmly of our home filled with Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong, Billy Holiday, Dave McKenna and the Great American Songbook, to name just a few. His collection was vast and remarkable! I didn’t appreciate jazz as a teenager but I grew to respect the musical genre and appreciate it thanks to Dad.
Jazz guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli was one of my dad’s favorites and they became quick friends. We saw him many times together, going all the way back to the Van D**e in Schenectady.
Seeing Bucky’s son John at Caffe Lena last night was so enjoyable! Another incredible jazz guitarist. He learned from the best! We talked about our dads and shared some wonderful memories. I could feel my dad’s presence last night. His smile. His warmth. His love. ❤️
If you haven’t heard John Pizzarelli, do yourself a favor. He and his wife Jessica Molaskey do a radio show called Radio Deluxe. Thanks to WAMC (90.3 FM) you can catch it on Saturdays from 2:00 - 4:00 pm.
So I’ve chosen to honor my dad by following his music and I’m honoring my brother Joe as I enjoy the massive rock ‘n roll collection he left behind. 🎶🎸🙌 ❤️
