JOSEPH CIAVARDONE Obituary

I was every fortunate to be introduced to Joe several years ago. We had many shared interests as musicians, and I will always cherish our conversations, as well as the time we had to make music together. Wile I am professionally a saxophonist, trombone was my first instrument, and I still teach beginners. I am happy to be able to pass on the things Joe taught me to the beginners that I teach. I like to think that Joe will live on in this way. I always tell the students a bit about the man who taught me the things I am passing on to them. It is a comfort to read the other comments here about the positive influence that Joe had.

Joe and I had hoped to be able to organize his memoirs for publication. If you worked with him professionally and would be willing to be interviewed, please contact me. I plan to make as much of Joe's experiences available for researchers.

Here's to you Joe.

Posted to SILive March 29, 2012 at 9:54PM

As an up and coming saxophonist on Staten Island a few years ago, I'll remember Joe as that zany trombonist me and a few friends, a good 50 years younger than Joe, would go to New Dorp beach and play music with in that little shack all day, eating pizza and spaghetti ("spags") and drinking wine. We loved absorbing the swingin old wisdom that only one of the last old G's of jazz, a real big-band section player, had to impart. So many stories from Joe! It was like looking into the past to see something we were all born to late to see. Bye, Joe. I'll swing one for you next time I play.

posted to SILive March 27, 2012 at 3:02PM

I can't believe Joe really passed away. He was always sooo nice to me and my little sister. Always helping her with her clarinet and encouraging me to keep singing.

I had the honor and pleasure to play with Joe for the last two years and watch him enjoy teaching a young trombonist in his section. He was a joy to listen to and a great influence on my my playing as well as the rest of the group. God bless.
Anne Erickson

I was honored to meet such an amazing person and music man. Thoughts and prayers.
Love Kelly, Trish and Lilah Kramer

The Clifford Family of Waltham MA :
We are all so very sorry to hear of Joe's passing. He was a good man . He always helped others, he was my Godfather, we connected the past few years. He remained active with the special needs community and helped those who could not help themselves. We will always think of him fondly. May he rest in peace , and may God keep him in the palm of his hand. Our Condolences to the Ciavardone Family- Long time school chum and "Chevy" was best man at my wedding - Jerry Clifford
He was my Italian Godfather : Kathleen Cliford
Linda Clifford, Richard Clifford + Jerry 3rd
Love to all With Our Prayers and Sympathy .

Dear Jeanne,Joey and Jenny, I am so sorry for your loss.You are all in my thoughts and prayers Bevely Grennie Mazza