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Matthew Olifiers posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
As I listened to a piano solo of T's tonight, I became very melancholy thinking of how sad it was to lose such a talented musician. A friend and I met T and the Dregs in1980 very shortly after he joined at a show at the Silver Dollar Saloon in Bayshore NY. We spent time chatting after the show and were very lucky to have been invited to meet with him and Andy West the next day. I will never forget the few hours of fun before the second night show. We again were fortunate to have with T after a show a year later.
I miss him very much and hope a belated condolences helps spark wonderful memories for his family.
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Larry Novak posted a condolence
Friday, October 13, 2023
13 years has passed and I still think of my friend T quite often. I reflect back on not only our studies together, but our conversations on everything from music to baseball and everything in between. Who knew that meeting you on that chance New Years Night (I wish I remembered the year) would develop into such a wonderful friendship. I'll never forget you.
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Mindy Cohen posted a condolence
Friday, October 6, 2023
Although I may have heard of the Dixie Dregs , I knew Terry from Tanglewood Lane in Lakewood NJ . We grew up during Elementary School and Junior High together.
Remembering the innocent game of Spin the Bottle and Seven Minutes in Heaven at the parties in his basement brings back my fondest memories and the crush I had on him during those years. He didn’t have to be famous for me to admire him.
Mindy Zabarsky Cohen
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John Barkow posted a condolence
Friday, October 6, 2023
I am a Huge Dregs fan and saw them whenever possible. But one cold winter night (early 2000's) I went to Boulder, Colorado to see Billy Cobham and to my warm surprise T was playing with him, it was the Jazz is Dead tour. So, I was able to see two favorites that night. A warm memory from a cold night. Thank you T.
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Simon fro Sydney posted a condolence
Thursday, September 14, 2023
Here we are in 2023 and T Lavitz's memory still holds strong among Musicians and the more adventurous Keyboard players. T was a great Master and his playing on the Dixie Dregs and Dregs albums, along with his own recordings will be forever remembered, an aspiration goal for those worthy of becoming a Master Musician and adventurer. RIP and Vale to the Great T Lavitz!
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STH posted a condolence
Sunday, March 28, 2021
I’m from Atlanta, and remember T. Lavitz and His Bad Habitz band on jazz radio. I enjoyed them in concert at Moon Rakers in the ATL. His music will live on and on in the hearts of music lovers. He is missed. God rest his soul
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The family of Terry Lavitz uploaded a photo
Monday, October 1, 2018
/tribute-images/2400/Ultra/Terry-Lavitz.jpg
Please wait
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Dave Roy posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
When I descovered T's mode playing, it opened up a whole new world for me on the piano. I love his style and I learned alot from his "Around the modes in 80 minutes" video. He is definately still one of my mentors. I will never forget him. My condolences to his family. Peace! Dave
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Al Hospers posted a condolence
Monday, June 8, 2015
Just found this today. I knew T from the Miami days. We played in the 3rd big band, small groups and took many classes together. I got him into this great band I was playing with at Bananas in Coconut Grove when our keyboard player left. 2 weeks later he came to me and said he got offered a job with the Dregs and what should he do? I knew those guys from school and had seen them many times and knew just how great an opportunity it was for him, so I told him to take the gig and I don't even think about it. I was always happy to see his success. Lots of people will miss him, me included. RIP my friend...
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Gary posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Man, it's 3 years later, and I just found a disc called Endangered Species, with Jimmy Herring, Ritchie Hayward, Kenny Gradney and some guy named T Lavitz, in a music store in Ukiah, CA (Dig! Music).
I've been a huge fan of the Dregs & Jazz Is Dead, and I am still in shock, 3 years later, that T is no longer with us. Just stumbling across this disc by chance made me want to put it out there that I'm just another guy who will miss Mr. Lavitz for the rest of my life.
Many, many thanks for the musical pleasure you've brought to many people. And though I've never met you (but saw you smiling onstage with the Dixie Dregs/Dregs several times), you sound like you were a hell of a nice guy, and you left us way too soon.
Hope you're up there jammin' with a heavenly band, my friend.
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Darren Dawson posted a condolence
Sunday, September 29, 2013
I just found out recently T. Lavitz died back in 2010. He was an awesome keyboardist! I saw him perform with the Dixie Dregs 1983,2003,and 2005. I got to meet him he was so nice! RIP T. Lavitz your brother Darren Dawson Scottsdale AZ!
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Robert McArdle Jr. posted a condolence
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Met T at the University of Miami during the Dixie Dregs days.
Super amazing talent. I'll miss him......
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Andrew Siriano posted a condolence
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Good bye our old friend. Thank you for thirty years of joy. We will miss you.
Andrew and Adel Siriano
Chicago
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Maria Barlett posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
I met T when I was a kid, just 17, new at U. of Miami. I was lucky enough to be a singer in a small ensemble with T. as our keyboardist. His musicianship was stellar and I loved working with him. He was always ready for something new, always learning. He told me that when the time came he would play for my recital - but when he made the Dregs, he actually apologized for not being able to do it! Can you imagine? I told him not to give it a second thought and Godspeed. As with a few of my UM classmates, I look him up every now and then to check on his trajectory, well being. I am sorrowed to learn (belatedly) of his passing. Once again, I say Godspeed, T. and many blessings to your loved ones who remain.
T
Tom Bellinson posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Not sure how I missed "T's" passing. I first discovered his work through my appreciation for Steve Morse. However, subsequent musical explorations led me to discover that any musical project T touched was great! I'm still filling out my collection with the balance of his work. What a tragic loss.
My belated condolences to Cheryl and Dylan. From what I've read about him, we had a lot in common. I suspect he was a great person to have in the family.
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Dan Einhorn posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Terry was a great friend growing up in Jersey. It seems like he is more alive to me now because I don't believe he ever received the recognition he deserved. My heart goes out to the family: Kenny and I were hanging out in L.A. for awhile along with Allan Rochman, another good friend who passed years earlier. Robin, I can't even remember because it was so long ago. Thanks for leaving us with some much of your heart in the music you have recorded. Not easy to believe, perhaps for now at least, his presence has never been greater. I always wished he would have play his soprano sax more. It's going to make me search harder for the recordings.
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Darrell "Double D" Soltesz posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
There is not a day, I think about the amazing performances I saw with T at the keyboards, burning up the stage. Thought of you this past weekend in Boston attending my duaghters graduation at Boston Conservatory. Thank you for your music to live on in our hearts!! ~D www.mushproductions.net
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Sean T posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Your talent and music will be missed very much. Thanks for all that you gave.
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Babette posted a condolence
Monday, November 22, 2010
T was an immensely talented musician whom I have long admired. I was fortunate enough to reconnect with him through social networking and was overjoyed to have the opportunity to exchange messages with him over the past few years and to enjoy his most recent musical efforts. I am devastated his loss.
My heart goes out to his family.
You are loved T and you will be sorely missed.
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Linda Lane posted a condolence
Sunday, November 21, 2010
I met T at Interlochen Arts Academy. His girlfriend to be was my best friend Susie. We all hung out and went on to reconnect at the University of Miami in Florida. T introduced me to my husband David.
T was like a brother to me. He is the Godfather of my first born, Andrew Lane.
We all went out to visit T twice in L.A. We had a great time!!
I will miss him greatly. I can just see his warm smile right now. Peace. Love always, Linda
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Phil Janzen posted a condolence
Saturday, November 20, 2010
T,
Thank you for being part of a band that pushed the music envelope.
It was about the love of music.
I had met all the Dixie Dregs 1982 when they gave a concert and break-out clinics at Musicians Institute.
Not only did you blow us away in the concert, you came off stage and were simply one of us.
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Neil Bettencourt posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Like so many others, T for me was "the keyboard player in the dregs"... what an amazing person! I was very very sad to hear of his passing. So young, he will be sorely missed.
A keyboard players player, T stood out as one of the best in the world. Thanks T for everything!
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Maestro Alex Gregory posted a condolence
Monday, November 15, 2010
Dear T,
I am sorry to write late. But, it was only today that I heard the sad news from Rod. I feel really bad that I did not friend you on Facebook, but I don't like Facebook, and the email would not let me reply to you directly. I could not find your home email address. And, though I called Rod straight away to get it, unfortunately, it took 2 months to connect. I also feel very bad that you did not end up playing on Bach On Steroids! as you were, by your own words, the "first choice for the job," as you "would do it for less money than anybody else." I shall miss your awesome humor, and obviously your amazing musical talent. I am truly shaken by the loss.
My condolences to your loved ones.
J
John Smith posted a condolence
Thursday, November 4, 2010
T's passing made me think on just how much the Dixie Dregs has shaped my musical interests. May his recorded musical legacy continue to enrich and inspire.
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Sheryl Rose posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
To T's family, my heartfelt condolences. To T, thanks for so many years of great music...all the way back to the practice rooms at UM.
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Mark Gatz posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Praying for you and the family. So glad I saw you with the Dregs at The Parkwest in Chgo. Loved your playing.
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Cousin Fredda posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
T, I'll miss you so much! Such a sweet and gentle soul. All the wonderful conversations about what really mattered to each of us in the core of our hearts and minds. We were truly kindred spirits in so many ways and connected on so many levels. We were so lucky to re-connect in our adult years and get to know each other like never before. We talked about everything and anything that were on our minds for hours on end! My heart still hurts whenever I think of you!! Your wedding photo sits in my living room. I smile when I look at it!
I can feel you looking down on me every single day. Cousin T,gone much too soon!!! xoxoxo
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Janice posted a condolence
Monday, November 1, 2010
T will be missed by all but his legacy of music will live on. We are fortunate to have known him personally, heard his music or been touched by his enthusiasm for life.
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Dave Bova posted a condolence
Sunday, October 31, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends. Your music will continue to lift my soul with the same joy and excitement of those first times I heard your splendid work with the Dixie Dregs. Thanks for your beautiful music, Terry T Lavitz, you will be missed by many. Rest in peace.
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Cathleen Stewart posted a condolence
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Cheryl - I know all too well the depth of your loss and can only tell you that the pain will diminish day by day. Cherish the love that you had, and the place T will always have in your heart. I wish you peace and healing, and that you will be comforted by the love of all your friends and family.
Cathleen
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Greg Koch posted a condolence
Saturday, October 30, 2010
A prodigious musical talent, an extremely humorous soul and a good friend, T will be missed. He made a big impact on my life and the lives of so many others.
See ya on the other side T!
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Suzanne McNeil posted a condolence
Saturday, October 30, 2010
T, I'll miss you. I was so damn lucky to have met you and hear all your great stories. You lived large.You changed the way I look at music. You were a musical mentor and always will be.
Peace T
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Cheryl Milonopoulos posted a condolence
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Dear Family, Friends and Fans of T,
I would like to thank you all for taking the time to write such heart-felt shared experiences of seeing or hearing T play, your childhood and or college memories of time you spent with him, and your humerous on-the-road stories have all kept me feeling a little less devastated and even provided a little solace, with a few laughs.
It is well said, that when T was with us, he was one of THE MOST GIFTED and TALENTED keyboardist/composer/musicians on our earth whose soul reached his fingertips whenever he played. I fell in love with HIM, his humor, and his unspoken musical emotions the day I first met him.
I wish you all could make it to his Memorial Service tomorrow, but I know although there are many miles between here and where you may be, you may be thinking of T, or playing his music or calling into radio stations requesting your favorite T Lavitz song in his memory....
I am SURE T Thanks You All for listening to and loving him and his music over these many years.
God Bless All of YOU,
Cheryl (T's wife)
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Gretchen Gray posted a condolence
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Still recovering from the shock and sadness of T's taking leave of us. I am flooded with the memories of watching him play when we all lived in Santa Monica in the 1980's. His virtuosity on the keyboard was breathtaking (he told me they were called "chops"). But the musical moment that remains etched in my mind is when he accompanied a female vocalist. I don't remember her name, but I do remember how T crafted his playing to heighten her performance. His playing was subdued when it needed to be and and gave strength when that was needed. For a Jazz/Fusion musician whom I had seen flying around the stage from keyboard to keyboard, I found this aspect of T's musical personality most impressive.
That same quiet brilliance is also evident on the clip he has posted on his web-site from his "School of the Arts" album. I think a new aspect of T's music and personality were just beginning to emerge and I am so sorry that we will not see/hear its fulfillment.
My family and I are deeply saddened at T's passing.
T's mother-in-law and Dylan's grandmother
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George & Sharon Cyr posted a condolence
Saturday, October 30, 2010
T. was a wonderful musician and a great columnist. I used to enjoy reading his columns back in the 1980's on keyboarding and improvisation as I was learning to compose and record demo's in my home studio,and as a guitarist, needed all the help I could get on recording keyboard parts!
Meeting T and having him play a Steely Dan song with Cheryl and Horizon was a fantastic Experience I'll always remember.
T is greatly missed....
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Aaron Wilson posted a condolence
Friday, October 29, 2010
Just a fan in Houston, Tx by way of New Orleans, La. who enjoyed Mr. Lavitz's musical abilities and gifts. I just found out this sad news 10-27-2010 and I am still stunned. My condolences to his family. His memory and music will endure.
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Jerry Doran posted a condolence
Thursday, October 28, 2010
My sincere condolences to T's family, friends, bandmates, and colleagues.
I have been a longtime, huge fan of the Dregs and, thus, always enjoyed T's playing with them, and I especially enjoyed hearing him again a few years ago with his Jazz Is Dead project. The JID show at Lupo's was one of the best concerts I have ever attended.
I was also fortunate enough to meet and chat briefly with T on a couple of occasions. As many others have noted, he was always extremely nice, cool, and of course, funny. And I was a recipient of his good nature again a couple of years ago. I posted an ad on Boston Craigslist, looking for musicians who might be interested in trying to work on some Dregs' tunes. Who did I get a reply from? T! He wrote a nice note, infused with his trademark humor, offering encouragment with my project and expressing appreciation for my continued interest in, and support of, their music.
I am deeply saddened by this loss. And I again offer my deepest sympathy to his family and all those close to him.
Rest in peace, T.
Sincerely,
Jerry Doran
Warwick, RI
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Rod Morgenstein posted a condolence
Thursday, October 28, 2010
I met T when we were students at the University of Miami. He joined the Dixie Dregs 3 years later and the rest is history. Not only was he an incredible musician, T was, without a doubt, the comedian of the band, often times keeping us in a continual state of laughter during some of the really long travel days on the road. My bandmate and friend, T leaves behind a legacy of some of the most beautiful and timeless music for all the world to enjoy and be inspired by.
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Judy Jones posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
T was a funny, talented man. The great memories made decades ago seem like a beautiful dream. We had so much fun everytime he and the Dregs came to the Charlotte area. I send my prayers for comfort and peace to his family. He will be greatly missed; but, remembered fondly always.
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Vicky Mazzone posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
My heart goes out to T's family and friends. And all of the Dregs fans. Rest in peace, T.
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Marcos R. Cardoso posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
You'll be long missed, T Lavitz!
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Frank Whitfield posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
I was the Dixie Grits first "roadie" and knew Steve and Andy back in the day. As they moved on in their careers, I followed their band's development. T. Lavitz was a great musician and addition to the Dregs. He was and is a core part of the Dregs signature sound. His musical legacy will live on in his recorded works. Rest in peace T.
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Butch Giusto posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
T, thanks for the wonderful catalog of music. Why did you have to go so early? Always ahead of the crowd as ususal. I'll miss you.
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Pat Polson posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
I met T when he was playing with the Dregs. He was a great guy to be around as well as a incredible keyboard player. He will be missed by all who knew him. My prayers to his family.
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Jimmib posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Thank You for being there in that time when music was ahead of it's time!!!!
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Woody Moran posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
We go back to your 1st days with the Dregs and you've been a friend ever since. It's always funny the things you remember. I remember staying at your house in Atlanta and watching you work on new parts that Steve had given you for a new tune. I remember you and Rod staying at our house in Boston and the next morning the Entemanns pastires were missing; "the dog ate it" (except there was no dog.)I remember you talking Steve into letting me fly with you guys after a gig from N. Carolina back to Atlanta. I remember a trip on the ferry to Martha's Vineyard for Thanksgiving with Andy's family. Watching fireworks on the 4th of July in Malibu. Performances with the Dregs and Bluesbusters and solo shows. Organizing endorsements & clinics. We shared highs & lows throughout our lives. Great times, great adventures, great music, great laughs. I will really miss you.
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Frank Troutman III posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Thanks for the inspiration and some fantastic memories "T"!(-seeing him w/The Dregs several times, solo at The Mint in L.A., with Widespread Panic, and later with the Dead tribute band- he was an inspiration for me to play music.)
T
Travis Claxton posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
A great musician that shared his gift with the world.My condolences to his family and friends.
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Russ Jones posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
had way too much fun back in the early 80's T was an incredible musician, very funny, unaffected by his talent and great to be with, he's missed, big time... cya some day T.
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David "Dopp"Colvin posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
T,
I'm gonna miss ya. You were an incredible talent, and one of the funniest guys I've ever met. Rest in Peace my friend. See you on the other side.
Dopp
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Eric Holmquist/KANSAS posted a condolence
Monday, October 25, 2010
T Lavitz was an amazing musician and just a down to earth guy. I remember talking with him about all sorts of music that we both liked. Just a nice guy whose life ended way to short. Hope we meet again on the other side. Rest In Peace.....Eric Holmquist/KANSAS Drum Technician
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Steve Morse posted a condolence
Saturday, October 23, 2010
I will miss all our long conversations on the road, and your genuine solos onstage. I will see you upstairs, I imagine, when my time comes. I'm overseas the day of your services, so rest in peace, my friend.
K
Kim & Billy posted a condolence
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Our deepest condolences go out to Cheryl, Dylan, and T's family. We will cherish our fond memories with T and truly miss his sense of humor. He was such a talented and well respected musician who will not only be missed by his family but also his fellow musicians, colleagues, and fans. Your humor and fond memories will live on in our hearts forever. "T"-may you rest in peace and find internal happiness.....xo
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Andy West posted a condolence
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Much sadness here that we will never see T again. Many, many memories long gone but never forgotten. Thank goodness there is much on the internet to remind me and bring it all right back for all of us. All my love to the family and close friends of T.
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Adam Holzman posted a condolence
Friday, October 22, 2010
A great player and a good friend. I will miss him.
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DarleneCosta posted a condolence
Thursday, October 21, 2010
MY HEART GOES OUT TO CHERLY AND HER FAMILY, T WAS A GOOD GUY MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
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Ian Blei posted a condolence
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The gentlest soul.
so moved by others' pain.
feeling everything so deeply.
The brilliance of talent.
dancing, nimble fingers.
evoking equal depth of feelings in us.
dear T, you will be so missed.
and always so loved.
peace at last, dear fiend.
peace for you.
love,
ian
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Susie Smith Briggs posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
T and I met during our senior year in high school at Interlochen Arts Academy. We went from teenagers to young adults together, in a nine year relationship that was loving, full of adventure and great experiences. Life was never dull. I cherish the memories of the time we spent together, and will always remember his loyalty, humor and talent.
D
David Lane posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
I will truly miss you my friend!! From our first days at UM, to introducing me to my best friend (my wife), to being the godfather to my son... words will never suffice.. Boner, "Save me a plate of green spaghetti for me."
B
Bob Doezema posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
T Lavitz started teaching in the 5-Week Summer Performance Program at Berklee College in 2006. He was hired because of his strong interest in teaching young musicians, his brilliant career as a performer, and the many supportive recommendations from Berklee faculty and president Roger Brown. He taught theory classes and ensembles including a high level rock ensemble with a select group of students. That year he also performed in our Performance Perspectives class with his group "Jazz is Dead." Due to the success of the ensemble, his teaching style and our interest in starting a program dedicated to rock music, T was hired as the Artistic Director of the 5-Week Program's Rock Workshop in 2007. The Rock Workshop was modeled after our Jazz Workshop with Artistic Director Terri Lyne Carrington. T has been the Artistic Director of the Rock Workshop ever since and has been brilliant in that role. His teaching, playing and writing have been a source of inspiration for all of us-- students, faculty, and directors. He will be greatly missed.
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Bill McGoldrick posted a condolence
Monday, October 18, 2010
T will be missed and condolences to the family. He was a great musician, the best keyboard player I have played with in my 40 years of playing and a great guy. I am very saddened
J
John and Jocelyn Raquepau posted a condolence
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Thanks for the friendship and wonderful music T.
J
Jocelyn Raquepau posted a condolence
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Cheryl, I am so very sorry for your loss. T was a genuinely good soul as well as one of the most talented musicians on the planet. I will cherish so many memories of him. For nearly 30 years and on both coasts, I was privileged to attend MANY of his shows. One never knew what T would pull out of the hat, but it was always a lesson on musicianship and having something to say, and always great fun! Some of my fondest memories were the lessons I took with him in Santa Monica. T would fix a pot of coffee (his secret half-and-half blend), we'd catch up on the latest, and sometimes play armchair psychologist for each other. Then we'd step over to the keyboard, and T would proceed to blow my mind with the latest musical project he was working on at the time. I couldn't believe he would actually ask for my opinion! T was the master of subtlety and craftsmanship on the keyboard, and being a natural teacher, he helped me in a million ways. Of course, there were sometimes life's interruptions during the lesson - including the time he had to yell into the bedroom at Dylan to get her pet hamster off the bed! T so deeply loved her and you, Cheryl, and had more friends than I even realized. He will be so greatly missed.
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Randy Lane posted a condolence
Saturday, October 16, 2010
I've known T since his first days with the Dregs. I will forever miss his humor and wit. His playing blew me away! For 30 some odd years I watched him perform with the Dregs. If they were anywhere near NY, I was there. We had a running joke that I was in the band before he was,as I knew Rod and all the Dregs before T joined the band. Truth is, I watched, we all watched in amazement, as he and The Dregs performed their magic. With a very heavy heart my condolenses go out to Cheryl, Dylan, T's family and friends. T, I will always miss you.
R
Randy Lane posted a condolence
Saturday, October 16, 2010
I've known T since his first days with the Dregs. I will forever miss his humor and wit. His playing blew me away! I'll never forget those facial expressions when he'd hit certain notes.For 30 some odd years I watched him perform with the Dregs. If they were anywhere near NY, I was there. We had a running joke that I was in the band before he was,as I knew Rod and all the Dregs before T joined the band. Truth is, I watched, we all watched in amazement, as he and The Dregs performed their magic. With a very heavy heart my condolenses go out to Cheryl, Dylan, T's family and friends. T, I will always miss you.
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Randy Lane posted a condolence
Saturday, October 16, 2010
I've known T since his first days with the Dregs. I will forever miss his humor and wit. His playing blew me away! I'll never forget those facial expressions when he'd hit certain notes.For 30 some odd years I watched him perform with the Dregs. If they were anywhere near NY, I was there. We had a running joke that I was in the band before he was,as I knew Rod and all the Dregs before T joined the band. Truth is, I watched, we all watched in amazement, as he and The Dregs performed their magic. With a very heavy heart my condolences go out to Cheryl, Dylan, T's family and friends. T, I will always miss you.
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Stephen "Doc:" Patt posted a condolence
Saturday, October 16, 2010
T, you were an awesome human being--very aware of your own temptations and always ready to reach out a hand to another person in need. As a fellow musician, I know you have a long and wonderful career--we crossed paths whenever the Chambers Brothers were playing the same towns as the Dregs-- doing the thing you love, and as a family man, you shared with me how much you cared about taking care of your kith and kin, and being supportive. You took a tough road, and did it with dignity, helping others along the way. I know that your loved ones will all mis you, the music world will shake it's head and say "There wasn't anyone quite like him!" nd you're hopefully up there in heaven, playing some witty solos, smiling, while Keith Moon holds down the back-beat, John Entwhistle frowns at you for going one measure too long, and Les Paul offers you a glass of whiskey, to which you politely reply--"No thanks, Les--I thunk I've had enough." Rock on, brother.
Your pal, Stephen "Doc" Patt
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Sue Hugenberger posted a condolence
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Cheryl, I am so sad for you and "T"s family as you try to make sense of a life gone too soon. With sympathy, Sue
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Peter Downing posted a condolence
Friday, October 15, 2010
We played tennis, talked music and had a lot of laughs on the road to recovery. I hope you found peace brother. You were a monster, left a mark and will be missed.
Peace - P.
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Oscar Salas posted a condolence
Friday, October 15, 2010
My deepest condolences to T 's family.
Will always remember the time we spent on this plane , the laughter, the music.
Will miss you..Thanks for the memories.
Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they have shared and the love they
brought into our lives.
S
Steve Elam posted a condolence
Friday, October 15, 2010
I got to know my freind T as apart of the Mario's group in Santa Monica. I will always have great memories of my freind ... great sense of humor and very caring person ...thanks for being my freind ...I'll miss you... thank you ... Laker Steve
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Jimmi Mayweather posted a condolence
Thursday, October 14, 2010
A great musician and a greater friend !
J
Joel McNeely posted a condolence
Thursday, October 14, 2010
To all of T's loved ones, my family and I send our deepest sympathies. I met T when I was 15 at Interlochen. He was 2 years older and had come back from Miami for the summer to play gigs. He was the reason I went to Miami for college. I looked up to him like an older brother and he was my hero.
He had a huge heart and a joyous wit. He turned my name (Joel) into a nickname, Gel, then into Jello Head, then into Jello Head Brand Pudding. Then simply, Pudding. That stuck with me all through college.
We played so many gigs together from the time I was 16. Flute and piano duets at a swanky Lake Michigan Resort, the Homestead, The Dave Sporny Big Band, Newt and the Salamanders, Blues at the Sawmill, Cumbia gigs in Miami and on and on. He was such a gifted and natural musician.
He was loved by all. He will be deeply missed.
Joel McNeely
Los Angeles
S
Scott posted a condolence
Thursday, October 14, 2010
I thoroughly enjoyed your music as well as the one time I got to meet you. You were so easy to talk to. Thank you for giving me great memories. You will be missed.
J
James Norris posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
My Heart goes out T's family at this time. He subbed for a friend of mine Larry Novak when Larry couldn't make a gig with the Bstreet Bombers so I got to work briefly with him. He was a great musician and a wity person and he will be missed by all.
J
John P Tomaselli posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Music world has lost another Great.
I play Bass for The B Street Bombers a band based in Lawrence,Ma. We where very fortunate to play with T. on several occasions.
He played some fill in dates with us for at The time New Keyboard player Larry Novak.
Larry was a student of T.,s and could not do some dates with us and said He could get His Teacher to fill in for Him.
When I asked who that may be Larry Responded T. Lavitz.
I said as in Dixie Dregs?
Yup same one.
Well I was thrilled.
T. played with us seamlessly without ever hearing us play.
Watching him Playing next to me I got a birds eye view of His playing style.
This was an experience I will never forget.
Not only one of the best Keyboard players anywhere T. was a Great Guy.
He had a great sense of humor and was a pleasure to be around.
He will be missed.
John Tomaselli
www.bstreet.info
D
David Powell posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
I knew T while he was in Atlanta. He was a great guy. He always took time for me when I came over to visit. Through him I meet some wonder people and excellent musicians.He will be missed.
David "Cousin Dave" Powell
H
Holly Bussard Meyers posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
I knew T back in the late 70's. He was such a nice guy and played so beautifully. He will be missed.
r
roger scoggins posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
my heart goes out to family and friends.
D
Donna and Tony Pagano posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Although we've only known you for just a short while, you certainly touched our hearts. We will sadly miss you and never forget you. Keep on playin' T.
Edward V. Sullivan
Funeral Home
43 Winn Street
Burlington, MA 01803
Ph: (781) 272-0050
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