Richard Genovese, longtime musician

Richard T. Genovese Sr., 78, of Hatfield, a longtime musician here and elsewhere, died Thursday, July 24, of a brain disorder at his home.

Born in South Philadelphia, he graduated from Southern High School in 1954 and from the Curtis Institute of Music in 1957.

Mr. Genovese played three instruments: tenor trombone, bass trombone, and the tuba. He performed at venues and theaters in Philadelphia, casinos in Atlantic City, and on Broadway in New York.

At various times, he performed with vocalists Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, and Andrea Bocelli. He performed, recorded and toured with many pop, R&B, and Motown artists. His recording was done locally - with Gamble-Huff-Bell Music at Philadelphia International Records, and Sigma Sound Studios.

Mr. Genovese dedicated himself to teaching the next generation of musicians. He told his family: "We were given a talent and have to make sure the kids have a chance to develop theirs."

He taught trombone, directed ensembles, and conducted concert band at schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for 40 years. He taught at Bishop Kenrick High School in Norristown - now closed - for 20 years. And starting in the 1960s, he taught at the University of the Arts as an adjunct assistant professor until retiring in 2013.

Mr. Genovese earned nine Gold Records, meaning certified sales of 500,000 records, for his work with the Stylistics, the Spinners, and the O'Jays.

In 2010, he was recognized by then-Gov. Ed Rendell in a letter for outstanding contributions in music performance, the recording industry, and in education.

"He was speechless," said his wife, Toni DeLuca Genovese. "It was nice to have that recognition because he was so humble."

Last Oct. 24, his name was added to the bronze plaque placed by the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame outside the Academy of Music. The plaque honors an "elite group that made the Philly sound famous the world over."

Surviving, besides his wife are daughters Joan and Elena Genovese-Kriebel; a son, Richard Jr.; a grandson; three brothers; a sister; and many nephews and nieces. Four other brothers died earlier.

Funeral services are past.

Contributions may be made to the Curtis Institute of Music, Attn: Anthony J. Brown, 1726 Locust St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.