RIP: Paul Mastriani, 1935-2017

Jazz pianist Paul Mastriani died Saturday (February 4) at his Schenectady home. He was 81 years old.

A Schenectady native, Mastriani composed music for two revues at Schenectady Light Opera Company, “Who Said What to Who” in 1973 and “Don’t Just Sit There” in 1976. Two of his compositions, “Que Bassa (Time)” and “Gotta Take Time,” were performed in concert at Carnegie Hall by Tony Zano.

He opened for the Brecker Brothers at The Egg in Albany and had been featured featured at jazz festivals in Lake George, Clearwater and Sarasota. He played with numerous acclaimed musicians, including Ron Partch, Nick Brignola, Lew Petteys, Bob Massaro and many others.

He recorded with numerous jazz musicians, including Jan Eisen, Jody Shayne and Skip Parson’s Riverboat Jazz Band, as well as with his own trio.

He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Swingtime Magazine.

Calling hours will be 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday (February 8) at the Daly Funeral Home in Schenectady.

GO HERE to read Paul Mastriani’s obituary