Richard T. Genovese, Sr.

Richard Theodore Genovese, Sr. passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2014 at his residence in Hatfield, PA. He was 78. Rich graduated from Southern High School in 1954 and received his diploma from the Curtis Institute of Music in 1957. Rich "Basketball" Genovese was an accomplished musician and performer on the tenor and bass trombone, as well as the tuba. He performed at multiple venues and theaters throughout Philadelphia, Atlantic City and New York. His career includes performances with Classical artists-Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo and Andrea Bocelli--as well as performances, recordings and tours with many Pop, R&B and Motown artists. Some of these artists include Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Harry Connick, Jr., Michael Buble′, The Temptations, Earth, Wind and Fire, Teddy Prendergast and Marvin Gaye, among many others. He recorded with Gamble-Huff-Bell Music at Philadelphia International Records and Sigma Sound Studio. In addition to his performance and recording work, Rich taught trombone, directed ensembles, and conducted concert band at various schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for over 40 years. Among them is Bishop Kenrick High School, where he taught for over twenty years. Starting in the 1960's, he also taught at the University of the Arts, later becoming Adjunct Assistant Professor, until his retirement in 2013. Rich has earned 9 Gold Records for his work with The Stylistics, MFSB, The Spinners and The O'Jays. Additionally, he was recognized in 2010 by Pennsylvania Governor Edward Rendell for outstanding contributions in music performance, the recording industry and in education. In 2013, the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame recognized Rich's contribution in bringing international renown to the "Philly Sound."As an active member and former Vice-President of the Philadelphia Local 77, former Vice-President of the Atlantic City Local 661708, and former Member-at-Large for the Theater Musicians Association, Rich was engaged in advocating for musicians' rights and preserving the integrity of the profession.Born in South Philadelphia, PA on April 6, 1936, he was a son of the late John A. and Elena (D'Eramo) Genovese. Surviving is his loving family including his wife of 27 years, Antionette T. "Toni" (DeLuca) Genovese; a son, Richard T. Genovese, Jr. of Coatesville, PA; two daughters, Joan D. Genovese of Hatfield, PA and Elena Kriebel and her husband, Steve, of Gilbertsville, PA ; a grandson, Christian Sanfelice; three brothers: Larry Genovese and his wife, Elaine, of Douglassville, PA, Ed Genovese and Art Genovese, both of Cherry Hill, NJ; a sister, Mary Ann Brigandi of Philadelphia, PA; and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by 4 brothers: John, Robert, Alfred & Anthony Genovese.Rich's Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Worship Site, 502 Ford St., Bridgeport, PA 19405 on Tuesday, July 29, 2014 at 10:00 am. The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday from 8:30 to 9:30 am, at The Bacchi Funeral Home and Crematory, Ltd., 805 DeKalb St. (Rt. 202), Bridgeport, PA. Interment will be in SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Marple Twp., PA.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rich's memory to the Curtis institute of Music, Attn: Anthony Brown, 1726 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA 19103.Arrangements are by The Bacchi Funeral Home and Crematory, Ltd., Bridgeport, PA. www.bacchifuneralhome.com