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Frank Louis Gagliardi

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University of Denver

Frank Gagliardi Obituary

Gagliardi, Frank Louis 79, quietly passed away on February 6, 2011, at the Silverado memory care residence in Plano, Texas. In the1960's, Frank had what he called "the best job in the world", percussionist for the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, where he played for star entertainers like Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Ten years later he joined the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he led the UNLV Jazz Ensemble to international stature, traveling world-wide, capturing multiple awards, and releasing 12 albums and CDs over his 22 year tenure. At a young age in Denver, Colorado, Frank's older brother, Vince, sparked his interest in music by taking him along on lessons and rehearsals where Vince played accordion. By 8, Frank began the drum lessons that led to his becoming, at 17, percussionist for the Denver Symphony and to earning his Master's degree in Music Education from Denver University where he started the Denver University Stage Band. Frank achieved such a distinguished Jazz program at University of Nevada at Las Vegas because of his passion for the music, and dedication to his students. He taught excellence by having high expectations while giving encouragement, love and support. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Charleen; daughter, Susan; son, Ric and his wife, Linda; grandson, Alessandro; brother, Vincent; and the many students for whom he was a profound influence. As he wished, Funeral Services will be held at Frank and Charleen's beloved retreat in Vida del Mar, Manzanillo, Mexico in April. Frank had a maxim first coined by Mae West: "You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough." And that he did.

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Published by Denver Post on Feb. 16, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Gagliardi

15 Entries

Steve Stampfli

February 27, 2024

I took private snare drum lessons from Frank (at a shop called 'Drumland' on either Pearl or Clarkson streets in Denver) starting around 1961 and until the late 1960s (I imagine when he left for Las Vegas). In my recollection, he played for both the Denver Symphony and also the Central City Opera. I think of him often, as being an important influence in my life.

Diane Duckworth

February 16, 2022

Susan, I loved when he came to our school to play. Would enjoy connecting. I am on FB, last name now is Varney. Be blessed.

Mitzie Vidger

June 3, 2011

He was a wonderful human being who touched my life intermittently. But the lessons he taught me during those brief encounters have stayed with me forever. He was and has always been the "Godfather". My condolences to Charleen, Ric and Susan.

Mitzie

Diane Varney

April 10, 2011

I remember Frank always coming to our schools and sharing his love and joy of music. Susan was my classmate. Many blessings to the family, and thank you for the memories of such a wonderful charitable man, who shared his love of music with children, and supported the schools of his daughter. I remember him well. Fondly, Diane Duckworth Varney.

April 8, 2011

Frank brought me some of my most cherished memories. He helped my career and and my direction. He was always looking out for me. An awesome man who has a special place in my heart. Wonderful educator, mentor, musician and friend. My condolences to Charlene and the family. I will truly miss him and will never forget him
Matt carr

April 7, 2011

Especially to Charleen and the family, I knew Frank as a wonderful mentor to students and felt so proud that he put the jazz program at the top of all lists of excellence. I am sorry I will miss his celebration on campus, but want you to know how highly I thought of him.

Condolences, Carol C. Harter, President Emerita, UNLV

dave banks

February 20, 2011

One of my true heroes of all time. He was a trusted friend. Respected Colleague. Mentor. When looking for a role model in Las Vegas, I couldn't have asked for anyone better. He was always honest, witty, and all class. What a fantastic educator, musician, band leader and human being. He was such an important person in my career. He helped me every step of the way. Frank was unselfish and genuinely cared about those around him. I will always remember Frank with much love, honor and respect. My condolences to the family during this difficult time.

Bill Wiseman

February 18, 2011

Frank was instrumental in bringing me to the Las Vegas area . In the 80's he brought me into the University where I was able to teach Jazz Guitar and other music classes while he helped me establish myself as a musician on the strip. He was an amazing person and wonderful musician who played with everyone. He has touched a special place in my life and helped form where I am today in los angeles as a session player , performer, teacher,composer in my musician life. He will be missed a lot by me and many others. :(

Frank Gagliardi

February 17, 2011

Frank and I shared something that can never be replaced or duplicated. We were both percussionists, both Italian and shared something else. My name is Frank Gagliardi MSgt USMC Ret. Marine Band. I will miss him...Semper Fi

Kenny Beard

February 17, 2011

Frank was one of my best friends. He was my percussion teacher, and I was his "student", even tho we were the same age. He was one of the biggest influences in my life. I would not have had the success in the music business, had it not been for him. He was always there for me. Both my wife, Louise and I send our heartfelt condolences to Charleen, Suz, Ric, Vince and family

Glenn Norton

February 17, 2011

My condolences to Charlene and all of Frank's family. Frank meant so much to all of us who were fortunate enough to play jazz with him at UNLV. He was a great leader and encouraged us all to be better musicians and better people. As far as college Jazz programs go, he put UNLV on the map. He will truly be missed. Thanks for the good times and the good tunes, Frank. Glenn Norton, UNLV Class of 1985.

David Salmon

February 17, 2011

Reading of Frank's death brought back fond memories of the time he spent training young percussionists. He was kind and generous with Las Vegas high school drummers like myself. I knew him from 1982-1986. I still remember the joke he told us of the Genie and the three men stranded on a desert Island. Very Funny! I just wanted to say thanks for a life well lived. My condolences to his famly.

Dave Swerer

February 16, 2011

Hello;

I was a student of Frank's and managed Drumland for Frank when he left Denver and went to LV. He was truly one of the finest people I knew and I miss him to this day. God's best to the rest of the Gagliardi's, Vince and Evelyn, whom I also miss much.

Sam Pergola

February 16, 2011

I'm thinking of all of you in our loss of Frank. He did a lot in shaping my life.

Braxton Pacatte

February 16, 2011

Frank was my private drum instructor from 1975-1976 while I was in high school, and my jazz and percussion instructor at UNLV from 1976-1978. He had what can only be called a life-long effect on me as a musician. I had the privelege of performing in the UNLV jazz bands and percussion ensemble under his direction with many very talented musicians. My time in those ensembles was instrumental in my learning enough about music to be a professional drummer throughout my adult life. Frank had a knack for geting his bands to perform at a level unobtainable by other college programs. I am deeply saddened to hear of his Alzheimer's and my sympathy goes out to his family not only because of his passing but for the gradual loss over time of your loved one that this disease puts you, his caregivers through. May God comfort you now and for all your days.

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