Ravosa, Carmino C.

Carmino Ravosa, one of the most popular songwriters for children in the nation and its foremost musical composer on historical subjects over the past five decades, died on July 19th in White Plains, NY. He was 85 years of age.

Ravosa was born in Springfield, MA in 1930. After serving in the United States Army as a corporal in the U.S. Army Band, he graduated from the Hartt School of Music in Hartford, CT—where he met his wife of almost 60 years, Claire Colby—and received a master's degree and an advanced degree from Columbia University.

He was a music teacher at the Fox Meadow Elementary School in Scarsdale, NY from 1965 through 1978; he was a Faculty Fellow and the Composer-In-Residence at The Dalton School in New York City from 1978 through 1999; and he was the Composer-In-Residence for Edison Schools Inc. (the largest private manager of charter schools in the nation) in New York City from 1999 to 2003. At both The Dalton School and Edison Schools, Ravosa was granted broad latitude and flexibility to creatively use the art and love of music to drive knowledge and learning amongst the students. He was remembered decades later by many of the students that he inspired, many of whom went on to admirable musical or entertainment careers and stayed in touch with him over the years.

Ravosa was a substantial contributing composer and editor for Silver Burdett & Ginn's popular music textbook series, "The Music Connection" and "World of Music", and the composer of the theme musicals in the two series that were used extensively in children's classrooms throughout the nation. He was a songwriter for CBS's "Captain Kangaroo" and "Romper Room", PBS's "Shining Time Station" and PBS's publication, "Sesame Street Magazine".

At the invitation of President and Mrs. Jimmy Carter, Ravosa gave a solo command performance of his musical "Ghosts in the White House" in the East Room of the White House in 1978 for over 600 Halloween guests. He also performed selections from his musicals "Shh! We're Writing the Constitution" and "From George to George" at the 1989 inauguration of President George H. W. Bush. Ravosa again performed his musical "From George to George" at the Smithsonian National Museum during the 2001 inauguration of George W. Bush. Ravosa was honored as 2009 Alumnus of the Year by the Hartt School of Music, and was honored in 2013 at the Briarcliff Manor-Scarborough Historical Society.

Ravosa's musical "Scarecrow" (based upon Nathanial Hawthorne's work, "Feathertop") won four major awards in 1975 at the International Light Opera Festival in Waterford, Ireland, and his musical "Seneca Falls" was performed in 1976 at Carnegie Hall in New York City for the Women's Hall of Fame (where he served on the initiation board). He also performed at the Gala Reopening Celebration for the Ellis Island Immigration Museum in New York City in 2001 (with Hume Croyn, Art Bushwald and Leslie Uggams).

Ravosa was a beloved resident of Briarcliff Manor Village, NY, where he served for many years on the Board of Trustees of the Briarcliff Manor-Scarborough Historical Society. He loved the Village and wrote extensively about its rich and significant history. Ravosa also performed his musical works at numerous historic landmarks, including the Thomas Paine Museum in New Rochelle, NY (where he served on the board of directors for several years), Washington's Headquarters in Newburgh, NY, Washington's Farewell site at Fraunces Tavern in New York City, Elijah Miller House in White Plains, NY, Washington Irving's "Sunnyside" home in Irvington, NY, John Adam's Historic House in Quincy, MA (with Chairperson, David McCullough), the Paul Revere House in Boston, MA, Buchman Tavern in Lexington, MA, and Knapp's Tavern in Greenwich, CT.

He is survived by his loving wife Claire Ravosa, his daughter Carine and her husband Arnold Feist, his daughter Gina Ravosa, his son Dean Ravosa and his wife Ann, his eight grandchildren Nathan, Elissa, Michael, Marielle, Erinn, Colby, Parker and Skylar; and his sister Corena Ravosa.

Visiting hours will be on Thursday, July 23rd from 2pm-4pm and 7pm-9pm at Beecher Flooks Funeral Home, 418 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY. A Memorial Service honoring Ravosa's life will be held on Saturday, August 8th at 11am at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 197 Manville Road, Pleasantville, NY.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Journal News on Jul. 21, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Carmino Ravosa

Sponsored by His Loving Family.

43 Entries

Carole Calen

July 15, 2021

To the Fiest Family,

Please know that I think of Carmino and all of YOU all the time! What Carmino did for my students will always be remembered!

How Carmino would visit my classroom at Todd Elementary School and sing to dozens of students in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade, teaching them all, the power of music and improvisation through the gift of SONG! What priceless memories I certainly have, and can imagine the many students which he mentored, have as well.

With All Good Wishes,
Carole Calen

Carole Calen

July 15, 2021

I will ALWAYS remember all the wonderful times that Carmino sang to my many students at the Todd Elementary School, in Briarcliff Manor! Carmino's laughter and vibrancy continues to be all around us! What a true Honor it was to have him celebrate HISTORY through the gift of SONG! Carmino's many talents had my many students laughing, singing, acting, demonstrating improvisation, and so very much MORE! Please know how deeply Carmino is missed yet his legacy continues to inspire with wonder and AWE!

Dylan Goldman

April 10, 2021

He was my mentor at The Dalton School when I was in elementary school. My memories of his kindness, talent and love for children are as strong now as they were then. Such an incredible man.

February 10, 2021

We did Army basic training at Camp Chaffee Ark. in 1951.

Carrie Feiner

July 15, 2020

I will always remember how Carmino inspired me to love music. He encouraged me to play piano for various classes at Fox Meadow School when I was a child and made me feel so special. I still remember the day he came over to me when I was 7 years old & told me to go to Juilliard -- He gave me the confidence to follow that dream. HIs music, dynamite personality and piano playing was incredible-- Carmino was one of the biggest influences in my life and I will always treasure the gift of music which he passed on to me.

Carole Calen

July 15, 2019

To My Dear Friend, CarminoRavosa and his family: Clair, and the Feist Family~
Please know how much I miss Carmino. I am so very thankful that I was able to spend and enjoy so many fun times together! In my classroom, his songs of History came alive to my students. I have never, ever seen kids this enthusiastic and excited. It was with Carmino's incredible Talent, love of History, Music, and Teaching. Please know I think of all of you often.

I hope all is well on your end. I am retired and reside in Dutchess County in a small town known as Red Hook, NY. The town is like a scene out of an Andy Griffith show, where all is calm, good, and happy! My family is very well. ~My Kids are all grown up. My son will graduate from Red Hook HS next year and is an extremely talented percussionist. (drummer specifically). He plays in front of live audiences all the time. My daughter will enter her 3rd year of college at Marist College and is studying Psychology.
Love to hear back from you. [email protected]
Please know how often Carmino and all of you are in my thoughts.

With Warmest Wishes~
Carole Calen and family

Chuck Ruddy

May 6, 2019

So many Ravosa tunes one cannot forget. What a gift to be able to create so many for so many.

I was fortunate to be one of his Fox Meadow students. My kids know that there's one amendment to the US Constitution they will always get right: the 19th Amendment ain't it grand. Because I sing it for them and now they sing it. A little Carmino Ravosa passed down from generation to generation.

Mr. Ravosa was as happy and kind of an individual as I've known. Any teacher who can put a smile on a young student's face just because of their anticipation of going to [music] class has achieved something only special few have been able to do.

So many great memories from a warm, giving man. Miss him, but he's with us in more than memory. He's with us in easily recalled, meaningful songs.

Michael McClish

January 27, 2018

I was a teacher assistant from 79-80 at Dalton Schools in NYC when Carmino was there. He was wonderful, and the kids LOVED him, he was truly the pied Piper of Manhattan. Wonderful man and legacy. I used to have two of albums, and wish I still did.....what a wonderful mark you have left on the world, Carmino. And I will never forget your sage words: "Birds eat 'n' eat 'n' eat!" Michael McClish, Los Angeles (I sang in NCY 78-80, and eventually taught 30 years while still singing professionally in LA.)

August 13, 2015

Only just learned of his passing. I never actually met Carmino Ravosa, but I sure knew his name and his work. I attended Heathcote in the 70s and I think his work may be the soundtrack to my entire childhood. How lucky we were to have been elementary school students in Scarsdale during the Carmino Ravosa years. I can still remember seeing his name and singing those lyrics off those mimeographed copies with the purple ink. I saw someone else mention "Glorious Morning" and my memories just flooded with songs and lyrics - "Let it Begin Here", "I'm Hancock, I'm Adams" (also mentioned by another "fan"), "Two Sides to a Wall", and the list goes on. My heart goes out to his family. The world has lost a true treasure.

Cathy Fitzhugh

August 11, 2015

That man clarified for me my love of music before I even knew that I loved music. His classes were a favorite part of elementary school.

Shari Loveman Goldberg

August 10, 2015

Dear Claire and Family~
I was so sadenned to read of Carmino's passing in the NYTimes recently. He was such a vibrant part of my days at Dalton when we worked on plays together throughout the 1980s. I taught a 1st/2nd grade class (House 56)and almost every year Carmino created an amazing musical to coincide with some part of the curriculum my students were studying. He brought tremendous joy to each day as we sat by the piano singing the magical music he created for the students. He had tremendous talent and incredible passion for his gift! I still remember many of the songs and stories he wrote. I have VHS tapes of each one! Carmino will forever remain in my heart as a true light and inspiration in my life. He touched so many students and teachers and I feel blessed to have known him. My heart goes out to you and your family and his many adoring fans. May his memory live on in all of us like a beautiful song that never fades. With Sincere condolences and prayers,
Shari Loveman Goldberg

Richard S. Ravosa, Esq.

August 4, 2015

My sincerest condolences to all Sonny's family. I remember him playing piano and singing at the Bar Association on the weekends and he always drew a crowd that enjoyed his music.

Joan McCann

August 1, 2015

Upon arriving at Fox Meadow many years ago,I heard a whistler from down the corridor. The tune was captivating as was the teacher/musician I was about to meet. Yes,Carmino was and will forever be the magical voice of children's musical theater. Joan McCann

Wilma Messenger

July 29, 2015

The world of music education has lost a great man. Carmino's enthusiasm, talent, and passion never ceased to bring out the best in my music students. Even the most timid singer would leap to his feet to sing when Carmino led a song. He taught kids American history and geography through song. He taught kids to appreciate their town's history through his delightful and singable songs about his beloved Briarcliff Manor. He composed our school song "We are one big Todd School family." Carmino, you will forever be a member of our Todd School family. We miss you.

July 27, 2015

[Dear Ms. Gayle Volpicelli Banks, please contact me again and this time kindly leave your email address. I was unable to reply. All best wishes, Olivia Mattis]

Virginia McGinnis (Maddox)

July 27, 2015

It is with great sadness that I learned of my good friend Carmino's passing. I have so many memories of our working together at Fox Meadow. He and I carpooled to work together when I lived in Ossining. He would tell me
about all the new songs that were swirling around in his most creative head. I loved the way he worked with the children making each child feel special and important. He made us all
feel special with his music and his constant teasing. Even my daughter Michelle can remember songs that she learned just from my singing them at home. He will most certainly be missed!

Ethel Huttar

July 27, 2015

Dear Ravosa Family,
You all have been such a meaningful part of our lives for almost fifty years. Our hearts go out to you--Claire, Carine and Arnie, Gina, Dean and Ann, and all the younger generation. And since Carmino was the senior among his siblings, we were privileged to know them all too--Tony, Queenie, and Junior.
Carmino was one of a kind. As a colleague, if you were fortunate enough to have a piano in your classroom, you never knew when a "traveling musician" would appear and surprise your class with a spontaneous song or two, and then leave your classroom in a stir of kids' great happiness. And how can we ever forget the countless shows he created and engaged classroom children in as performers--as well as many other shows for adult audiences.
He was boundless in his energy and enthusiasm--truly a Mr. Music. He has left us with many songs by which to remember him. But most of all he left us with a song in our hearts, which are full of both love and tears for his life of commitment to many students, friends, and colleagues. He will be missed. May he rest in peace.

Nancy Friedman

July 27, 2015

I went to Fox Meadow in the mid-70's and still remember every word to every song Mr. Ravosa wrote. I played the "Tour Guide" in the White House is Haunted in 4th (5th?) grade, and remember when Mr. Ravosa was invited to the White House to play some of his songs for the President. I've never forgotten him, or forgotten how proud I was to have had a Mr. Ravosa song of my own to sing. I'm sorry for your loss, but hope it helps to hear how many people's lives he touched with his music and kindness.

Olivia Mattis

July 26, 2015

What a joy it is to read through these tributes and reminisce about my cherished Fox Meadow music teacher! I am also delighted to see an entry from Miss Volpicelli, my wonderful 3rd grade teacher! It's been a lifetime since I lived in Scarsdale, but some people leave an indelible mark.

Paul Schwarz

July 26, 2015

In my first years in Scarsdale, in the 1970's, I was at the Quaker Ridge School, then a K-8 building, where there was much healthy cooperation and often joint projects between elementary and middle-school faculties. I had the delightful opportunity to work with the third graders and their teachers, with Carmino's participation, on the production of a couple of his original shows.

His songs and his shows had a magical quality of sounding totally professional and sophisticated, worthy of Broadway, yet were eminently accessible and singable for children. His was a rare talent.

He was lost to Scarsdale, of course, and that was Dalton's gain. A public school district could not bring itself to create a position such as "Composer in Residence." When we did our Quaker Ridge productions, he was with us on his free periods at the other elementary school, where he carried a full schedule of music classes.

And so he went to Dalton, and to many other places, including the White House, and we followed his career for a time, with sadness for us, but joy for him.

I was never in touch with Carmino after that, but I never forgot. I took out my old copy of "Glorious Morning" today, put it on the piano, and played the score. "I'm Hancock. I'm Adams..

Oh, what a glorious career it was. Oh what a glorious individual and artist.

Edward/Eddie Sullivan

July 23, 2015

I have fond memories of meeting Carmino, Tony and his lovely wife at the Ravosa family home on Colchester Street in Springfield. A real talented family and we shall think of them often with admiration, love and respect.The greatness of any man can most nearly always be measured by his willingness to be kind and helpful to others. Eddie Sullivan

Amy Ogden

July 23, 2015

When I was still a Music Ed major, I worked with Carmino during one January term. He was a great and generous inspiration to me, and while I ended up not teaching music, I used his short musicals set to fairy tales when I taught grades1&2 in Ossining. Our lives crossed an number of times through the years, including at a garden tour in Briarcliff Manor where we reminisced about people we knew through Fox Meadow School, where I ended up teaching for over 30 years after he left.
What a tribute to read the notes in this guest book from former Fox Meadow students! With his talents he encouraged students to learn through music integrated into the curriculum. He will live on through his compositions and through the impact he had on all the students lucky enough to have learned from him!

John and Tove Ravosa

July 23, 2015

Claire,
The last time I saw my cousin Sonny was at a Dalton Play in 1997. My neighbors daughter was in that play and asked me If I knew him since we had the same last name. What a supprise, after all those years
Our most Sincere Condolences to you and your family.
I know he will be missed by all.
John Ravosa

Gayle Volpicelli Banks

July 23, 2015

I taught third and fourth grades at Fox Meadow and have fond memories of Carmino and his fifth grade plays. He was a very special talent and my students were fortunate to have him as their music teacher. My sympathies and prayers go out to his family.

July 23, 2015

Dear Claire,
I was deeply saddened when I heard the news of Carmino's passing from a former student; a student who is one of hundreds of Dalton kids who knew the joy of working with such a caring and loving music teacher. He was a dear man, and I will always think of him with great affection.
My hugs to you and your family,
Bob Bush

July 23, 2015

Claireand family,So sorry to hear of Sonny'death. I think Sonny. ,Tony and my Carmen will have to start a band in heaven .It seemed impossible that Sonny died 6 days before Carmen's 24 th anniversary. Stay strong and let your family and friends help you walk this road of grieving . Rita Ravosa and family

July 22, 2015

Condolences to the Ravosa family. May the love of family and friends sustain you during this most difficult time.
Psalms 146:9

Jackie Haddock

July 22, 2015

Our condolences to Corrine and family. Lou & Jackie Haddock

Mitch Ogulewicz

July 22, 2015

My sincerest condolences to the Ravosa Family. I had the pleasure of knowing Mr.Ravosa's brother Anthony, as well as his sister Connie. On a few occasions when he visited his family in Springfield, I was fortunate to have been in his company.

May he Rest In Peace, a truly remarkable man.

Ethan Bregman

July 22, 2015

Mr. Ravosa was a great inspiration to us all in elementary school. Beyond a love of music, he showed us that a group of kids, all on our own, with nothing more than our hard work, can come together to perform a beautiful and fun show we could all be proud of. It was a lesson both in teamwork, and more importantly, to not be daunted by the size of the task at hand.
Go Forth Unafraid, Mr. Ravosa.

Robert Ravosa

July 22, 2015

Uncle Sonny will live forever in his music and great contributions he made as a musician, educator, and friend to all who knew him. His name was synonymous with excellence when I was a student at Harrt, It was a pleasure to have known him.
Rob Ravosa

Rebecca Haidt

July 22, 2015

During confusing and difficult elementary school years, Mr. Ravosa's class at Fox Meadow was the bright spot of my day. He always had a smile and projected room-filling enthusiasm. He treated all of us as fully musical human beings capable of producing magic. My favorite memory: I was quite teased during elementary school and one day in music class the rest of the kids had decided to stop singing during a song, so that I'd be the only one singing. The intent was to embarrass me. They stopped, and I kept singing, and when I became aware that everyone had left my voice alone, I felt mortified and faltered--- until I saw Mr. Ravosa at the piano gazing earnestly at me, playing his heart out, the look on his face communicating urgently "keep singing! I'm right here with you and you are GREAT!" So I kept singing a little longer than I would have. I will always be grateful to him for being there for me at that moment. I also will always regret not having sung through to the end of the piece. I'd give a lot to go back and re-do that moment, and just belt my heart out, not giving a damn about anything but sharing Mr. Ravosa's infectious love for the music. It took me years to appreciate my voice and learn to love singing, but when I was able to reclaim my enjoyment of song it was because I remembered the lesson Carmino Ravosa taught me that day. I am so grateful for his example when I was a child. God bless his memory.

Carole Calen

July 22, 2015

Over the past 15 years, Carmino filled my classroom and life with music, dance, and drama while teaching my students history through music. Carmino was a mentor, teacher, talented songwriter and incredible musician, but most of all....a dear friend who I will always remember and keep dear to my heart. May he rest in peace and his legacy will continue with the songs he shared with me to pass on to my students. With sincerest love and gratitude...Carole Calen
Carole L. Calen

Gaia Tommasi

July 22, 2015

Carmino stayed true to his passion for music and history throughout the years, spreading his love and joy for life!

His contagious enthusiasm brought out the best in people.

He'll have paradise singing in no time!

Mr. Ravosa's encouragement as my music teacher at Fox Meadow, starting from 3rd grade, inspired me to continue singing to a professional level!

Thank you Carmino!

Love and prayers to your family.

July 21, 2015

I will never forget him! He inspired me and encouraged me to be a musician. I will never forget how excited I was when he told me in 2nd grade to play the piano for the older students at Fox Meadow School & encouraged me to audition for the Juilliard School. He leaves a lasting impression on everyone that ever knew him. He will never be forgotten

Lilly Hayslip

July 21, 2015

Mr. Ravosa was an amazing man who had a huge impact on my life. Thanks to his family for supporting him as he inspired us.
- "Helen Keller" in 'Seneca Falls' Fox Meadow Elementary School

Bonnie Preston

July 21, 2015

I had the great pleasure of being a student of Mr. Ravosa's at Columbus Avenue Elementary School in the early 1960's. I vividly recall his original musical productions and was privileged to participate in his production of "Heidi" as Fraulein Rottenmeier. 50+ years later I still remember the words to my solo! His influence on me is indelible. It was a privilege to be his student and I'm sure I'm not alone when I say I treasure my very fond memories of him. My sincere condolences to his family,

barbara fitzhugh

July 21, 2015

Many thanks to Mr. Ravosa for the wonderful experiences he gave to my children. I know that they got lots of confidence in themselves and learned how to work hard and yet have fun. Along with this, they learned how to cooperate and experienced being a part of a large, successful process. He gave them that wonderful gift!

July 21, 2015

Mr Ravosa ,
An extraordinary teacher and person.
He inspired me and countless others at Fox Meadow Elementary School.
We were all so fortunate to have him in our lives.
I will always remember him with his warm smile , passion for music and kindness above all.
Rest in Peace .
Warm Regards,
Wendy Rosenblum Aronsson

Brian Butler

July 21, 2015

Dean, I am very sorry for your loss. Red Sox Nation has lost one of its greatest members. Rest in peace.

Margo Precht Speciale

July 21, 2015

Mr. Ravosa was a wonderful music teacher and human being. He made a huge impact on my brother Andrew's life as well as my own. He will remain in my heart forever. RIP Mr. Ravosa.

Adam Froelich

July 21, 2015

I will never forget you Mr. Ravosa. You touched all of us at Fox Meadow. The Froelich family will remember you Always. RIP

Sarah Ricks

July 21, 2015

Mr. Ravosa was my inspirational music teacher when I was in elementary school. He teased me that I must be "a minister' daughter" because of my taste in music. 40+ years later, on a Facebook page called Carmino Ravosa Fan Club, other Fox Meadow alums and I cheerfully recalled lyrics from the musicals he composed for us, word-for-word. What a musician, what a teacher, what an inspiration.

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