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Philip Bodner Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Feb. 27 to Feb. 28, 2008.

BODNER--Philip, age 90, on February 24, 2008. Loving husband of Judith and the late Harriet. Devoted father of Mark and Beth, Neal and Pam. Adoring grandfather of Josh, Adam, Matthew, Justin, Danielle and Hannah. The musicians' musician, master of 12 woodwind instruments. Virtuoso to the stars including Sinatra, Fitzgerald, Torme, and many others. Prolific and sought-after NYC studio musician, jazz band leader, NARAS Musician of the Year awards recipient, record producer, composer, and publisher. His legacy lives on in thousands of recordings, movie soundtracks, and jingle advertisements. Service and interment Thursday, 1:30pm, Westchester Hills Cemetery.

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Recent Activity

February 20, 2025

Dennis C. Anderson posted to the memorial.

January 23, 2024

Philip Trapkin posted to the memorial.

February 20, 2023

Dennis C Anderson posted to the memorial.

14 Entries

Dennis C. Anderson

February 20, 2025

Phil was one of my heroes in the music business. We both played the same instruments but I was much younger when I first met him at a jingle date. Not only Phil but Romeo was with him. What a complete blast of gratitude I felt because I had listened to both of them on countless albums. I was going to be sitting 'next' to these giants in a recording studio. One of my many dreams had become fulfilled. Peace & love to you my dear Phil. You are always a shining star in my memory and life experience. Rest in Eternal Peace. My mother passed away in 2008 also, so I am well in tune with how precious they bother were and....continue to be.....Dennis C. Anderson

Philip Trapkin

January 23, 2024

My Dad, Lou Trapkin, and Phil were best buds way back when. I was named after Phil. My dad told me he turned Phil onto clarinet when he was "only" playing sax - back in the 30's I believe. The first clarinet I played was the one my Dad lent to Phil. I never met him after childhood, but have always been proud to be his namesake.

Dennis C Anderson

February 20, 2023

Phil---what can a fellow musician say about a great man of his stature and...a mensch. I was a 'kid' when I met dear Phil, although his reputation preceded him gladly. He always treated me with respect and encouragement. When we had the opportunty to work together it was a thrill beyond my expectations. Having seen Phil's name on so many record jackets I was in the company of royalty. I miss him still. My friend......PEACE
Dennis

Dennis Anderson

February 20, 2021

Phil always met me with a smile and a greeting; all with cool and calm assurance. I was fortunate, although I came into the business later, to work with him a lot, various gigs and then the after-gig at, in those days, The China Song on 54th & Broadway. I remember once warming up before a jingle date---from the door came his voice: "Hey, no jazz kid"---All meant with love. We shared a mutual and meaningful respect of one another. Rest In Peace my friend. My mother passed away the same year so 2008 was a tough year for many.

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Dennis Anderson

February 20, 2019

Phil was a grand hero of mine. His name was included on almost every liner note on any album I owned.
He and Romeo were the premiere doublers of the day when we first met. Phil was gracious, supportive and genuine.
He told me: "...Okay, we're going to be here for quite a while today...so, sit back and relax!" I was the least of relaxed sitting next to these giants of the music business. Phil was a master of all his instruments but he NEVER held his notoriety or reputation over anyone's head; as we were all youngins' breaking into a fiercely competitive business. Phil and I did a good amount of hanging out back in the day. "You don't need to be a hero...just perform on your instruments well...that's heroic and impressive enough..." Once at dinner at La Strada Phil left his platinum Powell flute under the chair---when he discovered it missing he bolted back to the restaurant but had to explain in detail about the flute; the case, color of the cover, size etc. We both suspected they might have recognized the case and decided to hold out on Phil...but he did walk back in the date, flute in hand. He was relieved.

Phil Bodner and Ella Fitzgerald

March 8, 2008

Tony Mottola, Jr.

March 6, 2008

My late father, guitarist Tony Mottola, worked often with Phil Bodner and I was fortunate to meet him many times when tagging along to work in NYC with my dad. He was a truly extraordinary musician and it was a joy to watch him play. I know that my father had the greatest respect for his exceptional talent. On behalf of my mother and three sisters I would like to offer our family's condolences to the Bodners.

Glen Estrin

March 3, 2008

Dear Mark, Neal and Families,

The music world has lost a giant, and you have lost a "bigger then life" Dad. You have my deepest condolences. We all can rejoice in Phil's magnificent life. He was such a wonderful man, and had the respect and admiration of all he crossed paths with.

With all my sympathy,
Glen Estrin

Jill Simon

February 29, 2008

Mark - I read about your dad in the New York Times and wanted to express my sincerest sympathy on your loss. I am certain that he was an incredible human being.
Jill Simon (Penny's sister)

Albert Regni

February 28, 2008

Please add my name to the long list of admirers of Phil Bodner. He was indeed the greatest of the great woodwind doubler's during the golden era of Studio Recordings, in New York City.
I was constantly in awe of his formidable musicianship,integrity, dignified manners and the aura of professionalism his presence always conveyed. It was a privilege to have worked with and benefited from his artistry.
Phil's passing has saddened us all but the joy and lessons that he has left us with, will remain a constant reminder of the highest standards of musicianship and human relations.

Mitchell Estrin

February 28, 2008

I am deeply saddened to learn of the great Mr. B's passing. He was a great inspiration to every musician blessed to have worked with him. I grew up listening to him and was lucky enough to have worked with him in the 80's. What a magnificent artist on so many instruments. In the words of my father, the late Harvey Estrin, Phil was "the greatest woodwind doubler in the world". He was one of a kind. My deepest sympathies to Mark and Neal.

Dennis C Anderson

February 28, 2008

To the Bodner Family:

Phil Bodner was the guy everyone raved about:"a gifted instrumentalist' and a gentleman of the highest caliber. When I was breaking into the recordng scene, Phil was the one who, without pretention, told me to "sit back, relax and play"---"That's all you have to do". He inspired, taught and encouraged me to believe in myself.
Phil had style, grace, complete ethical aplomb and above all, dignity. I will miss his smile and beautiful sound. May he rest in Peace.

Dennis Anderson

Penny Simon

February 27, 2008

As the daughter, also, of a woodwind virtuoso, I can confirm that your dad was, indeed, a "musician's musician". It was not only the brilliant technique and gorgeous tone he achieved from his clarinet. It was the outstanding musicianship that characterized his playing.

While your dad will live on in the hearts and souls of his beloved family, he will live on, for the rest of us, through his superb music making.

Ana Weiss

February 26, 2008

We are so sorry to hear of Phil's passing. He was a wonderful and talented gentleman. My husband Kraig and I have fond memories of him. We will especially treasure Thanksgiving 2007 as we were able to spend it alongside Phil and his lovely wife Judy. He will be missed.

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