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Emil Botti Obituary
Emil Botti, double bassist and string teacher, died Sunday, August 13th, at NYU Medical Center after a long battle with liver cancer. He was 65 years old.
Mr. Botti was a member of the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra in Greenwich, CT for over 30 years and became principal bass in 2011. He played internationally in the Caracas Philharmonic and was an active freelancer, performing with a number of groups, including the New York Pops, Springfield Symphony Orchestra in Springfield, MA, National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C., and the New York City and Kennedy Center opera orchestras.
In addition to performing, Mr. Botti mentored young bassists, maintaining a busy private teaching schedule and instructing students at the Children's Orchestra Society, where he also conducted.
Mr. Botti was born in Brooklyn, NY in 1951 and raised on Long Island in Lakeview, NY. His early studies were with Walter Botti (no relation), former bassist in the New York Philharmonic. He received his B.M. from The Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with Orin O'Brien (currently in the Philharmonic), and his M.M. from The Juilliard School, as a student of John Schaeffer (formerly in the Philharmonic).
Mr. Botti leaves behind a legacy of kindness and generosity which is valued and shared among a large community of devoted friends, students and musician colleagues.
A memorial service is being planned for the fall.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Emil Botti
john murray
August 12, 2020
when we were roommates on Riverside Drive (1978-1982) we'd work for an italian-american florist in Lawrence NY(that Emil knew) on the weekends for extra cash. We'd have to show up about 6am on a weekend morning. The owner's name was Chris and we worked mostly bar/bat mitzvahs(setting up trestles of foliage in the entrances of Jewish Temples etc.) and he always had a 3"wad of cash held together by a rubber band when he came to pay you at the end of the day. Just like a character out of Goodfellas. We were just a couple of guys in their 20's trying to make ends meet. Good times. Very good times.
Thanks for the opportunity to share good memories about a departed brother. sincerely- john murray
john murray
April 10, 2018
dear emil: as roommates from 1978 thru 1982, we shared alot of laughs & watched
many Yankee games together. i remember
your smile was a mile wide! love you
brother!
Carol Kushner
October 10, 2017
Dear Emil
I am shocked and deeply saddened by your passing. You were a kind and generous man. Always tried to do the best for everyone you knew.
I remember how you even worked at a Florist in the Five-Towns. You helped arrange the most beautiful floral arrangements for my wedding.
As a musician we go back to MSM always with a smile on your face.
I also remember the numerous times I saw you pass the parking lot at our Music School carrying your bass and we would always smile and wave to one another.
May your memory be a blessing in Heaven and Jerusalem.
michael tate
September 18, 2017
Emil,
May God bless you. My heart and soul are so sad right now.
I know the pain and suffering is over. Love you brother, we did some great gigs together. I am glad I could make you laugh a bit. RIP
jeremy robert althea eva cisneros
August 29, 2017
How we loved Emil .. as a teacher, as a person, as a conversationalist, with great stories and easy laughs, and how we will miss him. During his battle Emil spent every moment he could doing what he loved, teaching and performing music.
Pat Bottiglieri
August 24, 2017
Emil was a true friend, kind, talented, and a gentleman! He will be missed but never forgotten!
August 21, 2017
Emil inspired many young musicians. His guidance and kindness will be missed.
Jean Gress
August 20, 2017
So sorry to hear the sad news. Emil was a frequent sub with us in Springfield and I will miss his presence. He was a kind and decent man and a fine musician.
August 20, 2017
With Sincerest Sympathy
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra Family
W B
August 18, 2017
My condolences to the Botti family and friends. We take comfort in the scriptures and do as Paul said "Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart." Colossians 3:15
August 18, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
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