Cleta Schermerhorn

I literally cannot remember my musical life without Mrs. S (as we so lovingly called her) in it. She instilled a love of vocal music in me that persists to this day as I continue to sing choral music. She was my piano and voice teacher, as well as my beloved choir director as I progressed through the choirs at St. John's. Before me, she had taught vocal lessons to my mother, even up to right before Mom went to be with the Lord. Cleta's impact cannot be underestimated and the love of music and...

Linda, So sorry to read of your grandmother's passing. I know how special she was to you. She certainly lived a very full and rewarding long life. She was an incredible woman. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

I sincerely wish I had known that Mrs. Schermerhorn was still alive until recently. When I think back to my Amherst Junior High School days- the only person I truly remember, the only one who impacted me as a human being was Mrs. Schermerhorn. I had her for chorus and music in 7th and 8th grades. I also took a few voice lessons from her, but I was too shy to belt out a tune from the diaphragm as she encouraged me to do. Still, I didn't stop those lessons feeling bad about myself, which I...

What a wonderful life they had! In 1952 we both came to Amherst Central. I as a 7th grader and Cleta as my chorus teacher during 7th, 8th, and 9th grade. Several years later we met again when she and Marlo attended the luncheons with Lancaster retired teachers where by that time I was a member of the Lancaster Middle School retired faculty. My thoughts and prayers are with Marlo and family.

Sandee Wilcox Radtke

Our condolences on behalf of the Lancaster (NY) Town Band.

Richard Goss, music director

I was fortunate enough to be one of Cleta's piano students and she was kind enough to give me lessons free of charge after the death of my Dad when I was 9. As a Lancaster student I had Mr. S. in chows and even after many years he always remembered me and my brother Bill. What a beautiful life! My sincere condolences to the family. Linda Rosenthal Ludwig

The finest teacher I ever had. She instilled in me a love for music throughout my life. Have always remembered her and all of the songs she chose for our Amherst Jr. High choruses. I also took her music theory courses which where we wrote our own songs. She always had a sparkle in her eye. I've never forgotten her.