Frank Sumares

Frank taught our class Jazz improvisation and piano at Chabot. He had a wicked sense of humor that would hit you off guard. That drew us all in. Although I never was able to improvise (still practicing), I did learn to voice chords and play piano so that I can accompany myself. Frank and I stayed in touch here and their. He sent me a good piano player, his student, for my 2001 Christmas party. Because of Frank's teaching, I was able to lead a successful (successful is defined as, WE MADE...

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.Hi lisa I hope this email will find you , I wanted to share the memory of your best father and may God repos his sole and be in paradise. God bless you all. With love from my heart ❤

Aloha Nui Loa form the bottom of my heat Frank. I was reviewing some old pics in my macbook and ran across a photo of you. I was honored to attend Chabot College in 1974-75. You were so inspiring to our jazz theory class. Before finding out about your passing From time to time I'd mention your name to my wife and how you had such a great sense of humor and a great music teacher. I left SF Bay Area in 1978 and returned to Hawaii. I have and still have a great respect for you and how you shared...

Dear Donna,
I learned of Frank's passing from going through some unread Chabot College Retirees newsletters. I am so very sad and sorry that you lost that wonderful man. He was indeed a jazz musician extraordinaire, and Allan and I were so blessed to have him play at our wedding party at the Taylor Family's home in Lafayette, back in September, 1994. Don't know if you remember, but you were there by his side.
Allan and Frank had offices across from one another in the...

Dear Donna and Lisa,

I just learned of Frank's passing. I'm so sorry for your loss. It's been many years since I've seen him;  but I can remember Frank as a complete jazz resource, a great hang and just plain funny as hell.
My earliest memory of Frank is from the late 1970's at LaHonda Music Camp teaching jazz theory. From there, I enrolled in various jazz ensembles at Cal State Hayward and Chabot College where Frank was the band leader.        He was a great director -...

A former teacher of mine at Chabot College and then at SJSU, Professor Frank Sumares was nothing short of amazing. A tremendous talent, the music he made will continue to resonate and impact hearts through the love of music. Peace and love.

Feliz Aniversario para voce com amor Francisco!

Happy Birthday to my Beloved Husband on this date 74 years ago you were born and I was fortunate to have been able to be a part of your magnificent life for the last 50 years. I love you with all my being and will forever. Please greet me on the other side someday. Your ever loving wife, Donna Lee

I posted an audio link of Frank conducting for Ledisi with Count Basie Orchestra.I did not know he had passed until I tried today.I admired him as a musician and a great person.I will always dig the memories of that time!Peace and Love