John Jerome Slate

It's funny that I think about Mr. Slate so often. And now that I'm older I realized he was an extremely pivotal and impactful person in my life both in my sense of humor and my love of music. I don't think he would've ever said that he was close to me except that I was a bass guitarist in middle school jazz - but I felt very close to him and obviously was enamored of his intelligence and talent. Most recently, I was talking about the fact that he gave me one of my first jazz albums and I...

I work with my good friend and colleague Elizabeth and met John on two occasions during departmental social functions. On our brief conversations, I was able to note John's warm heart and interest on the well being of others. It was not difficult to ascertain that my brief observations were accurate as I listened to the testimonials spoken by those who knew him well during the beautiful funeral service. I firmly believe, his untimely passing is a loss not only to his family but also to...

I played in the Ithaca Ageless Jazz Band with John. I couldn't swing to save my life, and eventually started private lessons with John. I had hoped to have a few lessons on the band's charts, to learn how to swing so i would blend in. My first lesson went like this:

me: (verbal bleat bleat bleat)
JS: "Sit down."
me: (bleat bleat bleat)
JS: "Shut up."
me: (bleat bleat bleat)
JS: "Shut up."
me: (bleat bleat bleat)
JS: "Shut up. Play a C...

Mr. Slate was an amazing musician! I am so sorry for your loss. He played at our wedding reception 3 years ago. We would go back to Charleston just to listen to him play every year. I always tell everyone that he is my favorite saxophonist.

John Slate was a tremendous influence to me both musically and personally. I have laughed with my sister, Cathy, about my fond memories of Mr. Slate. I think about him often and even had a ipod playlist "John Slate" with songs that he had burned in my mind. These songs spoke to me just in the same way that I knew that Mr. Slate felt the music and the way he imparted it to me. My bass is still in my hands everyday to this day as a result of John Slate and always will be. I'm embarrassed to...

Music saves lives, and if it weren't for John Slate I might well have not survived to write this. He helped me navigate early adulthood with patience, courage, fortitude, and most of all music.

Elizabeth, my thoughts and prayers are with you and both families.

Truly saddened to hear of his passing. It's hard to think back about the man without getting a smile on your face. Jokes so awful they were good; I remember several to this day. And always the patience to put up with us students without a shred of musical talent.
My condolences to Liz and the entire family. His gift will continue on in others.

My deepest condolences. Mr. Slate was a great inspiration to me and will always remain so. As I have had the opportunity to work with kids in the arts, I remember and hold myself to his standards, his passion,and his respect for all ages and abilities. He will be missed.

Liz, My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. J Slate was a great musician and teacher to me for many years. My memories of him will always be those times that we played jazz together and laughed often. Sincerely, Vince Trocheck