Murray VanNess

We were so saddend to hear of your father's passing. My brothers and I will remember his patient and encouraging way when we were in band back when. He radiated a love of music,as is seen through you, Allan and your son, following in his footsteps.Our condolences to you and the family. Jeanette Sargent-Hill

Allan and family, My brothers,family and I remember your dad for his patient way and influence that he had on our love of music. Each of us,was touched in band,Flute,guitar,(brothers) and I on the xylophone. What a wonderful man. Our condolences to your family. Jeanette Sargent Hill

To Lynn, Alan and Anne
Sending deepest sympathy on your loss. Murray was an institution..his love for music was contagious....and he inspired so many students...giving them the life long gift of music. Magician, Ham Radio Operator ...founder of "The Faculty" he will be missed. A wonderful man who leaves a legacy of love, laughter and a song in the hearts of many.

May the many cherished memories you have of your father sustain you through this time. I always enjoyed seeing your dad walking in the village of Red Hook with his companion. He was so important to Red Hook's music system you carried his legacy for many years. Wishing the family peace.

OMG! Murray was such an inspiration to me ....he TRULY believed in my music talents and gave me so much confidence as a young vocalist and lady! He was a GEM! God Bless you Murray! I will NEVER forget you! Happy to have known you!

Lynn and Alan & families --
As our wonderful neighbor and brilliant music teacher, many of my warmest memories involve your family, especially "Mr. VanNess". He was a class act whose kindness, grace, humor, and quiet dignity inspired his students to be better musicians and better people. Your slide show made me smile and reminded me of the profound impact your father had on the lives of so many of us who found joyous sanctuary in the Red Hook High School Music room as teenagers and those...

Alan & Lynn, I was so sorry to hear the news about your dad. He had a huge impact on my life, I truly appreciate everything he did for me as a student and have fond memories of the many years we played together beginning when I was 16. He was a unique individual and will be missed.

Murray was a wonderful man and terrific teacher. We are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I knew him has "Mr. Van Ness" and he instructed me for years of private lessons and then pulled me to the high school band early. And then he patiently helped me as an atonal drummer struggling through his Music Theory class. He even placed me in my first gigs and they even paid well! Definitely one of the bright lights in the Red Hook school system. Thank you Mr VanNess!