Tony DeNicola

I used to be a busboy at Crecco´s restaurant in Trenton in the early 70´s. When Tony came in to eat the waitresses would whisper to me, "Do you know who that is?" I didn´t know but they would list his musical credits. He was a well known musician in the area. I met Buddy Rich a few times and whenever I mentioned Tony´s name Buddy would smile and tell me to say hello for him. Tony followed Buddy in the Harry James band. Years later Tony played my wedding and wouldn´t accept payment. Perhaps...

I used to be a busboy at Creccos restaurant in Trenton in the early 70´s. When Tony came in to eat the waitresses would whisper to me, "Do you know who that is?" I didn´t know but they would list his musical credits. He was a well known musician in the area. I met Buddy Rich a few times and whenever I mentioned Tony´s name Buddy would smile and tell me to say hello for him. Tony followed Buddy in the Harry James band. Years later Tony played my wedding and wouldn´t accept payment. Perhaps...

Just a wonderful Teacher, friend and Human Being. Of course awesome Drummer . He touched so many lives in so many ways. I often stop at his gravesite to say hello my parents are buried near by. So miss him

What a wonderful soul and amazing teacher. I still regret being a stubborn teenager and not following his advice to be a jazz drummer. I remember him fondly.

Tony was a great teacher and a great person. Always encouraging and always with a smile on his face. I took lessons from him for several years in the late 1970s. Nothing but fond memories.

Wow! I have been SO out of touch. Tony was my teacher when I was a kid in the 70's. I use what he taught me every day. Something told me to look him up today. Thank you forever, Tony. XO Dale

Tony was a second father to me. I started to take lessons with him in the 60's. Drums were what I came to learn, but I ended up learning much more. To lesson to all forms of music, to appreciate what each had to offer. After years of playing around the country, I came back to Trenton and started to play bass. I was lucky enough to play with Tony in big and little bands for years and cherish those time for the rest of my life. GOD bless you Tony for the joy you brought to all who got to...

Tony was the closest thing to my own personal grandfather and mentor. Everytime I pick up the sticks and play before a hit, I'd ask Tony for a blessing and off we'd go. I've always been quite a scholar with words, but I honestly don't think words can describe the feelings and respect I had for him.

I'd always stop, pause and kick myself for not studying longer with Tony than I really did, but those lessons were valuable and just having him sit there and his presence alone made me...

I just heard of Tony's passing today because I live in Florida and do not receive Trenton papers. I am very saddened to hear of this as Tony is one of those people you think would be around forever. I studied with Tony for several years while in high school and then onto Trenton State. He inspired me to always do my best. I try to pass his love of percussion onto my students and to always use a calm and patient demeanor as he did. You will be greatly missed and my heart goes out to his...