Bridgeport, Connecticut
FINEGAN William J. "Bill"Finegan, an American Jazz band leader, pianist, arranger, and composer of Monroe, passed away Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at Bridgeport Hospital. Born in Newark, N.J., Finegan grew up in a household full of piano players. He spent time studying at the Paris Conservatory....
Read MoreDear Family:
Our sincere condolences to your family from the Glenn Miller Archive, American Music Research Center at the University of Colorado. Bill's musical legacy will be remembered by all who cherish this unique American musical heritage.
Alan Cass
June 17, 2008 | Boulder, CO
I have great memories of the family. They were very down to earth. They were like a 2nd family to me. My deepest sympath to Jamie and Helen.
SCOTT JISONNA
June 10, 2008 | STRATFORD, CT
Here is a pioneer whose work largely has been overlooked by jazz fans, I suppose because he was not averse to seeking popularity. I think it could be said Bill Finegan was more responsible for Miller's lush romantic sound than Jerry Gray. By the time he was writing for Dorsey though in the late '40s his work was distinct and original. In 1952, the Sauter-Finegan band was so startling with innovation that many of us struggled with how to hear it. Alas, they tried too many novelty approaches. I...
Richard Carlson
June 08, 2008 | Athens, OH
My condolences to Helen and James. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mar-Jean Zamperini
June 07, 2008 | Pittsburgh, PA
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I fondly remember Bill and Rosemary from UB. I especially remember the Sauter-Finegan reunion concert that was held at the University. Bill was amazing. Rosemary was wonder voice teach and an amazing person.
My their memory be eternal.
Georgette Geotsi
June 06, 2008 | Black Rock, CT
My condolences to the family. About 20 years ago I called him to arrange some lessons on Jazz Harmony. He said "Naw, I'll just explain it over the phone". And he did, all in a two hour phone call.
Joe Carter
June 05, 2008 | Trumbull, CT
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
lorraine kalman
June 05, 2008 | Naugatuck
Bill was a genius. It was amazing that his intensity and integrity concerning music were still present up to the end.
Rest In Peace,
Phil Schaap
Phil Schaap
June 05, 2008 | New York, NY
Sincerest condolences. I was priviledged to take voice lessons from Rosemary back in the '70's in Bridgeport (across from Treeland)when I was a teen. Wonderful memories from wonderful, kind people. I did sing Big Band locally and we did play "Little Brown Jug".
I do remember you, James and Helen. I'm sure no one will ever forget your Dad and your Mom.
Diane (Miller) Kissel
Diane Kissel
June 05, 2008 | Orange, CT
