Valentine Charles Anzalone

It is with deepest regret that the family of Valentine Anzalone announces his passing on January 22, 2021 at St. Ann's Care Center, Webster, NY.

He was a graduate of Jamestown High School, SUNY Fredonia, and The Eastman School of Music where he earned his Performance Certificate and Masters Degree.

Valentine started his teaching career for the Red Jacket School District in the late 1950's, and then went on to teach many decades and retire from the Pittsford, NY School District. He might most be remembered for the music teaching series that he wrote, Breeze-Easy-Method. This series has been used throughout the United States and abroad for over 50 years. Many fellow musicians and students will remember him for his inspiring, cheerful, disposition and his skill at music arrangement.

During his retirement, he continued to play and to publish numerous music arrangements. He played with many jazz bands and big bands in the Greater Rochester Region. Valentine continued to encourage local musicians while being part of The Greater Rochester Jazz Festival. In addition, Valentine was a member of NY State Musicians Union.

Valentine is predeceased by his parents, Charles & Palma Anzalone; his first wife, Dr. Patricia Howie; son, Charlie Anzalone; and second wife, Judith Anzalone. Survivors include, daughters, Patsy Snyder of Ontario, NY, Valerie Niewieroski of Ft. Pierce, Fl, Tamara Bain (Raymond) of Rochester, NY; grandchildren, Michael (Madison) Bain, AJ Snyder, Matthew (Torrie) Bain, Sam Snyder; great-grand children, Makayla, Madelyn and Marley; cousin, Joe Anzalone and numerous friends, former students and members of our "Musical Community".

The Anzalone family will be holding a private service, and plan to have a celebration of his life at a later date. To share a memory of Valentine or send a condolence to the family visit www.anthonychapels.com.

The family asks that you take a moment to contemplate:

"Music is the great Uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Rochester Democrat And Chronicle from Jan. 22 to Jan. 24, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Valentine Anzalone

Sponsored by Anthony Funeral & Cremation Chapels - Brighton/Rochester Chapel.

6 Entries

Ian Walters

April 28, 2024

Mr. Anzalone was my teacher and band director for two years, I have fond memories of learning Clarinet in the late 70's. He was a great mentor and provided encouragement to keep at it. While I didn't continue playing, I still recall him being patient and helpful for anyone that was learning a new instrument. My condolences to his family.

Steve Kenyon

December 26, 2023

Mr. Anzalone was my teacher one summer (1973 or 1974?) as I learned saxophone, having started on clarinet a few years before. I remember him as a warm and encouraging teacher, and his instruction is one of the reasons I´m a professional musician (Broadway, NY Phil, etc). He touched the lives of thousands with his many years of teaching, and also with his well-known and still-popular instruction books. My condolences to his family and friends.

Steve Kenyon - New York, NY

Mike Hohman

June 11, 2021

While I was not always the best student Mr. Anzalone was the best music teacher. He is a large part of why I am still playing today. My condolences to family and friends. You will be missed Mr. Anzalone.

Mike Hohman - Class of '90

Karan Thompson

January 26, 2021

I met Val at St Ann's, where he shared a dinner table with my mom. He was a delight to talk to, and we shared many a music story. Always singing and directing. What a sweet gentleman.

Don Keeley

January 26, 2021

Tammy, I was sorry to hear about the loss of your father. I have been keeping you, Ray and your family in my prayers.

Carol Weilert

January 23, 2021

Tammy, so sorry to hear of you father's passing. I understand your feelings, I lost my Mother on Jan 4 th. Will remember you and your family in my prays.

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