Richard Herman

A Man And His Music
Richard had a love affair with music, specifically jazz since he was twelve years old thru the rest of his life. The house was always filled with music. Our family had a piano that was available for relatives, guests, or anyone in the neighborhood to play. We had old victoria (record player) along with a large collection of jazz and classical records. Richard played the alto saxophone during these formative years.
Richard began taking formal music lessons and was exposed to the Kansas City jazz scene at an early age. Richard would often go to the Pla-Mor (which opened in 1927 and closed in 1951). The Pla-Mor had a bowling alley below and a huge dance floor above. Richard was exposed to jazz greats Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra as well as big bands (Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Harry James, Stan Kenton and Tommy Dorsey) that played at the Pla-Mor. During the summer months my mother would have the jazz band (10-12) players Richard was in rehearse in our house. All the furniture in the living would be moved out for the band. The neighbors danced in our front lawn to the music. It was magical.
Richard enlisted in the Army in 1953 and was stationed in Panama where he continued to play jazz with small groups and bands. After his service he moved to San Francisco in 1955. Richard was exposed to an incredible number of jazz clubs and artists (Jimbo's Bop City, the Black Hawk, Basin Street West, the Jazz Workshop, the Jazz Cellar, the Keystone Korner, the El Matador, and the Both/And). Richard often would sit in after work at local bars/clubs to hone his music skills. Richard would expand his instruments to include tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, flute as well as his first love, the alto saxophone.
Richard was part the Cool Jazz movement that took place on the West Coast during the 1950's and 1960's. The music had more than one melody line in the musical arrangements. Some of the all-time great musicians were from the cool school (Chet Baker, Art Pepper, Dave Brubeck Quartet, Stan Getz, Paul Desmond, Bud Shank, and others). During this time Richard began private lessons with Lee Konitz (one of the great alto saxophonists). It was one of the greatest experiences of his life.
In the early 2000's Richard's life was about to change dramatically. Richard was blessed to meet the love of his life, Delia. After a brief courtship, Richard and Delia married in 2005. Delia became his wife, friend, confidant, and companion. Delia encouraged and supported Richard in his musical endeavors. Together, they enjoyed restaurants, friends, and travel. Delia provided love and caring throughout their life together. It was a wonderful life for Richard. Richard often told me Delia was always there to rely on and support him. Delia brought a richness and joy to his life. Richard was also blessed to have Jose as his stepson. They enjoyed many times together.
During the later portion of Richard's life, he enjoyed playing with trio's (piano, bass, and drums) in local clubs, bars, and restaurants. Richard truly had a love affair with his instruments. Many musicians would be very envious of the beautiful tone that came from the horns he played. It was quite beautiful. I will miss him very much. James Herman