MICHAEL JAFFEE Obituary

JAFFEE--Michael, of Patterson, New York, died at home on June 15, 2019. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on April 21, 1938, he was 81 years old. His death occurred while he was working on the land around his house. Michael Jaffee was a founder and director of The Waverly Consort, an ensemble dedicated to the performance of early musical styles. The group was formed in New York City in 1961, just after Jaffee received his Master's degree in musicology from New York University. He also served as founder and first president of Chamber Music America. In addition, he played a significant leadership role in the formation of Early Music America, the national service organization dedicated to promoting early music. Michael Jaffee was the son of Eva Jaffee Jessor and Leo Jaffee who resided in New York City. He is survived by his wife and colleague Kay; his sister Claire Jaffee Speciner of Pennswood Village in Pennsylvania; his niece Anne Speciner Gould of Valley Stream, New York, and her family; and his nephew David Speciner of Manhattan, and his wife. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

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Published by New York Times on Jun. 18, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL JAFFEE

12 Entries

Mark Wright

June 12, 2023

The wonderful Waverly Consort Christmas concert began the holiday season for me for over 20 years as a member of the audience.The sun set during the concert, the medieval music with its austere, unsentimental harmonies reminded us that life is not all sweetness. But the Estampe passage also provided the contrary reminder that people in all times celebrated life. Michael's powerful striking of the drum startled us..... Listen! Awaken! Life is pain AND joy. I never grew tired of those performances which were MORE than performances. I can still hear Michael's drum rapping and it reminds me that I miss him and his )and Kay's) and to treasure life because it can end so suddenly. With thanks to Michael and Kay for those experiences and for the honor to consider them my friends. With love, Mark

Jean Durbin

July 4, 2021

Listening now to the wonderful music of the Waverly Consort's American Journey. Just learned on line that founder Michael Jaffee has passed away. So profoundly sad. I have several Waverly Consort recordings but this is my very favorite. It is inspired and inspirational. I know the angels are surrounding Michael and most likely they're making beautiful music together. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Nearing 81 myself, I know his passing was way too soon.

Mark Wright

June 16, 2020

The holidays began for me every year with the annual Cloisters concert and the dinner party after. This was the last party but it wasn't a depressing time. Michael said it was time to move on and he had big plans. He loved his garden and, sad as it was, his passing couldn't have happened in a more appropriate place. I will always remember an evening when most of the party members had left and three of us remained to be spellbound as Michael and Kay described the alternative theatre world of New York City in the early 60's. Michael had impeccable taste, strove to achieve the highest musical standards and yet he was warm and so grateful to meet and get to know us, his faithful fans. Michael made musical history. He was a true treasure of New York City and I was honored to consider him a friend. With love to Kay, Mark

David Eyges

June 27, 2019

i always appreciated the fact that Michael was a substantial donor of Chamber Music America..an excellent organization in the eighties..i received two awards from CMA..that was when i was in my mid thirties..those two awards were significant in my career.

June 26, 2019

Dear Kay, I just learned this devastating news. I spoke with Michael about 2 months ago and he seemed well and enthusiastic about the future. Please let me help. I'll be in touch. Will talk soon. A big hug and love, Mark

June 23, 2019

Sincere condolences from all of Milwaukee's EARLY MUSIC NOW audiences with which The WAVERLY CONSORT left irreplaceable memories of Michael & Kay's many concerts here.
Thallis Hoyt Drake, Founder of EMN

Judson Griffin

June 20, 2019

We've lost a seminal figure in early music. The scene as it is today is inconceivable without his work.
Judson Griffin

David Ripley

June 19, 2019

With love and deepest thanks for the many years working with Mike and Kay and all the wonderful music and musicians of the Waverly Consort. My first was 1984 and the last at the final Cloisters Christmas Story in 2017. What a blessing! Thank You Always Mike

Richard Taruskin

June 18, 2019

Dear Kay,
So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I have many lovely memories of you and him, and the times I moonlighted with the Consort. Banging the drum in Tully Hall in particular. I admired Mike's professionalism and his kindness, and treasured his friendship. It has been a long time, but I still feel close to you, and feel the loss keenly.
Richard Taruskin

Edward Kottick

June 18, 2019

Kay, So sorry to hear about Michael. He was a real pioneer and a stunning musician.

June 18, 2019

I have many lovely and fun memories of working as a guest artist with Mike and Kay. They were always supportive and nurturing of younger performers, and the Waverly Consort will always be remembered as one of the iconic early music groups in the country.
Sending love to Kay- Susan Iadone

June 18, 2019

To his family, my most sincere condolence, and may our heavenly god bring you comfort and peace, Mathews 5:4

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