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Peter Howard Obituary

HOWARD--Peter, 80, on Friday, April 18. Beloved father of Jason, father-in-law to Mia, and grandpa Peter to Sara Rose. A brilliant music director/dance music arranger, whose music enriched our lives and has become part of the fabric of Broadway. Respected by all who knew him, his kindness and generosity were matched only by his creativity and virtuosity. Peter brought his special brand of warmth and good will wherever he went. He taught us all to 'practice' and do our best. Your spirit will always be with us, and we love you very much! Donations in Peter's honor can be made to Broadway Cares/EFA. Celebration to be announced.

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

Published by New York Times on Apr. 27, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Howard

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Mia Howard

April 17, 2017

Tomorrow it will be 9 years since we lost peter. Today Jason and I honored him at a local park. He lives on in ourselves, and our daughter, who has his musical genius.

Gary Perlman

January 3, 2009

Peter was a warm and caring person and a wonderful friend. Always the first person I would call when I went to New York, he would immediately open his home and schedule to accommodate me. He had an infectious joy for life, an enthusiasm for new places and experiences, and of course boundless talent, which he shared generously. I remember visiting a nightclub in the city with Peter and my parents on their anniversary. At one point, Peter somehow commandeered the piano and, in front of many startled customers (not to mention the management), dedicated a Gershwin ballad to my folks. It was a beautiful moment that my mom in particular has never forgotten.

We also had great times together on his numerous trips to Tokyo, my home, where he has legions of friends and admirers. Peter loved Japan, and believe me, the feeling was mutual. I know I speak for all of his many friends here in saying that we are going to miss him terribly. Thank you, Peter, for the music and the memories. We’ll remember you always.

Gary Perlman

January 3, 2009

Peter was a warm and caring person and a wonderful friend. Always the first person I would call when I went to New York, he would immediately open his home and schedule to accommodate me. He had an infectious joy for life, an enthusiasm for new places and experiences, and of course boundless talent, which he shared generously. I remember visiting a nightclub in the city with Peter and my parents on their anniversary. At one point, Peter somehow commandeered the piano and, in front of many startled customers (not to mention the management), dedicated a Gershwin ballad to my folks. It was a beautiful moment that my mom in particular has never forgotten.

We also had great times together on his numerous trips to Tokyo, my home, where he has legions of friends and admirers. Peter loved Japan, and believe me, the feeling was mutual. I know I speak for all of his many friends here in saying that we are going to miss him terribly. Thank you, Peter, for the music and the memories. We’ll remember you always.

Penny Dodd

December 31, 2008

Peter Howard was a man who was very kind to a complete stranger - I was a young music theatre pianist and MD from New Zealand on my way to London via NYC with only one name (that Joe Layton had given me) in my address book. Til I met Peter "Broadway" had been a name in lights, an impossible dream, and Peter allowed me to see it was full of real people, and kind people at that. His generosity with his time and his openness to a youngster is something I have tried to pass on in my 30 years of a music career. He was special and never forgotten.

Lorna Dallas

December 26, 2008

Peter was indeed a unique and remarkable human being. I had never known such a "sweet" man in nature and so full of humility when reminded of his achievements. I will never forget when walking with him one day, a young man approached us on the sidewalk and said for all to hear, "Hey! This is the man who gave me my chance to play on Broadway and taught me everything I know about being a musician". Peter smiled sweetly and embraced the young man...and in the next block another young musician hailed Peter with the same sort of acknowledgement and respect...he was a drummer in the pit at CHICAGO. Peter then expounded upon the talents of these two men and was so gracious.
Peter's talent at the keyboard and ingenuity at putting together arrangements for not only singers but dancers was truly unbeatable. I am so blessed that our paths crossed in life...with his invaluable teaching still ringing in my ears...and his gift of friendship forever in my heart. The world of theatre is a much sadder place without him...but his gifts of those toe tapping and devillish arrangements will live on and bring the house down again and again. Thank you! Thank you...for being you! A truly gentle man...full of genius and generosity.

Michael Lavine, Hugh Martin, Peter Howard

Michael Lavine

December 25, 2008

I learned so much from Maestro Pietro, what I've called Peter since we worked in Italy together in 1993. I know I've said this before, Jason, but rest assured that hardly a day goes by that I don't tell one of my students all about him. His work and his name will be known to all future musical theatre performers. The enclosed photo is of Peter, myself and Hugh Martin at Hugh's home a few years ago.

Michael Lavine

mia howard

December 25, 2008

Welcome to my memorial to my beloved father-in-law and love, Peter Howard, musician. Please share with us your loving memories of this amazing person, who touched my life deeply. Thank you. We will be having another memorial service for Peter in NYC in Spring of 09, and will let you know of location and time.
Fondly,
Mia Howard

Mel Streisand

May 2, 2008

Jason,
I was so sorry to hear of Dad's death. He was a wonderful,kind, and gentle soul. He will be missed.

Barbara Pollack/Ahntholz

April 30, 2008

Dear Jason and Mia,
Our hearts go out to you in sorrow. You are so great, loving and loyal. We will miss Peter very much. Love, Richard and Barbara

tickling the ivories

Jason Howard

April 28, 2008

Dad,
We loved a piano!
I love you very much

Fanette Pollack/Breit

April 27, 2008

Dear Jason, Mia and Sara,
Peter was very special. It was always wonderful to see him, chat with him, hear him play. We will remember forever his sitting at our piano and entertaining us all. And his music and charm remain in our hearts and souls. Love, JD, Jonathan, Elizabeth and Fanette

Come Follow the Band

JASON HOWARD

April 27, 2008

Thank you for visiting this tribute to my father. He touched so many lives with his spirit, warmth and his music. Any words would be truly appreciated.
At a later date, a musical memorial will be announced.
Jason

Tom Carlson

April 27, 2008

Generosity of spirit, an exceptional talent and good company at all times, Peter Howard made an indelible stamp on Broadway and the entertainment world where his name will always be honored.

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