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Chris Vadala Obituary
- - CHRIS VADALA, JAZZ LEGEND, SCHOLAR AND EDUCATOR DIES AT AGE 70.
One of the country's foremost saxophonists shared his love for jazz at University of Maryland's School of Music for 25 years. Chris Vadala was a jazz legend.
He was also a University of Maryland distinguished scholar-teacher (2010-2011), director of Jazz Studies and professor of saxophone in the School of Music. Even while battling cancer for the past 10 years, he never missed a single performance or university obligation and continued teaching up to his death. Vadala passed away on January 17, 2019 at age 70.
One of the country's foremost saxophonists and woodwind artists, Vadala was in high demand as both a performer and educator. He was a rare example of someone highly proficient in both jazz and classical music.
He appeared on more than 100 recordings playing saxophone, flute and clarinet. Vadala was featured in innumerable jingle sessions, film and TV scores including "Criminal Minds," "Zombieland," "Life After Beth," "Avalon," "The Children of Sanchez" and "Saturday Night Live."
Throughout his career, Vadala performed and recorded with such greats as Diana Ross, B.B. King, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Stevie Wonder, Frankie Valli, Kendrick Lamar and Patti LaBelle to only name a few.
Most notable was his long tenure as standout woodwind artist with the internationally recognized Chuck Mangione Quartet. With this band, Vadala held performing credits on five gold and two platinum albums and won two Grammys, two Emmys and one Golden Globe Award. The quartet's 1977 hit single "Feels So Good" featured Vadala's famous saxophone solo and reached No. 4 on U.S. charts.
In 2018, he celebrated 20 years as the first call saxophonist with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) and NSO Pops. He regularly performed on the Memorial Day and Fourth of July concerts from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
A native of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Vadala graduated from Poughkeepsie High School before attending the Eastman School of Music, earning the honor of a Performer's Certificate in saxophone as well as a B.M. in Music Education. He received an M.A. in clarinet from Connecticut College and pursued postgraduate study in woodwind doubling at Eastman.
In addition to his many accomplishments as an artist and a scholar, he is remembered as a generous and caring teacher.
In his 25 years as director of Jazz Studies, Vadala completely transformed the university's jazz program.
"Chris brought tremendous devotion, passion and artistry to his work at UMD, along with an unfailing generosity of spirit as a teacher, mentor, colleague and friend," said Jason Geary, director of the School of Music. "Under his leadership, the jazz program rose to new heights and gained the national reputation that it enjoys today."
Chris is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathleen Cooper Vadala, his daughters, Nicole Vadala Sullivan and Juliana Christine Vadala, his sister Mary Gadler, his brother Joseph Vadala, beloved cousins, nephews, and nieces, and the many students and colleagues he worked with.
Donations can be made to the University of Maryland School of Music, Jazz Studies Dept.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Chris Vadala
Sponsored by Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc. - Silver Spring.
Francis Bianchi
April 19, 2025
I saw Chris perform in the late 70s with Dion and the Streetheart Band in Poughkeepsie at the opening of the new concert hall. I spoke with him after the show and he was most gracious. He was so incredibly gifted that it made an everlasting impression on me. Requiestcat in Pace.
Will J
March 24, 2025
Chris was someone who gave all of himself - to his music and his students. He was funny, articulate, perceptive and caring...and of course a tremendous talent. I was fortunate to study with him, and I admired how tirelessly he worked to support others. He had a hard time saying "no" or turning people down. He ran - didn't walk - between engagements with his packed schedule. Chris epitomized the idea that the more you give, the more you are capable of giving. I was very sad to find out about Chris's passing years later. The world is missing his incredible voice on soprano and mentorship in the classroom and on the bandstand.
E. Silburn-Lyons
January 19, 2025
Still miss ya Eb professor and yeah, I get "circle of fifths"...finally! A great, humble man, musician unlike any other and the best example of an outstanding teacher- remembered always.
Charles Papio
November 23, 2024
"May Chris Vadala, Always Be Held, In The Embrace Of The Lord. May His Family, Always Be Comforted, By Almighty God." Charles Papio
Eric Gonzalez
January 20, 2024
A wonderful man. I was one of the PET technologists who imaged him 2-3 times. At his first appointment, I immediately recognized his name. When I took him back to prep him for his scan, I immediately asked him if he was the Chris Vadala of the Chuck Mangione Quartet. He humbly said yes and I almost fell out of my chair. I saw him 2 more times after that. He was always warm, friendly and extremely humble. Yes, he spoke about his music, but he was just as comfortable talking about friends and family. When I heard he had passed, I was numb. I couldn´t believe it. The world lost a beautiful soul. Chris, you are definitely missed.
Kenny musillo
January 19, 2024
A great man and musician and teacher,May he rest well Kenny and my friend Charles papio
Eileen Oddo
January 19, 2024
I can't believe it's been 5 years since losing Chris and also losing John. 2019 was a very hard year. I think of you all the time, Kathy, and I'm grateful that John and Chris knew each other and gave us the beautiful gift of a friendship that got us both through some pretty tough years. I know that we both miss them both with the same deep sense of loss for these two incredible musicians, incredible dads, and soulful, beautiful men that they were. Thinking about you.
E. Silburn-Lyons
January 19, 2024
Chris was a humble giant whose easy command of playing and teaching gave much to many. He lives through the music he shared. For those who knew and still love him, we continue to laugh out loud at his outstanding sense of humor recalling his intelligence and wit amidst his memorable performance. Rest Chris. He challenged us to subscribe to a 'standard' of excellence like none other. E. Lyons 1.19.2024
Kenny musillo
February 21, 2023
Rest well,a great man and sax player
Eric Gonzalez
January 19, 2022
A wonderful musician and an even greater human being. I think about you all the time. The world is a sadder place without you and your marvelous music.
Edward Decker
January 19, 2021
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Lon Holder
November 25, 2020
I would like those in Chris' family to know I still deeply appreciate the beauty he gave to the world in his performances, and how his music has lifted my spirits countless times over the last 40 years, and I am sure will continue to do so for as many years as I have left on this Earth. Chris will not be forgotten as long as I am alive! God bless!
Frank Arciuolo
November 2, 2020
I was surprised and saddened to read of the death of Chris Vadala almost 2 years after it occurred.
I was a freshman at Connecticut College in 1972 when I met Chris and began taking private sax lessons from him. Although I had played sax all through high school and (I thought I) was proficient at it, Chris helped me realize how much I didn't know. In fact, shortly after starting lessons with Chris I switched my major from pre-law to Music and transferred to the University of Bridgeport.
Chris had told me about UB and its excellent Jazz program and that his brother Joe attended. I kept in contact with Chris through my years at UB and even saw him play with Mangione in the quartet at the Village Vanguard in 1976 or 1977. I continued sax lessons with Chris even after I transferred from Conn College and until he hooked up with the Mangione quartet.
I remember Chris had an old Plymouth Barracuda with a long sloping rear window.
I am very sorry to hear Chris is gone and I would like his family to know that he had a profound impact on my life and its path. Though I never attained the level of success Chris did, I graduated UB in 1977 with a Music degree and played professionally for 10 years. Although I had to acquiesce to getting the dreaded "day job" when my musical earnings fell short, I still play sax to this day. Thanks Chris, Godspeed.
Michael Owoc
February 4, 2020
I have played SAXES my whole life and always placed his improvisational abilities and tone at the top of my favorite few sax players....I always could not wait for Mr.Mangione to release something new, so I could hear Chris play.....I spent 20 years in various Army bands as a tenor sax,and low clarinet major.I was incredibly upset when Chris passed....I feel the tremendous loss.
E. Lyons
February 27, 2019
To Kathy and the Vadala family,
So sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories of your husband, father, brother, uncle, loved one. He was a kind, giving, humble man who loved teaching and playing. He gave so much to his students and to music. He will be missed but heaven received the best musician ever.
February 21, 2019
The obit doesn't mention Chris's tenure at Hampton University (fka Hampton Institute) in Hampton, VA during the mid 1970's. It was there that Chris sealed forever my love of jazz. He took our loose knit jazz ensemble to a whole different level. I will be ever grateful for his guidance and insight. We will all miss you Chris.
Gerry Means, HU 1975
Antonio Garcia
February 13, 2019
It was my privilege to know Chris and co-host him on several occasions, including a most fulfilling few days around 1990, I celebrated whenever I could send one of my undergrad students his way for graduate study. Chris was a warm person who never hesitated to show it through his words, actions, and music as he helped any musician who sought him. Thanks for showing the way.
Thomas Porto
February 10, 2019
What a nice and humble man, truly a great great artist. Chris took the time to write me 2 letters on what to practice back in 80s and then I saw him at Saratoga performing Arts and went up at the end of the show and thanked him for his kindness and somehow he knew who I was! He's playing in God's band now. His music lives on and thanks to Jesus so will he.
Eric Gonzalez
February 9, 2019
Thank you for all the wonderful music and memories. I feel very appreciative to have had the chance to meet and speak with you. You were a kind and gentle soul. My condolences to the entire family.
February 5, 2019
An enormous friend to the Montgomery County Public Schools and Maryland Public Schools Jazz Programs; you will be deeply missed.
Bud Caputo
Eric Howard
February 2, 2019
Chris Vadala was a beautiful human being with a love for people. I am most thankful that he took time help me as a person, musician and arranger. No words can express the gratitude I feel toward Chris for all he did for me and the many he touched through love. He lovingly performed music, taught music, nurtured musicians and music professionals. He is truly one of the great people or giants I have been fortunate enough to be nurtured by in this life. I am humble to have been his student and former member of one his U of Maryland bands. I am forever thankful. He, his life will continue to be an inspiration to me. He was the best!
David Allison
February 1, 2019
Rest in Peace my friend. You have sparked a fire in so many musicians and made them better people along the way. Chris had the ability to share his knowledge at such a high level as as an educator, but also showing how to be humble. Every clinic that we did together made me a much better musician, not to mention the years while performing with Chuck. God bless you and the Vadala family.
Vadala Fan
January 29, 2019
Chris Vadala over there on everything......B'bye Chris with a tear in my eye God Bless
Michael Ensley
January 29, 2019
I am a 53 year old man and I still have heroes and now one of the most important and inspiring ones is gone. The world is a little less bright. Your command of a Tenor Saxophone will endure forever. As you meet God he will surely know that he/she has met the god of the Tenor Sax. That is how I thought of you for the 30 plus years I have listened in amazement at what you could do. RIP and be well in that great Jazz Band in the sky. Your guidance will be missed. The world is a little less bright than it was. Blessings to those who are left behind.
Skye Edwards
January 29, 2019
Thank you .. thank you for the peace you provided.. the lessons you taught... the happiness you brought.. and the music that you played. Much love always Mr. V
Blessings and peace to your family.
Mike McCloskey
January 29, 2019
RIP, fellow Terripan and Hudson Valley native, your work with Chuck Mangione still warms my heart,
January 28, 2019
It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.
Robert Fogleman
January 28, 2019
Chris was as warm and sincere as a person as he was awesome as a musician. I still refer to his teaching and example with my own students. He was totally engaging. We will always remember him.
Ellen Levy
January 28, 2019
Kathy, Nicole and Juliana,
Condolences on the loss of your beloved husband and father. May his memory be a blessing.
Ellen and Diana
January 28, 2019
Dear Kathy,
My personal sorrow and regrets for you and your family.Chris was a great musician--and you are as well! Much appreciated your(and Chris')time with us at BUCC. I learned a lot from you, and Chris... Gary Lawson
Clifford Porter
January 28, 2019
Dear Kathy,
Was so sorry to read of Christ's death. He was too young.... I remember attending a concert he gave at Montgomery College. And it was thrilling to hear such a brilliant musician.
Sympathy and love from everyone at BUCC.
Clifford Porter
Michael Toman
January 28, 2019
Dear Kathy, your choir family at BUCC only got word of this a few days ago, but all of us feel deep sorrow for the loss of Chris brilliant musician, loving father, and above all, your husband and partner in bringing light and love to this world. We hold you, your daughters, and all those who loved Chris in God's light. Mike
Dudley Simmons
January 28, 2019
The music world lost yet another fine musician, may he rest in peace.
Stacey Ladd Mulholland
January 27, 2019
My mom was friends of Chris and his wife from college. I will always remember the visit to his house in which we had to sleep under his piano because there wasn't any other room. There were instruments everywhere in that little house. I was amazed by his gold and platinum records on the wall. Thank you for bringing music into this world that people loved. RIP Chirs Vadala
Richard Allen
January 26, 2019
I just learned of Chris' passing and send my condolences to his family. I knew Chris from my time as a student at Connecticut College in the 1970's when he was the director of our student jazz band. I have such find memories of Chris and was fortunate enough to see him a few times in later years when he was touring and we would get together after his gigs for dinner. Although we lost touch, I never will forget what a wonderful, caring and kind man he was, with a rare musical talent to boot. I know he touched the lives of hundreds of students and thousands of fans. May your memories of Chris be a blessing to you always.
January 26, 2019
My father, Jerry Rabinowitz, taught Chris to play saxophone at Poughkeepsie. And Chris was one of my dad's many students who came to the house to babysit. I was glad he and my dad stayed in touch as did I when I lived in Maryland. Sending condolences. May his memory be a blessing.
Eileen Oddo
January 25, 2019
Kathy~
John and I are deeply saddened to learn of Chris' passing. We hold you in our hearts with love over the loss of half of the dynamic- duo of the music teaching and playing world. So many musicians all around this country mourn with you. ((((((((((((♥Hugs♥)))))))))))))))) and love surround you.
Sandra OHara
January 25, 2019
Kathy, Nicky and Juliana,
I read about Chris and wanted to give you my sincere sympathy. May he rest in peace. I have fond memories of all of us at the pool and swim meets. Chris is up playing the sax for the angels. May he rest in peace.
Sandy O'Hara
Edward Decker
January 25, 2019
Rest in Peace Chris. May God comfort your family.
January 25, 2019
Please accept our sincere condolences to the family
and friends. Losing a loved one in death is never easy. May your hearts find comfort in the words found at 1 Thessalonians 4:14. A wonderful hope of seeing your loved ones again.
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