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David Tigner Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for David Tigner
Jan Ward Healzer
December 7, 2023
David was always kind to me and smiled so much.
Phoebe Ciaffi Thomas Sorgen
December 7, 2020
8 years?! Is someone organizing another memorial concert in our beloved David's honor? It could be in 2021 if too hard to arrange this month. It'd be via zoom or another e-platform due to covid. Zoom is popular but timing/synchronicity probs prevent performing with an accompanist who's on a different computer. Options:
1. a cappella
2. self accompany if you play an instrument (everyone should at least learn ukelele-so easy!)
3. sing along to a recorded accompaniment (karaoke style)
4. singer and accompanist are in same room using same computer.
David's singers - you warm up before singing every day, don't you? YOU are David's legacy. Please keep sharing your gift, for your joy and others'. If you've gotten "rusty", there's no better time to get back to it.
At David's memorial, the wonderful Ingleside Church pastor remembered me because I had recitals there. He was kindly concerned that David's students continue vocal training and asked if I had openings in my schedule. I do teach, but was intimidated. I couldn't begin to fill David's shoes. But if any of David's students don't have a teacher/coach and can't afford one, I'm willing (via zoom for now.) He gave you solid technique, which I wouldn't mess with. I offer moral support and motivation if you don't have a better option. For decades, I've taught privately in my Full Bloom Studio (my living room.) I also teach a group singing class (for amateurs) at Berkeley Adult School. I teach deep breathing. 510-528-9428 PS My son won NBC's Songland last year w/ "Bad Habit." I got to be on the set of The Voice at Universal Studios. Good Morning America will soon air another of Zach Sorgen's pop songs, "Why I'm Here." (to make music... that's why we're here! Listen and weep.)
Bless Sings!
Phoebe Ciaffi Sorgen
December 28, 2012
David was a musical genius, exceptional singer, and extraordinary human being. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones including colleagues and his many students who owe him a lifetime of gratitude. I had the privilege of studying with him for about 5 years. In a way, he was my son's first teacher because I brought the baby to lessons and Zach, now a professional pop singer, sang along. Courtney Knott, who also studied with David, sang a duo w/ Zach last night and informed me that there will be a memorial concert tonight for David, Fri Dec. 28m at 7pm at the Ingleside Presbyterian church where he taught on Ocean Ave in SF. Bless Sings!
Claudia Siefer
December 23, 2012
I met David when I joined the San Francisco Opera Chorus in 1975. His warmth and passion for opera was easily transmitted to me the newcomer. He will be remembered for his generous spirit and kind nature.
Valerie Cooper
December 19, 2012
David was my voice teacher. He was like none other. He taught me so much about the voice and myself. He encouraged me to listen to my voice. I'll never forget the lessons and will always keep the recorded lessons to go to when I need vocal counseling. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Laurel Sprigg
December 18, 2012
I am grateful that I got to study singing with this dear and gentle man for several years, and so sad that his time among us is at an end. I like to think that he is singing in the celestial choir now.
Elaine Nagano
December 18, 2012
Dear Family, I send my deepest sympathies. David was a fabulous teacher and friend. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. His kind loving spirit and powerful,beautiful voice will ring in my heart as long as I live..God Bless, Elaine Nagano
December 17, 2012
David tiger was my friend my teacher and my inspiration in life he lives on in all of us .connie hibbard
December 17, 2012
David was truly a gifted man, very distinguished, very impressive. One could be enchanted by his warmth and intelligence, a vibrant man. David made friends easily and never acted like a big star, he was. His rich baritone voice, soulful and powerful was instantly recognizable. You will always be a blessing to us. Calvin Baker, Jr.
Kendra Dodd
December 17, 2012
Mr. Tigner changed so many lives with his infectious love for music and his caring soul. He will be sorely missed here, but what a beautiful legacy he has left behind. We love you and are eternally grateful.
Taylor Thompson
December 16, 2012
Mr. Tigner, was and always be a father to me, had it not been for him I would not be on the path in life that I am now. He was a gift from God, and one of the most caring people I will ever know. You will be greatly missed, and I hope to see you again someday. Love always. T.Thompson
Jeduthun Hughes
December 16, 2012
I considered David a friend as well as a beloved mentor. I remember most his life-affirming, joyous laughter. I studied voice with him from 1985-1987, and he helped me to get accepted to Oberlin Conservatory of Music on a scholarship. So grateful for his teaching, his music, and the way he lived life with so much love and joy. God bless all who were touched by his soul.
Phillip Harris
December 16, 2012
I will always remember Mr. Tigner, as the man who introduced me to classical singing. He gave me a copy of the Three Mo Tenors DVD and I was hooked! He was a great teacher and VERY encouraging, even to this day as I make my way through grad school. We just shared a conversation a couple of weeks ago that made my holiday a little brighter! See you in the Heavenly choir Mr. Tigner!!
Elmetra Patterson
December 16, 2012
A great man with an enormous talent. He thought it awesome that my son, Reggie Patterson, would take me to see Audra McDonald at Davies Symphony Hall as a Christmas gift when Reggie was a teenager. Audra was one of Mr. Tigner's favorite singers. As a parent of Young Musicians Program-Berkeley, thanks to Mr. Tigner for his contributions to that program. My son, Reggie, was one of the beneficiaries.
Phyllis (Ottman) & Lowell Hanks
December 15, 2012
David was always kind, with a larger-than-life personality and voice. We always wanted to hear him sing one more time. Our condolences to his family.
David Grunwald
December 15, 2012
Mr. Tigner was an exceptional human being. He had a contagious warm-hearted spirit and an incredible voice. At the Young Musician's Program, Mr. Tigner's distinct voice and laugh could often be heard from far down the hall before he was seen. He was a truly gifted teacher and musician, and he touched my life as well as many, many others.
December 15, 2012
David was my colleague and friend in music and one of the most generous, kind hearted, warm and ebullient people I've ever known. Filled with love of music, people and life. Listening to him sing the Bass solos in the Verdi Requiem is a lesson I will never forget. Such passion, beauty and conviction! Sing on David! We hear you still. Katya R
Bonita Hyman
Bonita Hyman
December 15, 2012
God rest your soul, David.
Samantha Howard
December 15, 2012
I will truly miss Mr. Tigner. The first time I heard Mr. Tigner sing was as a student in the Young Musicians Program. He stood in front of us inside of Hertz Hall and talked us first with his huge voice about this song that he was going to sing us. He sang about a white horse, it was the most beautiful sound I ever heard. He was truly a wonderful person.
Pam (Wesner) Ball
December 15, 2012
So sorry to hear of David's passing... now heaven's choir just became even more glorious!!
Ric Henry
December 15, 2012
David was my best friend at Redwood Empire Elementary School until we moved away, the summer after 5th grade. We always picked each other for whatever sport was being played, dare base, kickball, and especially baseball. When the teachers saw us on the same team, they'd come out and separate us. In the 5th grade, we had David face the wall on the opposite side of the class room from the piano. David called out every note we played. David never stopped amazing me. With love, Ric
Dan Long National Assn of Negro, Inc.
December 15, 2012
David, thanks for sharing your gifts of music, love and friendship. You gave your all to your friends, family, colleagues and your students. One of the most moving tributes that I've seen is that, your students have changed their Facebook pictures to pictures of you. We love you and will miss you.
December 15, 2012
My first and my best vocal teacher, mentor, and friend. His spirit lives on in my music and the music I teach to my students! Resquiat in Pacem, David.
Lino Ochoa
December 15, 2012
David Tigner, thank you so much for being a wonderful mentor and a great friend. Your soulful laugh, exceptional kindness, heartfelt honesty, golden wisdom, and unwavering faith and confidence in your students will never be forgotten. Your beautiful voice and spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of all of those whom you have graced. We are deeply saddened to lose such a treasure, but so grateful for the time we had to share in your radiance. May you rest high on that mountain, adjoining the angels with your resonance.
December 14, 2012
My old friend, You added so much to my experience of those two formative years of boarding academy during which we shared deeply felt experiences that connected our souls with so many friends and loved ones. I'm saddened that this portion of your story has ended, and that we will not create any new stories here, but I find pleasure knowing that your spirit lives on in the lives of those you touched, like me. Love, Randy
December 14, 2012
David and I were classmates from 7th grade through college. He was interested in everyone and everything. And, of course, he loved to sing! His hearty laugh and ebullient spirit raised all our spirits.
David Westcott
Jan Ward-Healzer
December 14, 2012
David was always kind to me! He had a nick name for me no one else but he used. He called me Janzie-Sue with a lilt in his special David voice that grinned when he said it! His music lifted me and my family to a higher place!
Susan Kelly
December 14, 2012
I've known him over 50 years and will never forget his voice, his smile, his laughter and his positive outlook on life. I'm looking forward to that eternal reunion in the clouds of heaven. I send my love to David's family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Arthur corbett
December 14, 2012
Dave was my life long friend, I am saddened to hear of his passing. my e-mail is [email protected] I would love to talk to the family...Love arthur................
Myra Josselyn Peterson
December 14, 2012
It's been a long time and so sad to see he has left us. He always had a smile on his face and a voice that was comforting.
Rhonda Whitney
December 14, 2012
I have fond memories of David at Rio and loved hearing him sing. He was always kind and upbeat. It was a special treat to visit with him a few weeks ago--still the same wonderful friend. He will be missed.
Lyle Bennett
December 14, 2012
He was the "voice" of God in our high school choir; more importantly, his character reflected God's love and kindness.
Wanda Westcott
December 14, 2012
Dear David . . . .oh my friend for 40 years. We shared our highschool days @ Rio. The contagious smile, hearty laugh and of course the voice of an angel. I'm going to miss you. God rest with you my friend.
Chris Mathisen
December 14, 2012
A great inspiration to me at Rio in the Lindaires. Such a sad loss.
Larry & Dorothy Morris
December 14, 2012
Our sincere condolences to the entire Tigner family, may God comfort you during this time & always.
Suzanne Turley
December 14, 2012
David was a warm and gentle presence in the musical scene of my life for a very long time. I miss him. God Bless him.
December 14, 2012
I was saddened to hear of David's passing. What a kind soul. I was touched not only by his amazing, deep and beautiful voice but in generous way he shared it and encouraged other singers. He will be missed.
George Shirley
December 14, 2012
Rest well, David, and fill the heavens with your powerful, melodious voice and loving presence!
NORM&PEGGY BABIN&FAMILY
December 13, 2012
DAVID WAS OUR NEIGHBOR FOR 30 YRS,WE WOULD HEAR DAVID BEAUTIFUL VOICE OVER THE YRS COMING FROM HIS APARTMENT ,NOW HE IS WITH THE LORD SINGING WITH THE ANGELS,REST IN PEACE DEAR DAVID ,YOU WILL BE MISS VERY MUCH..
Yolanda Harden
December 13, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of David's passing. My sincere condolences to the Tigner (and extended) family.
December 13, 2012
Sincere condolences to the Tigner Family and friends. May you draw close to God during this time and have confidence that in doing so, he will draw close to you. James 4:8
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