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Elliot Fine Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Elliot Fine
Jendeen Forberg
April 30, 2024
Elliot is still very much in my drumming world.
I get asked often how I learned to play at the level I do. My answer is always "my teacher Elliot Fine showed me the path and more importantly imbued me with the JOY of pursuing excellence and the excitement of discovery.
Elliot always had my back when others done harshly of me. He never stood for anything like that from anyone.
Thank you Always Elliot!!!!
Joe Fischman
May 2, 2022
It never ceases to amaze us, how Eliot & Marv's 4-Way is studied all over the world. It is such a wonderful ice breaker anywhere that evolves into long discussions and new relationships! I was able to discuss the book with Walfredo Reyes Jr. a few years ago. Eliot, thanks for being a global inspiration!
Phil Kjos
May 1, 2022
When I sat down at my 5 pc blue sparkle drum set, (that I bought from Mr. Fine in 1974), yesterday, I was reminded of my greatest percussion instructor, once again! After myself teaching, at one time, 60 students/week, and, playing professionally for 50 years, I can´t think of any one person who, inspired, guided, and yes, even scolded me, when deserved, more than Mr. Fine. Being far from his, "best," student, Mr. Fine would be thrilled to know my enjoyment factor, as a musician, was OFF THE CHARTS! A MuEd degree, and playing with some of the finest musicians, not only locally, but, internationally, makes me more appreciative than ever. Broadway shows, CW gigs, road gigs, even 2nd chair triangle parts, etc., etc! I couldn´t have done this without his remarkable well rounded instruction! EVERYTHING I performed was as important as ANY OTHER! I will be grateful forever! RIP Mr. Fine....you could not have done a better job in everything you did! With deepest love and respect, thank you! Phil Kjos
Joe Fischman
April 30, 2021
David, John, Milo, Leo, Keith, Bissonette, How awesome, this blessing! The Drum Circle of Life is truley a remarkable, spiritual miracle! The many drummers influenced by Elliot is so uplifting & encouraging! What a gift that he shared with us! My 2 greatest influences, huge jazz lovers. Without them. I'd be lost. Onward, & upward to Pearl, perhaps Ludwig gates of Rhythm & demeanor. 5/4 ! Ken Fischman, Elliot Fine!
kyle ramswick.
January 3, 2021
Greatest teacher ever. I played professionally for 40 years and I owe it to him
Lou Hurvitz
April 30, 2020
I often think of Elliot -- fondly. He was a phenomenal percussionist. As a tandem, Marv Dahlgren and Elliot Fine of the minneapolis Symphony/Minnesota Orchestra was one of the best in the business. My direct contact with him was as one of his percussion students. He was a superb pedagogist, who was not above cracking a joke to help clear the cobwebs in order to get his point across. I miss him greatly. Rest in peace, Elliot.
David Falkanger
May 4, 2019
Another memory of Mr Fine occurred during a visit to Floyd Thompson's drum store. Inside the store somebody had pinned a picture of Elliot Fine, Marvin Dahlgren, and I believe Floyd Thompson on the wall, photographed from the side. The caption read..." Profiles in Courage." (Punning the JFK Biography) I mentioned it at my next lesson, he was all smiles.
We all had to play my quiet drum outside the cafe. I'm sure this day will be remembered by all of us.
John Melcher
June 4, 2013
Here is Picture #3. I had an idea to get the drummers together. Scott Simpson helped me make the calls and we met at a Cafe on Hyw 100...or some such. I drove Elliot to and from the event. Fun times were had by all.
2009 Meeting of "The Drummers"
John Melcher
June 4, 2013
Here is Picture #2
John Melcher
June 4, 2013
I just found these three pictures from our 2009 Meeting of 'the Drummers"
david falkanger
August 23, 2012
It was a privelege to be schooled by Elliot Fine. His patience helped me make the transition from field drumming to traps. His passion and heart was reflected in his contributions to local school programs. He always gave back.
4-way has long been a standard for percussion instruction. Among others, Max Roach used 4-way in his teachings at the U of Mass.
I have never forgotten him, and I never will.
Craig Burma
August 14, 2012
Mr. Fine was my drum instructor for 4 years. He taught me the difference between "banging" and "playing music." He taught me the space between beats, syncopation and most of all he tamed my 80s rock ways enough to play Hank Levy's Whiplash in a jazz band. I seeing him just off stage with tears in his eyes while I performed it with the band. It was the highlight of my drumming "career." I only play casually now but I always think of him when I sit down to play asking me "are we going to bang on the drums today Craig? Or play music." I like to believe I learned to play music from Mr. Fine.
Chris Dahlgren
July 8, 2012
Sunday, July 15, Tribute to Elliot Fine, (7pm)
A drummer for the Minnesota Orchestra for more than 40 years, master percussionist Elliot Fine made many lasting contributions to the art of drumming. Elliot passed away in May, and will be saluted in a musical tribute at the Artists'Quarter, 7pm July 15.
The Krueger Family
June 6, 2012
We are so grateful our family got to know Elliot (and his wife too). He gave our son 10 years of much more than excellent drum instruction, which just ended this past fall when he went to college. He offered humor, wisdom, motivation, inspiration, advise and a joyful spirit of living that we will never forget. He was practically giddy when when we brought him a small supply of brownies or caramels. He was always interested and encouraging. We miss our regular visits with Mr. Fine. Our heartfelt condolences to his family.
Ned Zarecky
June 2, 2012
Elliot Fine was my instructor for three years. During that time I learned how to drum and more importantly how to listen and read rhythm. Forty years later I am still drumming and think of him every time I sit down at the drums and play. Elliot loved to put in these fake vampire teeth on and pull out a little dagger, not say a word, and made you play it over and over until you got it right. What a wild man, he will always be in my memories. Thanks and Blessings to you my friend and teacher.
Thomas McShane
May 24, 2012
Mr Fine was one of the most influential people in my life. I was fortunate to have known him.
John-Hans Melcher
John-Hans Melcher
May 21, 2012
This is Elliot Fine: Enthuiasism for Life! Eager to participate in life! Eager to the max!! I played duets with him on my quiet drum in 2009 at his home and he was eager as ever to join in. This is a legacy to emulate friends. Every time I was in his presence he exuded energy and talked up a storm. Elliot Fine had a wonderful voice....remember that tone? He's probably teaching God paradiddles right now. I have a wayshower to live life to the highest...and that person is Elliot Fine.
Elliott, John Melcher, Marv Dahlgren, Gary Gauger, Russ Moore, Scott Crosbie
Scott Simpson
May 17, 2012
Dear Milo, Leo, and Family,
Elliot was what I looked forward to -every week - lesson time, Edina High. I loved the jokes and the pranks. Fantastic and funny stories of Elliot vs the conductor. Warning! No conductor should ever try to tell Elliot how to play the gong.
As much as I loved the jokes and stories, I loved what he taught me even more. My first career and passion was drummer - and it would have never happened without Elliott. He gave me my first job at age 17. "Scott. I need you to play for me tonight - I can't be playing for the orchestra and at the Ranch House at the same time." I didn't think I could do it, but he laughed and assured me I was ready.
Elliot, because of you, drumming paid my way through 2 degrees at the U of M and supported my family for years. How can I thank you enough. You taught me more than you'll ever know. You will be greatly missed.
I've attached a photo of Elliot and the drummers that John Melcher brought together for lunch on Aug 4, 2009.
Dear Elliot, you live on in our hearts and through every rhythm and every gig we'll ever play. Thank you!
Chuck Elledge
May 16, 2012
Dear Milo, Leo, and family,
I send my prayers and deepest sympathy to you as we all mourn the loss of Mr. Fine. Outside of my family, there are few human beings who have had, or continue to have, a greater, more positive impact on my life. I grew up in Edina and had the honor of studying with Mr. Fine in junior high, high school, and at the UofM; I watched him perform with the Minnesota Orchestra countless times (I'll never forget the concert with Benny Goodman); his percussion ensemble "Down South" was performed at every Edina sporting event I can remember; and I had the privilege of being the editor of his book "Moves and Grooves." Not a day goes by that I do not apply the lessons I learned from Mr. Fine, both as a musician, and as a person. His smiling face, his honesty, his wisdom, his open-mindedness, the pride he had for every one of his students, his humility, his incredible work ethic, and his pure musical genius continue to touch our world through his students, friends, family, books, ensembles, and recordings. I thank God for sharing Mr. Fine with us, and know that he is now in God's loving arms, and with us in spirit as we all continue our journeys here on Earth. Mr. Fine, you helped make me and so many others who we are, and for that and so much more, we are forever grateful.
Ed Stalling
May 14, 2012
I met Elliot for the first time for lunch at Perkins because the next day were doing an open drum solo duel for Sing, Sing, Sing with a big band. He says: "rule number one, we don't talk about tomorrow, it has to be spontaneous." The stories he told over that one lunch stay with me today (many about the burlesque days of course). His passion, his energy, his spirit infected me from the start. The solo together was pure joy - I kept looking over at his huge smile, him egging me on. Thank you, Elliot for the confidence you gave me, for inspiring me when I needed it. You will be missed but with us always.
Jason Bonnicksen
May 12, 2012
Elliot was a phenomenal drum instructor who lived life to the fullest and encouraged the same. I'll never forget how he pushed me to be a better percussionist. He always encouraged, and wasn't afraid to to get on my case when I wasn't putting it all on the line.
Thank you Elliot for helping to make me a better man.
James Roth
May 11, 2012
Eliot was my drum teacher in junior high school and high school and beyond. He was more than a teacher. He was one of those rare inspirational teachers you encounter that you can count on one hand. He was a mentor and inspiration. He was interested in me as a person as well as a drummer and encouraged me in all of my activities. Although I later chose another career the lessons I learned from him continued and will never be forgotten. I stayed in contact with him and he was always interested and encouraging when I talked with him. He will be missed. He was a huge influence in my life. My condolences to Milo and the rest of the family.
Jeremy Horvath
May 11, 2012
Elliot taught me to play and live in the moment. The life lessons that were taught in his practice room effected so many people.
I was lucky enough study with Elliot from age 9 to 18 and continue a mentorship like so many others for years after. We enjoyed lunches consisting of outlandish stories that were all to true. He made a lasting impression on me. I am a musician and percussion instructor because of his teachings. Elliot, may you rest in a deep groove, swinging.
Keith Globus
May 10, 2012
Elliot fine was a very good drum teacher and person. He defintely was an influence to me and helped my drumming ability. I will never forget Elliot.
Keith Globus
Mike Flavin
May 10, 2012
At the top of my list of fond memories growing up in suburban Minneapolis was my weekly lesson with Elliot. He'd always welcome me with a smile, take his spot next to me behind the drum kit, put in some earplugs(I always wondered about those!?) and sometimes he'd pour himself a glass of wine. For the next half hour, it was an incredible time of the master helping the kid fall in love with the wonder of music. Thank you, Elliot! I play on at age 58 and you are the reason why. There's no doubt God is enjoying your drumming in heaven.."praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals." Psalm 150:5
Joe Fischman
May 10, 2012
Elliot was a great friend, musciian, drummer an awesome and import;ant inspiration and motivator for drummers throughout the Twin Cities and elsewhere. Everyone will remember his great ability to discipline young students and inspire them to play drums, learn theory and for all of his service to the Minnesota Orchestra and the community. He will always be an eternal source for drummers and percussionists. Joe Fischman
Christopher Allen
May 9, 2012
Elliot's somewhat unorthodox approach to teaching helped hold my attention and made me a better drummer. He loved to talk about "being true to yourself" both in life and in music - words I have lived by ever since knowing him. I was fortunate to have him as a teacher but blessed to know him as a person.
Kent Saunders
May 9, 2012
Elliott was a great musician, a joy to work with, and a wonderful guy, with the unique ability to keep the vibe happy around him. He will be missed, indeed.
Jessica Olson
May 9, 2012
Elliot was my percussion teacher for four years. I learned so much more than just percussion during our lessons. He was definitely more like a grandfather to me than a teacher. He was a great man and I will miss him.
Miller Family
May 8, 2012
Both of my sons studied under Mr. Fine and we grew to love him and his wife. What a wonderful human being, full of jokes, laughter and friendliness and what a mean drum he could still play, even in his later years. We will miss him. May you find comfort during your time of grief knowing he made a difference in so many lives. The Miller Family, Prior Lake, MN
Marcia Chalmers
May 7, 2012
May you and yours find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Regards,
The Marcia (Feldman) Chalmers Family
Sam and Darryl Medal and Lynch
May 7, 2012
"There is sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief...and unspeakable love."
Like architects, and artists, musicians live beyond their death. Rest in Peace Elliot.
Loving Family of Sam Medal
(I am so sorry for your loss)
Scott Sansby
May 7, 2012
I had the privilege to study with Elliot for a year or so during the mid-70s. What a wonderful, gracious, supportive, motivating and hilarious man and teacher he was. RIP Elliot.
May 7, 2012
Elliot was my teacher. I will remember him always. Dennis Craswell drummer: from The Castaways and Crow
Frank Briggs
May 7, 2012
Having owned "4 Way Coordination" for decades Elliot's name was very familiar to me. In 2010 I got to meet and spend an evening with Elliot that will last as one of my fondest memories. I had so much fun that night, his humor was infectious and he was not afraid to dish out compliments. Elliot Fine was the type of musician/person/teacher that is rare these days in my opinion. There was never an air of self importance, only a feeling that he actually wanted to get to know you, and that you mattered. I loved that.
Rest in Peace Big Sir, your spirit will live on as it is a part of those who were lucky enough to experience you.
Mike Reynolds
May 7, 2012
Thank you Mr. Fine for teaching me how to play the right way; for being a great person and friend during my coming of age, a sentiment many others share. You will be missed and were a tremendously valued figure in life.
Cindy Schlicht
May 7, 2012
He will live on in the countless students that he had. His legacy and his books 4-Way Coordination, Accent on Accents, and Moves and Grooves, will live on. As long as we have that, he will still be around. Condolences to the rest of the Fine family.
Elliot with his Section.
Dave Balazs
May 7, 2012
Retirement Day
Dave Balazs
May 7, 2012
David Boe
May 7, 2012
Milo and Family, though Elliot's legend struck fear in me while studying as a young percussionist with Milo in the studio basement, as his pupil I learned so much more than drumming through High School and Normandale. He was a wonderful mentor on the passion of life - and he will be greatly missed.
Marko James
May 7, 2012
All around Great Guy, I Loved the fact he would sit and chat with Me all the time at Orchestra Hall and I am a maintenace worker
David Ellingson
May 7, 2012
Elliot, you were the best of the best........................
David Stanoch
May 7, 2012
Elliot's influence on me, ever since I was 10 years old, is immeasurable. He was my teacher, a mentor, a confidant and, most importantly, my friend. I've never laughed harder than when he'd get on a roll with his jokes and superb sense of humor and impeccable timing. I will always treasure that he guided and pushed me to finish a method book for drumset I spent 10 years developing and he even wrote its foreword. In so many ways, I owe him my career. He opened so many doors for me, as he did for so many others. He had a deep insight into human behavior, and also strong values, which I had complete trust in. He was one of a kind and I loved him. He and Agnes are together again and that's beautiful. My condolences and love to Milo, Susan, Leo and the rest of Elliot's family. I'll miss you, pal.
John Torvik
May 7, 2012
Mr. Fine was a wonderful teacher for our son Josiah over the last several years. He was so humble and kind.....and funny! Godspeed Mr. Fine. You will be missed.
Willy Blanco
May 7, 2012
I was fortunate to study with Elliot in the early 70's. He was an exemplary instructor, a consummate professional and a good man. He had positive impact on my life. I'm grateful and the better for it. My condolences to his family.
Robert Lowy
May 7, 2012
"Hey did you hear the one about...?" was usually how a lesson began with Elliot. Always generous with smiles and jokes, Elliot was a true mentor and role model for all of his students, myself included. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Elliot, with Butch Miles, Dave Stanoch and myself.
Jendeen/Brett Forberg
May 7, 2012
Time stood still with Elliot. Be it a lesson, just gabbin' or hanging out. I never wanted it to end. Thank you Elliot. Because of you I always have someone to aspire to! Your teaching was so much more than what was on the page, it was what was in the heart. Love you always Elliot!!!
Edward Finley
May 7, 2012
Elliot Fine (along with Marv Dahlgren) were the true "pair of diddles" when it came to percussion in Minnesota and their influence and teachings were felt by many. It is sad to learn of Mr. Fine's passing but it does bring back many memories of happy times and lessons learned including the value of being a player vs. a pounder. He will be missed and my condolences to his family.
Pete Stiles
May 6, 2012
Elliot Fine was the epitome of teacher. I learned how to play drums over my 8 years with him...but more importantly, he was a mentor as I grew through my entire adolescence. A great drummer, and even greater man. Fond memories will live on.
Eric Nelson
May 6, 2012
Elliot was an absolute legend. I studied with him and he taught me many thing well beyond just drumming. He was a man who truly found his calling. He will be remembered well.
Jay Eldridge
May 6, 2012
My condolences to the family of Elliot Fine. He was a great teacher of drums and life. It seemed that every drummer told me I HAD to take lessons from him. I learned they were right. I remember vividly his fun energy over 20 years later. Looking back he taught me more about life than I realized. Thanks for sharing him with us.
Tom Stierna
May 6, 2012
My condolences to Milo, Susan and family. I am very lucky to have met and taken lessons from such a brilliant and very funny man. I will never forget my time spent with him.
Jamie Riekens
May 6, 2012
I am so saddened by this news. My prayers and thoughts are with you Milo. I will never forget the good times I had with him and the everlasting knowledge he shared with me, both behind the drums and in life. God bless!
Paul Burnett
May 6, 2012
As one of his many students, I also remember the laughter and good cheer that made my lessons enjoyable. My 20 years as a drummer ('63-'83) are never far from me and I count Mr Fine as my first musical friend. Thank you, Mr Fine!
May 6, 2012
Milo and Family,
Many fond memories I have of Elliot and my drum lessons from him. He introduced me to the MPLS. Youth Symphony when I was 12 or so and I remained a playing member for several yrs. on Kettle drums and snare.
He was a true class act!
God bless him and his Family.
Joe Haeg
Winona, MN
Lou Hurvitz
May 6, 2012
I studied with Elliot in the mid 1960s. He was a fine musician and an outstanding teacher. And, he had a terrific sense of humor. There was none better at telling a joke. My lessons in his Northrop Memorial Auditorium studio were punctuated with laughter. He shall be greatly missed. I extend my sympathies to his family.
Jim Wright
May 6, 2012
Mr. Fine was my percussion instructor when I was 14, a man who loved his art.
Thank you Elliot.
Paula & Grant Sorenson
May 6, 2012
Our condolences to the family. Our son was a student of Elliot for a few years. We enjoyed talking with the sweet couple on Sat mornings. Thanks for the memories.
Phil Kjos
May 6, 2012
Dear Milo, Susan, Leo and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time. I studied with Mr. Fine (as I always called him) for about 5 years while in HS at Edina, and into my college years at Normandale CC and the U of MN. Mr. Fine came to many of our concerts and gave the percussionists at NCC the opportunity to premiere his percussion ensemble "Bugaloo Birdie," in Europe, while on a performance tour back in 1973. I cherish my years of knowing and studying with him, and I am so glad that we went out for lunch and brunch in the last few years. Mr. Fine was a great man, a great teacher, and a great friend, who will be missed by all who had the honor to know him.
Craig Olson
May 6, 2012
My sincere condolences Milo, Susan and family. I am grateful I was able to develop a friendship as well as learn so much from him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten
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