Dear Family and Friends, I invite you to share your comments and memories here. My Dad touched so many people's lives. I would be grateful to hear your individual stories. He is now quiet and at peace. Rebecca/Becky
I am so sorry for your loss. Not only do I have fond memories of your dad at SRHS but I think most of my memories are from hearing his wonderful voice at Rodef Sholom for so many years at High Holiday services! He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you and your family.
I was saddened to hear of Mr. Jones' passing just now. Scrolling through the photos here, I was hoping to find one of the choir that I was in at SRHS under his baton. He was such a wonderful, energetic and joyful teacher that I remember with such fondness. I do remember one funny incident when he asked my father to sing something at an event, and he was scheduled to do so as well. Imagine his chagrin when my father got up to sing "Danny Boy," which was exactly the song he was about to sing. He handled it with great aplomb. A wonderful teacher, singer and man! Thank you, Mr. Jones! I'm sure you're bringing beautiful music to the heavenly choirs above!
Becky, I know my folks (Elsie and Dave Krinitsky) will be in deep mourning over the loss of your dad. Byron was such a wonderful friend to them, and a fabulous musical partner. My mom was often his accompanist, and Dave played with him in the "Sewer Band." Not to mention all those years at Rodef Sholom, where they performed for so many congregational High Holy Day services. He had such great universal musical soul as a singer that he moved all of us, Jewish or not! Of course, he was an icon in the music education community of Marin. He touched so many, and will be missed by all. My thoughts are with you and your family. Abby Brody
Sorry for your loss Becky. Byron was always positive, friendly and upbeat, and I always felt supported by him. My dad will be sorry to hear of your loss. Lowell Widmer
Dear Becky, I first met your Dad when he was the choirmaster at the old 1st Presbyterian Church across from the library. I was going to San Pedro Elementary then and just a kid, but he reinforced my love of singing and music from that time on. I now have 12 children and 15 grandchildren who all love to sing and play music....that's part of his legacy. I know this is a very hard time of loss. In this last year I've lost my sweet wife of 30 years and a dear daughter in law. There aren't any words...I know. Will be praying for you and yours...Tripp Curtis
To me Byron was first and foremost a totally professional master teacher and a man any kid could look up to. As someone with a love for music and language and a knack for teaching, he brought it on and we worked hard for him. It was SO MUCH FUN! I know I'm not the only one who thinks of him often...I mean often. How fortunate we are to have had a man like our "Mr. Jones" leading the way!...So long friend...Gary Vogensen SRHS Class of 68"
Byron was at Nazareth House when my mother was there and played the piano every day at 4pm for the seniors in the care center. I tried to visit during that time and saw how he reached even the most disabled residents with his music and dynamic voice. You could see fingers and toes tapping when he played the Irish ballads. I loved "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." I think all of the women had crushes on him. He was quite a guy and I feel lucky to have known him.
I was one of the children in the chorus when Byron sang Casey at the Bat with Arthur Fiedler in San Francisco, and I still remember his performance. Not only was he a terrific soloist, he was kind to the kids.
Byron Jones was a wonderful, positive influence on me in my growing years. Demanding, encouraging, friendly... he's all I continue to aspire to be as a teacher. I remember his (appropriately sentimental) reaction when I played "The March of the Men of Harlech" on the piano at a Middle School concert! -- Greg Hassold, SRHS '75
Dear Rebecca and Byron Jr, Thank you for sharing your dad with all of us - he was so generous with his time and music. Such great memories spanning from singing around the piano at Davidson Middle School to his playing the Welsh Goat Counting Song for my own kids! Have been listening to the Byron Jones By Request tape - I'm so glad we have that to help keep his vibrant spirit in our hearts. love and prayers, Susanna Coder Boeck, SRHS '78
My Uncle Bydee was 22 years old when I was born. I was his first niece and my grandparents’ first grandchild. He reminded me on all of my birthdays and many times in between, that he “took the call” from the hospital at my grandparents’ house in Berkeley when I was born. We lived only about 6 or 7 houses up the street, so my earliest years are filled with wonderful memories of the magical, musical household of the Oliver Joneses.
My mom, Mair, was four years older than my Uncle Bydee. They came from the “Old Country” (Wales) when Mom was 7 and Uncle Bydee was just a toddler. I had several uncles on my dad’s side, but I always considered Uncle Bydee more than an uncle, he was my friend, Two and a half years after I was born, my brother came along and our little branch of the family moved to Richmond, about seven miles from Berkeley. Uncle Bydee was in college then and very busy, but it seemed he was always with us. My dad was in the Navy during WWII and Uncle Bydee returned from service with the Coast Guard sooner than my dad so I have many more early memories of him than I do of my own dad. Our dad, Karl, died at 51, when Phil and I were in our early twenties and then it seemed that Uncle Bydee was not just our uncle and our friend, but also the counselor that our father would have been. Uncle Bydee together with our Dadcu, Oliver, provided us a childhood filled with laughter and music. They are vivid memories that have lasted us all of our lives. It seemed as though the comedy team of “Dadcu and Bydee” existed only for our personal entertainment. When we saw either of them on stage, at times it was hard to remember there was any one else but us watching and listening, just as we had when we were little ones.
Uncle Bydee always treated us as adults. Whatever we had to say was tremendously interesting to him and our childish jokes were always the most hilarious and witty jokes he had ever heard. He always made us feel important. As we grew up, we always knew he was there for us and was interested in what was going on in our lives.
When my mother was diagnosed at 63 with cancer, Uncle Bydee, Phil and I were her team and we all leaned on each other for strength. We were always on the phone to each other and Uncle Bydee was often with mom when we couldn’t be there. Mom had always told us to take care of each other, and this was a time when I realized, more than ever, what that really meant to her and her brother. Mom and Bydee taught us what a loving brother/sister relationship is. I will always be grateful for those lessons and now I know that their loving spirits have and always will be with us as they are with each other.
Rest in peace, Uncle Bydee. Nos da. Cymru am bith!
Rebecca and Byron, I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart is both heavy at the news and grateful to have had your dad as my teacher and mentor. It is because of him that I became a musician. I have so many stories I could share, but my favorite has to be what happened toward the end of my freshman year at SRHS.
Every Friday he would pass out lyric sheets from various musicals and we'd sing the afternoon away. One particular day we were singing "You'll Never Walk Alone." As he accompanied us, he messed up one of the chords and mentioned that he'd never had trouble with it before. I immediately piped up and said, "That's because you're playing the song in Bb. Usually you play it in C. Why did you transpose it?"
Mind you, I was sitting in the alto section but couldn't see the keyboard. He stopped dead in his tracks, looked straight at me and slowly asked, "How did you know that?" I replied that I just knew; I heard it. "Can't anyone else hear that it's not C major anymore?" I asked.
He plunked a key and asked me what it was. I told him. He played another one and asked. I told him. This went on for several minutes, with him playing several notes simultaneously and me naming every one of them accurately. At the time I'd been taking piano lessons for six years and had no idea what perfect pitch was. Well, that day I found out!
From that day on he never lost an opportunity to have me play in class, even teaching me how to accompany warm-ups, and in my junior year I became the choir's accompanist. (I stayed on as A Capella's accompanist five years after I graduated, too!) He took a chance on me when I was a senior and asked me to accompany him and his daughter Rebecca for the 1980 Music Fund concert at 1st Pres Church in San Rafael. I was SCARED TO DEATH, but the concert went well. At the spring concert in my senior year, he gave me a scholarship that he'd named for one of his former students, Parker Lee, I believe. It was a huge surprise and a great honor.
After graduation we stayed in touch, and after his retirement in 1985 I would visit him whenever I came back to Marin, usually over lunch at a nice restaurant. He came to my wedding in '95 and was tickled to meet my new husband, who is also a brass player (trombone) and a Mason. He'd written a poem for me as a wedding gift which hangs proudly in my home.
His legacy definitely lives on in the lives of all those he touched, whether as a teacher, a friend or a family member. To this day I use his warm-ups with my own students, and these last couple of days they have wondered why I would get teary-eyed and smile as they sang "Al Ciel Sol Puo'..."
Godspeed, Mr. Jones, and thank you!
Much love, Nicki Petruzzella Kerns, SRHS class of '80 Boulder Creek, CA
Dadke, I have so many fond memories. Both school choir and the church chorus. I've thought of him many times over the years and am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a wonderful man. Gia Camiccia SRHS 1986
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father this morning. Though I only knew him in the context of a few concerts with you, I had nothing but great impressions. I admire the talent that he had and the ease with which he entered the lives of all in his presence.
The greatest tribute, however, I can make is that he must have done many, many things right which those on the outside don't see, since he created a very charming, endearing daughter. It is true that the acorn rarely falls far from the tree and good results are not randomly distributed. It takes effort to raise children well and your parents clearly put in the effort.
I hope that all the tedious matters created when someone passes away can be resolved easily and that you are left with all the good memories that happened in your life.
Byron taught my daughter to sing and to love music, and we shared many musical theater productions with him. (He also helped me move her off to college and wasn't upset when I cried half the way home!) He was my right arm when it came to working with young students as we staged shows in the 1980s. (I was standing next to him at the piano when the "big one" hit in 1989.) He was always encouraging and cheerful, and yet he could immediately whip the kids into shape with nothing more than a stern look. As everyone has commented, his love of music and life was infectious, and he was extremely generous with his time and his voice. His loss is one shared by hundreds, if not thousands of students who benefited from his teaching, but he will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered with love. Cathi Aradi
Dear Becky, My family, my mum and my sister, Leigh are praying for you and all your family during this sorrowful time. We have such wonderful memories of Byron. My mum, Peggy who is 94 is Byron's 1st cousin from Wales. We enjoyed spending time with Byron in London, in Wales and in San Rafael. We visited Byron in 1969, I was 15 and he took me with him to a wedding. We sat in the balcony and he sang the Lord's Prayer. I will never forget this as he was amazing. I always think of him when I hear the Lord's Prayer sung. After moving from London to Dallas in 1979, I was able to visit Byron on several occasions. We kept in contact through phone calls and Christmas cards. He would always write in Welsh on the cards - Nadolig Llawen, Cariad Byron - Merry Christmas Love, Byron. I am so thankful for this blog about Byron and the memories that have been preserved about the great man that he was. Love and Prayers, Helen
Rebecca and Byron: My heart goes out to you and the Jones family. I never had you Dad as a teacher, probably because I sang like a hinge. But, I had huge respect for him as a teacher, his exceptional talent and zest for life. I have many fond memories of Mr. Jones. He will be missed by many. - John B
I am very sorry for your loss. I met Byron at a First Pres church retreat and we talked about my starting to play the trumpet again after a 30 year layoff. He was very encouraging to me and told me to contact Gwyn Lister about the Corte Madera Town band as he recently had to leave the group to return to directing the First Pres Choir. I started playing in that group. I later helped Byron in trumpet parts at First Pres. I also then joined Byron in the Sewer band. Later still I began to help out in Yesterday's Kids. Byron was a very generous soul and his enthusiasm is already missed by the musicians he played and sang with. Frank K
Byron Jones rescued a lot of students in High School by making "music" a cool place to hang out. Based on his encouragement and his inspirational leadership, students, like myself, joined choirs at SRHS and First Prez church, auditioned for musicals, and even learned how to play bizarre instruments. Byron's love of live and people of all ages made him a guy who could make things happen. He was one of my favorite teachers of all time! My sympathies to Rebecca, Bryon and Jackie. What a guy he was! Nancy Thelen Rehkopf
Byron was my choir master in high school and in the church high school choir. H e was always supportive, positive, and an all around great guy. No matter how badly the high school choir sang Byron always had something positive to say. He taught me music and the love of music. He will be missed by many.
I knew your dad at SRHS, never as a teacher, but just his presence and the joy he brought. Many years later, my tears turned to happiness seeing Mr. Jones again at Nazareth and hearing him perform daily after of admitting my beloved mother there. I know she, too, was blessed by the music and hearing his glorious voice. A great loss to all that he touched.
Your Dad, Mr. Jones, was my first music Teacher in High School. He was a very fun Teacher and made learning to sing a joyful event. His love and passion for music and singing inspired so many and he will always be remembered as a kind, upbeat, positive, generous, fun person. The true spirit of Byron Jones lives on forever within beautiful music played or sung from the heart and soul. I send you and your family love and peace... Leslie Ehrman De Palo
Byron was a good man. I and many others will miss him, and he had a good and long life, bringing a smile and some joy to many. Another part of "Old" San Rafael and Marin has moved on and he is in good company with old friends and family, singing on from that other place where we are all headed eventually, and perhaps, if we listen we can catch some harmonies floating through the clouds. In the meantime, lets keep on singing and bring more light into this madhouse, while we are still here. Keep on singin folks. Sierra George Salin
Such sad news hearing of Byron's passing. Although I did not take lessons from Byron, I certainly knew of him around SRHS as well as through my Mom, who knew him for years. Byron had an enthusiasm for music and life that was infectious. I remember attending church and hearing him sing and watching him lead a beautiful choir that touched everyone. What a gift he shared with all those around him.
Many years ago I asked him if he'd sing at my parents 50th anniversary and of course he did, and my Mom was so surprised....and happy.
Just 2 weeks ago, I lost my Mom and she wanted Amazing Grace sung at her funeral. I immediately thought of Byron, wondering where he was. Now I know where he is.....he's in heaven, singing his heart out and my Mom and many others are right there singing along side of him.
Thank you Byron Jones for sharing who you were with all of us left behind. I can still remember your smile and see the twinkle in your eye. May you rest in peace.
I pray that the comments written by those that knew Byron will bring both joy and peace to his family and friends at this very difficult time. GOD Bless.
I was privileged to have Mr Jones for 4 years in choir. He had a talent for patience. We all loved him, he was so witty and you could hear his booming voice no matter where you were in school. My greatest memory was him teaching us Handles Messiah. We would sing this during the Christmas Holiday program. He touched so many of our lives and was responsible for the development of many of his students. RIP Mr Jones, you will be remembered. Linda Robello Welsh- class of '59
To Byron's family, and fellow alumni: Byron Jones was not only a great musician and educator, he also cared deeply about each student's life. Definitely mine.
Having been somewhat sheltered at private school, I was wide open when I arrived at Davidson Middle School in 6th grade. In the midst of a whole new world of influences... many of them bad, I didn't realize that there was a humble "guardian angel maestro" waiting to help guide me. And he did.
Approaching middle school, I looked forward to choir with Mr Jones, as I remember my older brother Tom practicing various baritone parts to Bach oratorio and other songs around the house.
I remember Byron picking me and another student up at Prospect and Lincoln Ave in his AMC Gremlin for a ride to the 7:00 AM class at Davidson. During the next six years I was introduced to a wide variety of vocal genre; from musical theater, to folk, to spirituals, and of course, classical. The love of choral music stays with me and my family to this day, thanks in great part to Byron Jones.
I remember Mr. Jones taking a personal interest in each students personal life, and telling the truth when it was needed. When a student was behaving inappropriately, he lovingly admonished. When I personally was straying off the path, he would speak in metaphors while driving me home, not coming straight across with advice, but making me think about it, leading me gently to finding the answer on my own. Very wise.
Byron was a true Christian. In a way, I think he found great joy in being able to introduce Sacred music to young people in a non-sectarian environment. Perhaps, in this process shedding a little piece of God's Love into our hearts through the glorious notes in these great anthems as we sang them.
I don't know for sure if there is truth in my ramblings, but I do know that Byron Jones made a difference in my life. I also know, without a doubt, that the Heavenly choir's baritone section shines brighter now that Byron Jones is in it's ranks! Well done Byron... and thank you!
We all loved your dad so much. My dad Louis, sang in his church choir for probably 30 years. Byron sang at dads memorial service.
I remember when he spoke my name he would sing it like "O'lear'i" like an Italian Opera Baritone! Then he would wink at me and say, "What a guy!"
I remember singing Messiah with him, and Xmas carols with the choir.
I imagine it must have been wonderful to have him for a father. I thoroughly enjoyed the internet blogs and listening to him sing songs I had never heard before. I loved the pictures too.
I called him on the telephone about 6 months ago and we had a wonderful conversation. He said he still sang everyday at the home where he lived.
I told him I am now singing in a barbershop harmony chorus and he was thrilled to hear that. Please visit devilmountainchorus.org.
Byron, I hope to see you again soon. I am living in Walnut Creek, and can drive over to San Rafael when you are in the area. Give me a call 925-286-4600.
Mom is still alive and is 96. Anyway, Byron brought a lot of joy to a lot of people. His choir was one of the few classes I actually liked going to in high school. Thank you so much for putting together this tribute to him.
Byron had a way about him, a personality, he could be incredibly outgoing, bold, assertive, loud and brash, and yet remain humble, no self-consciousness and seemingly only concerned about bringing joy to the people around him through his voice and personality. That is the way I saw him. Thanks for sharing your wonderful dad with the world and including our family in yours.
I am saddened to hear of the loss of a fantastic teacher who took so many under his wing to teach many the value of music. I will never forget him. During my years with him in high school he gave me the chance to enjoy the musicals which we played and the favorite "Oh Danny Boy" which he sang often. There was always a soft spot in my heart for such a wonderful teacher who made school so enjoyable. He will be remembered as a jewel that never grew old. Jo-Ann Carroll White '62
I did not know Byron except for our interactions in the Rodef Shalom High Holy Days choir, and through the loving words of his daughter, my first voice teacher, Rebecca. I was in the alto section, so I stood right in front of him for the services, and being surrounded by his voice always felt like a warm hug. He was very kind to me, as it was my first experience with choral singing and I was nervous about holding harmony. His beautiful energy and voice will be missed.
Entering middle school, approaching puberty, being male, age 12 or 13 – this is a stressful time of life, no matter what era you are born into. For me, coming up in the early ‘70s, it was a time where I did not know who I was or who I wanted to become – or whether I was capable of becoming that person. Byron helped me to conquer these unknowns and the fears that come with growing up. In the choir at the First Presbyterian Church, I learned for the first time about discipline, commitment, and teamwork (it certainly was not about religion for me in any shape or form). The discipline to get up early in the morning to go to practice before school. The commitment to learn my parts and improve my performance each week – to “show up”. The skill of being a member of a team that can only function when everyone plays their part in harmony. Byron taught us all of these things. Other teachers tried to teach these things and failed. But Byron knew how to motivate us kids. At its core, his approach was based on mutual respect: He respected us, as unformed as we were, and he demanded respect in return. This approach was sorely lacking in many other teachers of the day.
Most of all, he instilled a belief that, yes, each of us was capable of becoming whatever person we wanted to be, providing a great sense of confidence at an age when we needed it desperately.
I went on to join the SRHS choir and the A Capella group, and I consider myself privileged to have been a part of Byron’s team and to have been his friend for the six years that I was in school with him. To the end, the mutual respect was strong, and he sent me off after graduation knowing that I could take on any challenge that I wanted to.
I have thought of him regularly over the years and I never had the opportunity to express my gratitude to him. He is missed, but he will be with me always in spirit.
I cherish the first time I met Mr. Jones. My Sophmore year I got up the nerve to audition for chorus. I had no experience and don’t remember much except being extremely nervous and singing as quiet as a mouse and being very shy. I do remember how kind Mr. Jones was and his saying my singing voice was nice and I should take lessons then come back and talk with him about joining the choir. I took his advice and it changed my life. He was truly an inspiration and an amazing teacher! About a year ago I heard that he was ill and I went to visit him at the retirement home where he lived. I was surprised to see that he was on the activity calendar to play the piano at 4:00 p.m. I was shocked when it was 3:45 p.m. and he said that he had to go because he was due to play the piano. I always knew, but finally realized then, how important music and entertaining people was to him. As an Activity Director I have witnessed Byron entertain everyone where I work and I whole heartedly join my colleague Julie Cervetto in saying that Byron truly did put his heart and soul into entertaining. Infact music, entertaining, teaching and bringing joy and inspiration to others was his bread and water.
In 1988 SRHS celebrated it’s 100th Anniversary and they had a night of the stars featuring faculty and graduates in the performing arts. Becky sang and danced but we needed someone to sing the SRHS song. The curtains slowly opened to the powerful baritone voice of Mr. Jones singing, “By the shores of San Francisco Bay. . .” There are so many memories, the Friday lyric sheets that classmate Nicki Petruzzella mentioned and everyone getting to sing a solo, his coaching all of us on the songs for South Pacific, the music theory class when he opened the world of reading music to me, the Mass musical scores he taught us (especially Vivaldi’s Gloria) that will last me a lifetime, the nicks on the choir room floor from the piano he patiently, yet strongly played constantly, his before choir chats updating us on his family, especially his son, daughter and grandchildren and his tribute to Wales by singing “All Through the Night.” Mr. Jones’ support and inspiration lasted long after graduation for me because for many years I taught music in several schools in Marin County, playing on some of the same pianos he did. He would attend many of my performances and when I would see Mr. Jones around town he would ask me how I was doing but he would also always ask about my family, by name.
My heart goes out to both of you and your family. Please know that the love for Byron and his legacy will live on in all of us who he taught and the people he entertained and shared his many gifts with, especially music.
“Rydym ni'n eich caru chi” (“We love you” in Welsh) Gina Pandiani, Class of 1980
Dear Becky and Byron, I remember you as kids. When your family and mine lived on Fair Dr. in San Rafael I was the 'baby sitter'. I felt so privileged to be able to do that. You 2 were really cute and sweet. I loved reading to you, and, you never got up to try to stay up longer. ;-D I was in the orchestra with Mr. Rinaldi and didn't have the time to do choir too. I really wanted to be in your dad's class. The other problem was that I was afraid to sing. Now I love to. I graduated SRHS in '62 and went on with my cello in college. I have often thought of your family with fondness. I am saddened for the loss in this world of your dad, but glad for his gift to the world. Kay Bray, now Kay B. Focke
I was lucky enough to be in the choir and feel the magic of what it was like to be in his class; it was full of passion and love for music. It was more than that for me though because young Becky and Byron were my friends. My fondest memory of Mr. Jones was when I played Anita in WEST SIDE STORY and I got to work at the piano with him and learn my songs. When I got it right he would be so animated you'd think I just scored a touchdown. Byron's passion for music was infectious whether he was singing with his beautiful voice, playing the piano or teaching, and we were the lucky ones who got to come along for the ride. I saw him two years ago and he told me about his singing 'gigs' that he still did at various senior homes. He was still passionate about the music as well as being Welsh, which I am, and he always liked that. He spoke about sports, another passion. He inspired me when I was 16 and I think that I learned from him that whatever you do in life, do it with passion. His was a life well lived. Keep singing MR. JONES, THAT CHOIR IN HEAVEN is just about to get a lot better.
I never had Byron as a teacher as I could not sing, but was in Orchestra and Band. I enjoyed participating in the Musicals he and Hugo put together. My first time hearing him sing was when he sang WATER, clear cool water. I also remember when you were a cheerleader at the football games. this is dating us. Your Dad will be missed. Carolyn Lang Hormell class '55
I was in Mr. Jones' a capella class at SRHS for four years. I'll never forget how kind and encouraging he was, and how his personality filled the entire choir room! 'Brigadoon', 'South Pacific', 'Oklahoma', what memories! Not to forget learning how to sing 'The Hallelujah Chorus'. That was special. I only saw Mr. Jones twice after high school: once at the Marin Veterans Auditorium, in 1972; and in about 1994, performing with Rebecca (at the restaurant that is now Jason's). He was always very kind and welcoming. He even remembered me!
I studied with Byron starting at Davidson and then at SRH. Class of 78. My parents loved him so much they sent me to SR High so that I could sing in his acapella choir. Whenever I reminesce about singing in his choir and doing 2 musicals I feel I have been dealt a good deck of cards.
Mr. Jones came and performed at the senior assisted living residence where my mother lived every week. My mother loved music and would sit in her wheelchair transfixed by his voice and piano. He took many of her suggestions for songs to sing and would sing them with gusto for her. It just warmed my mother's heart. I would always make sure to be there with her when Mr. Jones would come to play. I have very fond memories of sitting next to my mother's wheelchair holding hands with her while he sang his beautiful songs. So heartwarming, So fulfilling to mom's spirit. I was so impressed with him that even tho he himself was getting up in age-he still came out to share his gift with his fellow seniors.
i was in choir in 57 58 srhs. byron had me play piano for choir warmup had to play in all the keys , then sing a fats domino song,every day. signed john allair
John, I tried to contact you before the Life Celebration. Used a website I thought was you but the response was that I got the wrong guy. I'm sorry to have missed you. Thank you for being a good friend to my father. He was very proud of you.
We were your neighbors on The Hill in San Rafael. Mr. Jones also taught my brother trumpet at Coleman Elementary, and was my choir teacher at Davidson Middle School, and later was a familiar figure at SRHS and "the neighborhood". I still remember the harmonies to some of our songs, and the varied repertoire that he introduced us students to...I was very fortunate to have been blessed by Mr. Jones's inspiring love of music. The Celebration today was so moving, the final inclusive choir song was a fitting crescendo to a remarkable man's life.
Byron's first day was my first day . . . my first choir rehearsal at First Presbyterian was his first choir rehearsal there. That was the beginning of decades of making awesome music together. What a blessing!.
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Dear Family and Friends, I invite you to share your comments and memories here. My Dad touched so many people's lives. I would be grateful to hear your individual stories. He is now quiet and at peace. Rebecca/Becky
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss. Not only do I have fond memories of your dad at SRHS but I think most of my memories are from hearing his wonderful voice at Rodef Sholom for so many years at High Holiday services! He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteSue (Cohn)
I was saddened to hear of Mr. Jones' passing just now. Scrolling through the photos here, I was hoping to find one of the choir that I was in at SRHS under his baton. He was such a wonderful, energetic and joyful teacher that I remember with such fondness. I do remember one funny incident when he asked my father to sing something at an event, and he was scheduled to do so as well. Imagine his chagrin when my father got up to sing "Danny Boy," which was exactly the song he was about to sing. He handled it with great aplomb. A wonderful teacher, singer and man! Thank you, Mr. Jones! I'm sure you're bringing beautiful music to the heavenly choirs above!
ReplyDeleteBecky, I know my folks (Elsie and Dave Krinitsky) will be in deep mourning over the loss of your dad. Byron was such a wonderful friend to them, and a fabulous musical partner. My mom was often his accompanist, and Dave played with him in the "Sewer Band." Not to mention all those years at Rodef Sholom, where they performed for so many congregational High Holy Day services. He had such great universal musical soul as a singer that he moved all of us, Jewish or not! Of course, he was an icon in the music education community of Marin. He touched so many, and will be missed by all. My thoughts are with you and your family. Abby Brody
ReplyDeleteSorry for your loss Becky. Byron was always positive, friendly and upbeat, and I always felt supported by him. My dad will be sorry to hear of your loss.
ReplyDeleteLowell Widmer
Dear Becky, I first met your Dad when he was the choirmaster at the old 1st Presbyterian Church across from the library. I was going to San Pedro Elementary then and just a kid, but he reinforced my love of singing and music from that time on. I now have 12 children and 15 grandchildren who all love to sing and play music....that's part of his legacy. I know this is a very hard time of loss. In this last year I've lost my sweet wife of 30 years and a dear daughter in law. There aren't any words...I know. Will be praying for you and yours...Tripp Curtis
ReplyDeleteTo me Byron was first and foremost a totally professional master teacher and a man any kid could look up to. As someone with a love for music and language and a knack for teaching, he brought it on and we worked hard for him. It was SO MUCH FUN! I know I'm not the only one who thinks of him often...I mean often. How fortunate we are to have had a man like our "Mr. Jones" leading the way!...So long friend...Gary Vogensen SRHS Class of 68"
ReplyDeleteByron was at Nazareth House when my mother was there and played the piano every day at 4pm for the seniors in the care center. I tried to visit during that time and saw how he reached even the most disabled residents with his music and dynamic voice. You could see fingers and toes tapping when he played the Irish ballads. I loved "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." I think all of the women had crushes on him. He was quite a guy and I feel lucky to have known him.
ReplyDeleteI was one of the children in the chorus when Byron sang Casey at the Bat with Arthur Fiedler in San Francisco, and I still remember his performance. Not only was he a terrific soloist, he was kind to the kids.
ReplyDeleteLiz Engan
Byron Jones was a wonderful, positive influence on me in my growing years. Demanding, encouraging, friendly... he's all I continue to aspire to be as a teacher. I remember his (appropriately sentimental) reaction when I played "The March of the Men of Harlech" on the piano at a Middle School concert! -- Greg Hassold, SRHS '75
ReplyDeleteDear Rebecca and Byron Jr,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your dad with all of us - he was so generous with his time and music. Such great memories spanning from singing around the piano at Davidson Middle School to his playing the Welsh Goat Counting Song for my own kids! Have been listening to the Byron Jones By Request tape - I'm so glad we have that to help keep his vibrant spirit in our hearts. love and prayers, Susanna Coder Boeck, SRHS '78
My Uncle Bydee was 22 years old when I was born. I was his first niece and my grandparents’ first grandchild. He reminded me on all of my birthdays and many times in between, that he “took the call” from the hospital at my grandparents’ house in Berkeley when I was born. We lived only about 6 or 7 houses up the street, so my earliest years are filled with wonderful memories of the magical, musical household of the Oliver Joneses.
ReplyDeleteMy mom, Mair, was four years older than my Uncle Bydee. They came from the “Old Country” (Wales) when Mom was 7 and Uncle Bydee was just a toddler. I had several uncles on my dad’s side, but I always considered Uncle Bydee more than an uncle, he was my friend, Two and a half years after I was born, my brother came along and our little branch of the family moved to Richmond, about seven miles from Berkeley. Uncle Bydee was in college then and very busy, but it seemed he was always with us. My dad was in the Navy during WWII and Uncle Bydee returned from service with the Coast Guard sooner than my dad so I have many more early memories of him than I do of my own dad. Our dad, Karl, died at 51, when Phil and I were in our early twenties and then it seemed that Uncle Bydee was not just our uncle and our friend, but also the counselor that our father would have been. Uncle Bydee together with our Dadcu, Oliver, provided us a childhood filled with laughter and music. They are vivid memories that have lasted us all of our lives. It seemed as though the comedy team of “Dadcu and Bydee” existed only for our personal entertainment. When we saw either of them on stage, at times it was hard to remember there was any one else but us watching and listening, just as we had when we were little ones.
Uncle Bydee always treated us as adults. Whatever we had to say was tremendously interesting to him and our childish jokes were always the most hilarious and witty jokes he had ever heard. He always made us feel important. As we grew up, we always knew he was there for us and was interested in what was going on in our lives.
When my mother was diagnosed at 63 with cancer, Uncle Bydee, Phil and I were her team and we all leaned on each other for strength. We were always on the phone to each other and Uncle Bydee was often with mom when we couldn’t be there. Mom had always told us to take care of each other, and this was a time when I realized, more than ever, what that really meant to her and her brother. Mom and Bydee taught us what a loving brother/sister relationship is. I will always be grateful for those lessons and now I know that their loving spirits have and always will be with us as they are with each other.
Rest in peace, Uncle Bydee. Nos da. Cymru am bith!
Glenys Anderson
Rebecca and Byron, I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart is both heavy at the news and grateful to have had your dad as my teacher and mentor. It is because of him that I became a musician. I have so many stories I could share, but my favorite has to be what happened toward the end of my freshman year at SRHS.
ReplyDeleteEvery Friday he would pass out lyric sheets from various musicals and we'd sing the afternoon away. One particular day we were singing "You'll Never Walk Alone." As he accompanied us, he messed up one of the chords and mentioned that he'd never had trouble with it before. I immediately piped up and said, "That's because you're playing the song in Bb. Usually you play it in C. Why did you transpose it?"
Mind you, I was sitting in the alto section but couldn't see the keyboard. He stopped dead in his tracks, looked straight at me and slowly asked, "How did you know that?" I replied that I just knew; I heard it. "Can't anyone else hear that it's not C major anymore?" I asked.
He plunked a key and asked me what it was. I told him. He played another one and asked. I told him. This went on for several minutes, with him playing several notes simultaneously and me naming every one of them accurately. At the time I'd been taking piano lessons for six years and had no idea what perfect pitch was. Well, that day I found out!
From that day on he never lost an opportunity to have me play in class, even teaching me how to accompany warm-ups, and in my junior year I became the choir's accompanist. (I stayed on as A Capella's accompanist five years after I graduated, too!) He took a chance on me when I was a senior and asked me to accompany him and his daughter Rebecca for the 1980 Music Fund concert at 1st Pres Church in San Rafael. I was SCARED TO DEATH, but the concert went well. At the spring concert in my senior year, he gave me a scholarship that he'd named for one of his former students, Parker Lee, I believe. It was a huge surprise and a great honor.
After graduation we stayed in touch, and after his retirement in 1985 I would visit him whenever I came back to Marin, usually over lunch at a nice restaurant. He came to my wedding in '95 and was tickled to meet my new husband, who is also a brass player (trombone) and a Mason. He'd written a poem for me as a wedding gift which hangs proudly in my home.
His legacy definitely lives on in the lives of all those he touched, whether as a teacher, a friend or a family member. To this day I use his warm-ups with my own students, and these last couple of days they have wondered why I would get teary-eyed and smile as they sang "Al Ciel Sol Puo'..."
Godspeed, Mr. Jones, and thank you!
Much love,
Nicki Petruzzella Kerns, SRHS class of '80
Boulder Creek, CA
Dadke,
ReplyDeleteI have so many fond memories. Both school choir and the church chorus. I've thought of him many times over the years and am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a wonderful man.
Gia Camiccia
SRHS 1986
Dear Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father this morning.
Though I only knew him in the context of a few concerts with you, I had nothing but great impressions. I admire the talent that he had and the ease with which he entered the lives of all in his presence.
The greatest tribute, however, I can make is that he must have done many, many things right which those on the outside don't see, since he created a very charming, endearing daughter. It is true that the acorn rarely falls far from the tree and good results are not randomly distributed. It takes effort to raise children well and your parents clearly put in the effort.
I hope that all the tedious matters created when someone passes away can be resolved easily and that you are left with all the good memories that happened in your life.
Love,
Fred, Corliss, and Ariel
Byron taught my daughter to sing and to love music, and we shared many musical theater productions with him. (He also helped me move her off to college and wasn't upset when I cried half the way home!) He was my right arm when it came to working with young students as we staged shows in the 1980s. (I was standing next to him at the piano when the "big one" hit in 1989.) He was always encouraging and cheerful, and yet he could immediately whip the kids into shape with nothing more than a stern look. As everyone has commented, his love of music and life was infectious, and he was extremely generous with his time and his voice. His loss is one shared by hundreds, if not thousands of students who benefited from his teaching, but he will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered with love.
ReplyDeleteCathi Aradi
Dear Becky,
ReplyDeleteMy family, my mum and my sister, Leigh are praying for you and all your family during this sorrowful time. We have such wonderful memories of Byron. My mum, Peggy who is 94 is Byron's 1st cousin from Wales. We enjoyed spending time with Byron in London, in Wales and in San Rafael. We visited Byron in 1969, I was 15 and he took me with him to a wedding. We sat in the balcony and he sang the Lord's Prayer. I will never forget this as he was amazing. I always think of him when I hear the Lord's Prayer sung. After moving from London to Dallas in 1979, I was able to visit Byron on several occasions. We kept in contact through phone calls and Christmas cards. He would always write in Welsh on the cards - Nadolig Llawen, Cariad Byron - Merry Christmas Love, Byron. I am so thankful for this blog about Byron and the memories that have been preserved about the great man that he was.
Love and Prayers,
Helen
Rebecca and Byron: My heart goes out to you and the Jones family. I never had you Dad as a teacher, probably because I sang like a hinge. But, I had huge respect for him as a teacher, his exceptional talent and zest for life. I have many fond memories of Mr. Jones. He will be missed by many. - John B
ReplyDeleteRebecca and Byron,
ReplyDeleteI am very sorry for your loss. I met Byron at a First Pres church retreat and we talked about my starting to play the trumpet again after a 30 year layoff. He was very encouraging to me and told me to contact Gwyn Lister about the Corte Madera Town band as he recently had to leave the group to return to directing the First Pres Choir. I started playing in that group. I later helped Byron in trumpet parts at First Pres. I also then joined Byron in the Sewer band. Later still I began to help out in Yesterday's Kids. Byron was a very generous soul and his enthusiasm is already missed by the musicians he played and sang with. Frank K
Byron Jones rescued a lot of students in High School by making "music" a cool place to hang out. Based on his encouragement and his inspirational leadership, students, like myself, joined choirs at SRHS and First Prez church, auditioned for musicals, and even learned how to play bizarre instruments. Byron's love of live and people of all ages made him a guy who could make things happen. He was one of my favorite teachers of all time! My sympathies to Rebecca, Bryon and Jackie. What a guy he was!
ReplyDeleteNancy Thelen Rehkopf
A poem my mother, Jacqueline Jones wrote in the 60's when listening to my father sing:
ReplyDeleteWhat gift has God bestowed
This voice of warmth and wonder
A jeweled ring of sound.
In our silence we hear the splendor
which carries us to new dimensions of being and dying.
Our hearts are bursting
with vibrations of brilliance
halting our hushed breathing.
The sound ceases, the air is stilled.
Our souls return to now - renewed.
-posted by Rebecca
Byron was my choir master in high school and in the church high school choir. H e was always supportive, positive, and an all around great guy. No matter how badly the high school choir sang Byron always had something positive to say. He taught me music and the love of music. He will be missed by many.
ReplyDeleteI knew your dad at SRHS, never as a teacher, but just his presence and the joy he brought. Many years later, my tears turned to happiness seeing Mr. Jones again at Nazareth and hearing him perform daily after of admitting my beloved mother there. I know she, too, was blessed by the music and hearing his glorious voice. A great loss to all that he touched.
ReplyDeleteDear Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteYour Dad, Mr. Jones, was my first music Teacher in High School. He was a very fun Teacher and made learning to sing a joyful event. His love and passion for music and singing inspired so many and he will always be remembered as a kind, upbeat, positive, generous, fun person. The true spirit of Byron Jones lives on forever within beautiful music played or sung from the heart and soul. I send you and your family love and peace... Leslie Ehrman De Palo
Byron was a good man. I and many others will miss him, and he had a good and long life, bringing a smile and some joy to many.
ReplyDeleteAnother part of "Old" San Rafael and Marin has moved on and he is in good company with old friends and family, singing on from that other place where we are all headed eventually, and perhaps, if we listen we can catch some harmonies floating through the clouds.
In the meantime, lets keep on singing and bring more light into this madhouse, while we are still here.
Keep on singin folks.
Sierra George Salin
Dear Jackie, Rebecca & Byron,
ReplyDeleteSuch sad news hearing of Byron's passing. Although I did not take lessons from Byron, I certainly knew of him around SRHS as well as through my Mom, who knew him for years. Byron had an enthusiasm for music and life that was infectious. I remember attending church and hearing him sing and watching him lead a beautiful choir that touched everyone. What a gift he shared with all those around him.
Many years ago I asked him if he'd sing at my parents 50th anniversary and of course he did, and my Mom was so surprised....and happy.
Just 2 weeks ago, I lost my Mom and she wanted Amazing Grace sung at her funeral. I immediately thought of Byron, wondering where he was. Now I know where he is.....he's in heaven, singing his heart out and my Mom and many others are right there singing along side of him.
Thank you Byron Jones for sharing who you were with all of us left behind. I can still remember your smile and see the twinkle in your eye. May you rest in peace.
I pray that the comments written by those that knew Byron will bring both joy and peace to his family and friends at this very difficult time. GOD Bless.
Allison Frasier
I was privileged to have Mr Jones for 4 years in choir. He had a talent for patience. We all loved him, he was so witty and you could hear his booming voice no matter where you were in school.
ReplyDeleteMy greatest memory was him teaching us Handles Messiah. We would sing this during the Christmas Holiday program. He touched so many of our lives and was responsible for the development of many of his students.
RIP Mr Jones, you will be remembered.
Linda Robello Welsh- class of '59
To Byron's family, and fellow alumni: Byron Jones was not only a great musician and educator, he also cared deeply about each student's life. Definitely mine.
ReplyDeleteHaving been somewhat sheltered at private school, I was wide open when I arrived at Davidson Middle School in 6th grade. In the midst of a whole new world of influences... many of them bad, I didn't realize that there was a humble "guardian angel maestro" waiting to help guide me. And he did.
Approaching middle school, I looked forward to choir with Mr Jones, as I remember my older brother Tom practicing various baritone parts to Bach oratorio and other songs around the house.
I remember Byron picking me and another student up at Prospect and Lincoln Ave in his AMC Gremlin for a ride to the 7:00 AM class at Davidson. During the next six years I was introduced to a wide variety of vocal genre; from musical theater, to folk, to spirituals, and of course, classical. The love of choral music stays with me and my family to this day, thanks in great part to Byron Jones.
I remember Mr. Jones taking a personal interest in each students personal life, and telling the truth when it was needed. When a student was behaving inappropriately, he lovingly admonished. When I personally was straying off the path, he would speak in metaphors while driving me home, not coming straight across with advice, but making me think about it, leading me gently to finding the answer on my own. Very wise.
Byron was a true Christian. In a way, I think he found great joy in being able to introduce Sacred music to young people in a non-sectarian environment. Perhaps, in this process shedding a little piece of God's Love into our hearts through the glorious notes in these great anthems as we sang them.
I don't know for sure if there is truth in my ramblings, but I do know that Byron Jones made a difference in my life. I also know, without a doubt, that the Heavenly choir's baritone section shines brighter now that Byron Jones is in it's ranks! Well done Byron... and thank you!
Jim Brannan
Dear Becky, Jackie and Byron,
ReplyDeleteWe all loved your dad so much. My dad Louis, sang in his church choir for probably 30 years. Byron sang at dads memorial service.
I remember when he spoke my name he would sing it like "O'lear'i" like an Italian Opera Baritone! Then he would wink at me and say,
"What a guy!"
I remember singing Messiah with him, and Xmas carols with the choir.
I imagine it must have been wonderful to have him for a father. I thoroughly enjoyed the internet blogs and listening to him sing songs I had never heard before. I loved the pictures too.
I called him on the telephone about 6 months ago and we had a wonderful conversation. He said he still sang everyday at the home where he lived.
I told him I am now singing in a barbershop harmony chorus and he was thrilled to hear that. Please visit devilmountainchorus.org.
Byron, I hope to see you again soon. I am living in Walnut Creek, and can drive over to San Rafael when you are in the area. Give me a call 925-286-4600.
Mom is still alive and is 96. Anyway, Byron brought a lot of joy to a lot of people. His choir was one of the few classes I actually liked going to in high school. Thank you so much for putting together this tribute to him.
Byron had a way about him, a personality, he could be incredibly outgoing, bold, assertive, loud and brash, and yet remain humble, no self-consciousness and seemingly only concerned about bringing joy to the people around him through his voice and personality. That is the way I saw him. Thanks for sharing your wonderful dad with the world and including our family in yours.
Ted Oleari
I am saddened to hear of the loss of a fantastic teacher who took so many under his wing to teach many the value of music.
DeleteI will never forget him. During my years with him in high school he gave me the chance to enjoy the musicals which we played and the favorite "Oh Danny Boy" which he sang often. There was always a soft spot in my heart for such a wonderful teacher who made school so enjoyable.
He will be remembered as a jewel that never grew old.
Jo-Ann Carroll White '62
I did not know Byron except for our interactions in the Rodef Shalom High Holy Days choir, and through the loving words of his daughter, my first voice teacher, Rebecca. I was in the alto section, so I stood right in front of him for the services, and being surrounded by his voice always felt like a warm hug. He was very kind to me, as it was my first experience with choral singing and I was nervous about holding harmony. His beautiful energy and voice will be missed.
ReplyDeleteEntering middle school, approaching puberty, being male, age 12 or 13 – this is a stressful time of life, no matter what era you are born into. For me, coming up in the early ‘70s, it was a time where I did not know who I was or who I wanted to become – or whether I was capable of becoming that person. Byron helped me to conquer these unknowns and the fears that come with growing up. In the choir at the First Presbyterian Church, I learned for the first time about discipline, commitment, and teamwork (it certainly was not about religion for me in any shape or form). The discipline to get up early in the morning to go to practice before school. The commitment to learn my parts and improve my performance each week – to “show up”. The skill of being a member of a team that can only function when everyone plays their part in harmony. Byron taught us all of these things. Other teachers tried to teach these things and failed. But Byron knew how to motivate us kids. At its core, his approach was based on mutual respect: He respected us, as unformed as we were, and he demanded respect in return. This approach was sorely lacking in many other teachers of the day.
ReplyDeleteMost of all, he instilled a belief that, yes, each of us was capable of becoming whatever person we wanted to be, providing a great sense of confidence at an age when we needed it desperately.
I went on to join the SRHS choir and the A Capella group, and I consider myself privileged to have been a part of Byron’s team and to have been his friend for the six years that I was in school with him. To the end, the mutual respect was strong, and he sent me off after graduation knowing that I could take on any challenge that I wanted to.
I have thought of him regularly over the years and I never had the opportunity to express my gratitude to him. He is missed, but he will be with me always in spirit.
Max Thelen
Coleman, Davidson, SRHS Class of '79
Dear Becky and Byron,
ReplyDeleteI cherish the first time I met Mr. Jones. My Sophmore year I got up the nerve to audition for chorus. I had no experience and don’t remember much except being extremely nervous and singing as quiet as a mouse and being very shy. I do remember how kind Mr. Jones was and his saying my singing voice was nice and I should take lessons then come back and talk with him about joining the choir. I took his advice and it changed my life. He was truly an inspiration and an amazing teacher! About a year ago I heard that he was ill and I went to visit him at the retirement home where he lived. I was surprised to see that he was on the activity calendar to play the piano at 4:00 p.m. I was shocked when it was 3:45 p.m. and he said that he had to go because he was due to play the piano. I always knew, but finally realized then, how important music and entertaining people was to him. As an Activity Director I have witnessed Byron entertain everyone where I work and I whole heartedly join my colleague Julie Cervetto in saying that Byron truly did put his heart and soul into entertaining. Infact music, entertaining, teaching and bringing joy and inspiration to others was his bread and water.
In 1988 SRHS celebrated it’s 100th Anniversary and they had a night of the stars featuring faculty and graduates in the performing arts. Becky sang and danced but we needed someone to sing the SRHS song. The curtains slowly opened to the powerful baritone voice of Mr. Jones singing, “By the shores of San Francisco Bay. . .” There are so many memories, the Friday lyric sheets that classmate Nicki Petruzzella mentioned and everyone getting to sing a solo, his coaching all of us on the songs for South Pacific, the music theory class when he opened the world of reading music to me, the Mass musical scores he taught us (especially Vivaldi’s Gloria) that will last me a lifetime, the nicks on the choir room floor from the piano he patiently, yet strongly played constantly, his before choir chats updating us on his family, especially his son, daughter and grandchildren and his tribute to Wales by singing “All Through the Night.” Mr. Jones’ support and inspiration lasted long after graduation for me because for many years I taught music in several schools in Marin County, playing on some of the same pianos he did. He would attend many of my performances and when I would see Mr. Jones around town he would ask me how I was doing but he would also always ask about my family, by name.
My heart goes out to both of you and your family. Please know that the love for Byron and his legacy will live on in all of us who he taught and the people he entertained and shared his many gifts with, especially music.
“Rydym ni'n eich caru chi” (“We love you” in Welsh)
Gina Pandiani, Class of 1980
Dear Becky and Byron, I remember you as kids. When your family and mine lived on Fair Dr. in San Rafael I was the 'baby sitter'. I felt so privileged to be able to do that. You 2 were really cute and sweet. I loved reading to you, and, you never got up to try to stay up longer. ;-D I was in the orchestra with Mr. Rinaldi and didn't have the time to do choir too. I really wanted to be in your dad's class. The other problem was that I was afraid to sing. Now I love to. I graduated SRHS in '62 and went on with my cello in college. I have often thought of your family with fondness. I am saddened for the loss in this world of your dad, but glad for his gift to the world.
ReplyDeleteKay Bray, now Kay B. Focke
I was lucky enough to be in the choir and feel the magic of what it was like
ReplyDeleteto be in his class; it was full of passion and love for music. It was more
than that for me though because young Becky and Byron were my friends. My fondest memory of
Mr. Jones was when I played Anita in WEST SIDE STORY and I got to work at
the piano with him and learn my songs. When I got it right he would be so
animated you'd think I just scored a touchdown. Byron's passion for music
was infectious whether he was singing with his beautiful voice, playing the
piano or teaching, and we were the lucky ones who got to come along for the
ride. I saw him two years ago and he told me about his singing 'gigs' that
he still did at various senior homes. He was still passionate about the
music as well as being Welsh, which I am, and he always liked that. He spoke
about sports, another passion. He inspired me when I was 16 and I think that
I learned from him that whatever you do in life, do it with passion. His was
a life well lived. Keep singing MR. JONES, THAT CHOIR IN HEAVEN is just
about to get a lot better.
Debbie Williams
Class of '71
I never had Byron as a teacher as I could not sing, but was in Orchestra and Band. I enjoyed participating in the Musicals he and Hugo put together. My first time hearing him sing was when he sang WATER, clear cool water. I also remember when you were a cheerleader at the football games. this is dating us. Your Dad will be missed. Carolyn Lang Hormell class '55
ReplyDeleteI was in Mr. Jones' a capella class at SRHS for four years. I'll never forget how kind and encouraging he was, and how his personality filled the entire choir room!
ReplyDelete'Brigadoon', 'South Pacific', 'Oklahoma', what memories! Not to forget learning how to sing 'The Hallelujah Chorus'. That was special.
I only saw Mr. Jones twice after high school: once at the Marin Veterans Auditorium, in 1972; and in about 1994, performing with Rebecca (at the restaurant that is now Jason's). He was always very kind and welcoming.
He even remembered me!
Hal Whitmore
Class of 1963
I studied with Byron starting at Davidson and then at SRH. Class of 78. My parents loved him so much they sent me to SR High so that I could sing in his acapella choir. Whenever I reminesce about singing in his choir and doing 2 musicals I feel I have been dealt a good deck of cards.
ReplyDeleteThomas Brannan
Mr. Jones came and performed at the senior assisted living residence where my mother lived every week. My mother loved music and would sit in her wheelchair transfixed by his voice and piano. He took many of her suggestions for songs to sing and would sing them with gusto for her. It just warmed my mother's heart. I would always make sure to be there with her when Mr. Jones would come to play. I have very fond memories of sitting next to my mother's wheelchair holding hands with her while he sang his beautiful songs. So heartwarming, So fulfilling to mom's spirit. I was so impressed with him that even tho he himself was getting up in age-he still came out to share his gift with his fellow seniors.
ReplyDeletei was in choir in 57 58 srhs. byron had me play piano for choir warmup had to play in all the keys , then sing a fats domino song,every day. signed john allair
ReplyDeleteJohn, I tried to contact you before the Life Celebration. Used a website I thought was you but the response was that I got the wrong guy. I'm sorry to have missed you. Thank you for being a good friend to my father. He was very proud of you.
DeleteWe were your neighbors on The Hill in San Rafael. Mr. Jones also taught my brother trumpet at Coleman Elementary, and was my choir teacher at Davidson Middle School, and later was a familiar figure at SRHS and "the neighborhood". I still remember the harmonies to some of our songs, and the varied repertoire that he introduced us students to...I was very fortunate to have been blessed by Mr. Jones's inspiring love of music.
ReplyDeleteThe Celebration today was so moving, the final inclusive choir song was a fitting crescendo to a remarkable man's life.
Lori Callies, Class of "76
Byron's first day was my first day . . . my first choir rehearsal at First Presbyterian was his first choir rehearsal there. That was the beginning of decades of making awesome music together. What a blessing!.
ReplyDeleteCora Lohse