John Coltrane, Count Basie, Lloyd Trotman, and Guy Lombardo were honored on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum during a special musical tribute celebrating the legendary jazz greats laid to rest on the property.
Guests attended the free event which was the first tribute Pinelawn has ever organized to honor the legendary jazz musicians. The noted Silver Arrow Band, which has performed around the world and with award winning musical artists including Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Herbie Hancock & Quincy Jones will perform for guests, under the stars, in Pinelawn’s Louis Natalie Mall, home to many Pinelawn events.
“A very special evening was planned where, for the first time, we honored the extraordinary jazz musicians who are resting peacefully at Pinelawn. Each musician has significantly contributed to the history of jazz and 20th century music and we were honored and humbled to share this history with the community,” said Justin Locke, President, Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum.
About the Jazz Musicians
John Coltrane was a 20th century iconic American jazz saxophonist, bandleader, composer and musical giant. He is among the most influential and acclaimed figures in the history of jazz. John Coltrane died on July 17, 1967 at Huntington Hospital, Huntington, Long Island.
Count Basie, born William James Basie, was an American jazz musician and American institution that personified the grandeur and excellence of jazz. Count Basie is considered one of the greatest bandleaders of all time. He was the arbiter of big-band swing, establishing swing as a lasting music style. The legendary Count Basie Orchestra still performs today. In 1924, Count Basie moved to New York City. Count Basie died on April 26, 1984.
Lloyd Trotman was known as the “sideman to the stars,” an American jazz bassist who performed alongside noted jazz, R&B, Dixieland and rock artists including Duke Ellington, Ben E. King and the Platters. He resided in Huntington, Long Island between 1962 and 2007. Lloyd Trotman died on October 3, 2007.
Guy Lombardo, born Gaetano Alberto Lombardo, was a Canadian and American Big Band leader known for his festive approach to New Year’s Eve through his famous recording of Auld Lang Syne. He performed with the Royal Canadians charting yearly hits. Guy Lombardo lived in Freeport, Long Island on South Grove Street, later renamed “Guy Lombardo Way.” Guy Lombardo died on November 5, 1977.
Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum is known for its exceptionally beautiful, park-like grounds, unique architectural monuments, flowing bronze fountains and world-class, 500-acre Level II Arboretum. Pinelawn recently announced its 2023 event schedule which includes educational, outdoor programs focusing on the environment. Throughout the year, Pinelawn also hosts online and in-person grief support workshops.
Upcoming Pinelawn Events Include:
- Morning Yoga Flow -Sunday, July 23
- 6th Annual Ladybug Release – Sunday, August 6
- Sunset Yoga – Friday, August 12
- 3rd Annual Lantern Lighting Celebration – Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20
- Morning Yoga Flow – Sunday, August 27
- Honey Bee Experience – Sunday, September 10
- Sunset Yoga – Saturday, September 16
- Yoga Under the Stars, Hatha Centering Class – Friday, September 29
- Candlelight Remembrance Vigil – Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1
All of Pinelawn’s events are free of charge and open to the public. To find out more details, click here to see the full 2023 calendar of events and to sign up for email updates.
Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, located in Farmingdale, New York, is a non-sectarian cemetery prided on creating and maintaining a beautiful and serene environment where families can find tranquility and comfort. Its open and expansive landscape features hundreds of acres of manicured grounds, unique architecture, flowing bronze fountains, and flower-lined walks. Its beautiful memorial gardens offer all who visit, scenic beauty where they can reflect upon their loved ones in peace. For more information on Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, or to schedule a tour of the property, visit www.pinelawn.com or call 631-249-6100.
