(l to r) Mario Pavone and Don DePalma. photo credit: Rosemarie Foote Roy
The Connecticut jazz scene mourned the passing of two of its greatest legends in one weekend (May 17-18, 2021); bassist Mario Pavone and pianist Don DePalma. There have been so many losses in the jazz world over the last year, but to the Hartford/New Haven jazz scene such a loss in the span of two days is sad beyond words.
Mario Pavone was fond of telling the story of getting into jazz music later in life after seeing John Coltrane at the Village Vanguard in 1961. A proud native of Waterbury, CT, he was self-taught on the bass. He was part of the free jazz scene, playing with the Paul Bley Trio, Bill Dixon and others early in his career. His notoriety came as part of the Thomas Chapin Trio in the 80’s and 90’s. Anyone who has seen Mario Pavone play walks away in awe of his intensity, focus and originality. I don’t think I have ever seen another musician (never having seen Trane live) excel in those three qualities as Mario. Even in his last years, obviously suffering from a debilitating illness, seemingly frail and weak, Mario would get on stage, lift his bass and channel immense energy playing with the fervor and intensity that he had displayed throughout his career.
Don Depalma was a legend of the Hartford Jazz scene. He seems to have played a vital role in every stage of development of jazz in Hartford. From being a student, friend and collaborator of Paul Brown and Jackie McLean, he played an essential role in the beginnings of the Artist Collective and Monday Night Jazz series in Hartford. He was the founding musical director and house band pianist for the legendary 880 Club, bringing in jazz legends and sparking the careers of young jazz artists. I knew Don to be an extremely talented pianist with monster chops, swing and soulfulness unmatched in the Hartford scene and beyond. He also was a kind, jovial soul that was dedicated more to the love of this music and encouraging younger musicians on the bandstand, than to his own notoriety or “success”. He always invited young musicians to the stage and supported them regardless of their level of talent. He had a knack for elevating the musicianship of those around him. Going to a jam session led by Don DePalma always turned into a party atmosphere; something rare among modern day jazz musicians.
We can take solace that these great souls have left a legacy of artistry, originality and joy in what they have given us through their music and friendships. Rest in peace, Don DePalma and Mario Pavone. You will be missed, but always remembered.
Thanks for sharing your memories of these impactful musical masters. Don helped get my chops going as a young, self-taught bass player so eager to sit in at the 880 club, and terrified at the same time! He was very encouraging with his amiable demeanor and awesome skills.
Mario Pavone Makes His Final Statement (Downbeat, May 4, 2021):
https://downbeat.com/news/detail/mario-pavone-makes-his-final-statement
Don DePalma obituary (The Hartford Courant, May 18, 2021):
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/hartfordcourant/obituary.aspx?n=don-depalma&pid=198680220
I remember those Monday night sessions at the 880 Club when I was at UConn and playing in a salsa band.
Of course Nat Reeves was always there with Donnie along with a lot of great horn players too.
Ken, thanks for your remembrance of Don and Mario. I became a member of CMIF, Creative Musicians Improvisors Forum, back in the early 80’s along Mario, Bobby Naughton, Wes Brown, Gerry Hemingway, Dwight Andrews, and founder Leo Smith. Mario’s playing was exactly as you describe above.
Ken, you are so right to describe these two legends as beautiful souls. They were in the grand tradition of the best messengers of love and positivity in the CT music scene
With Love and Admiration for Don and Mario. – RIP!
Phil Bowler ~