LI Music Hall of Fame Honors Pat DeRosa in Stony Brook

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame hosted a tribute event for the late saxophonist Pat DeRosa on October 12, 2024, in Stony Brook, New York. The program featured live music, a biographical film, and a Q&A session with DeRosa's family, including his daughter and granddaughter. DeRosa, who passed away in March 2023, was recognized for his remarkable career, which included performances with jazz legends and teaching music in local schools for nearly three decades. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021, DeRosa was celebrated for his contributions to music, having earned the Guinness World Record as the oldest professional saxophone player in 2018. His legacy includes performances with big bands in the mid-20th century and collaborations with notable artists like John Coltrane. The event also featured a raffle to support a music scholarship established by his family. The tribute highlighted DeRosa's impact on the music community, showcasing his family's talents as they performed in his honor. The event was free with regular admission to the Hall of Fame, making it accessible to the public. The celebration of DeRosa's life and career served as a reminder of the rich musical heritage of Long Island and the importance of preserving such legacies. Overall, the event not only commemorated DeRosa's achievements but also aimed to inspire future generations of musicians through the scholarship and the shared memories of his family and friends.