Remembering an Oneonta Legend: Al Gallodoro

It was almost exactly six years ago that Oneonta said a tearful farewell to one of its greatest legends, horn man supreme Al Gallodoro.

Al blew his sweet notes all around the world and on the grandest stages in America.  From the movies to national television to countless recordings and to night clubs and jazz dives, Al was an important player on the music scene for well over a half century.  Later in life he called Oneonta home and continued his musical legacy in the City of the Hills and its environs for many more years.

A long time ago my father met and struck up a friendship with Al.  Dad was also a legendary musician, albeit on a more local level.  Dad led bands and orchestras in this area from the 1940s on and continued play his piano, organ and stand up bass until just before he passed away a couple of years ago.  Dad and Al joined together playing for dozens of dances, parties and galas over the years.  Al would come down to the Sidney area to play with Dad's congregation and other times my father would come to Oneonta to join up with Al's group.  Oh the great music those guys made together

Safe to say the music only got sweeter when another legend, Jack Stahl, joined them on the piano as a trio.  It simply did not get any better than that.  Dad (Don D'Imperio) and Al are both gone now, but Jack soldiers on.  I saw him last year at the St. James Manor open house and his piano playing hasn't lost a thing.  It was great to see him again.

I came across this photo the other day.  I just wanted to share it with you.  Al, my father and the great Jack Stahl playing the sweetest music this side of heaven.

Oh, what a time it was.  I love this photo.