Central Coast Conservatorium is mourning the loss of one of its most popular teachers, following the death on November 1 of Leo Dellolio at the age of 74.
Leo began his teaching career on the Central Coast in 1985 after moving to Ettalong where he first taught at the Central Coast Music Centre.
The move followed his studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, where he attained a Bachelor of Arts (Music) and studied Jazz with Don Burrows.
Leo had funded his studies by playing in restaurants and teaching students.
He joined the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music and became a leading member of the teaching community.
He taught piano, accordion, musicianship, and theory.
He led both the Junior and Senior Jazz Big Bands alongside colleague Don Andrews.
Leo was a valued rehearsal accompanist for choirs, soloists and many community concert groups including the Central Coast Philharmonia and the Gosford Musical Society.
Leo’s mastery of repertoire spanned the classical and jazz greats, and he was equally at home playing Ludwig van Beethoven as Oscar Peterson.
He was superb at improvisation and admired by colleagues as an accomplished musician and a wonderful, big-hearted human being.
“Leo made a great contribution to the Board as the teachers’ representative.
He was a true gentleman – always kind and attentive” former President of the Central Coast Conservatorium, Peter Brandon, said.
The Conservatorium said Leo is missed by many and leaves behind a tremendous legacy and his beloved sons Paul and Andrew, an accomplished pianist in his own right, and grandchildren Jessica, Caitlyn, James and Angelina.
Source:
Media release, Nov 30
Central Coast Conservatorium