Raymond E. Young

Pianist and teacher, Raymond Elwood Young died on Thursday, July 16, 2009.Raymond was born Feb. 8, 1918 to J. Oscar and Florence (Weingaertner) Young in Newark, NJ. He also shared his family life with an older brother, Robert.He began his piano studies at age seven and pursued more advanced studies with Helen Kanouse, then at the Juilliard School and finally with Franklin Cannon. He was the Federation of Music Clubs winner for New Jersey and made his debut at Town Hall, NYC. His performances included solo recitals, concert with orchestras and for forty five years, four hand concerts with his son, Dr. Stefan Young. He composed a number of piano works and during eleven summers was staff pianist for the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, only retiring five years ago. From 1948 on, he taught in his private studio in Westfield and teaching became the center of his career. He was particularly known for his kindness and patience in drawing out the best from his students. He was still teaching his last student, Neldina Sandeep this past spring.The joys of his life included horseback riding, model trains, Martha's Vineyard, British comedies, fencing, sailing and his membership in The Musician's Club of New Jersey and Words and Music. Above all else was his love of his family, his "honorary grandchildren" Andrea and Steven Fang, his friends (especially Ingrid and Peter Quick) and his wonderful cats and dogs.He lost his loving wife of 69 years, Ruth, on June 5, 2009. He is survived by his proud son, Stefan and loving nieces and nephews. A gathering of family and friends will be held in the fall. Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of the United States.Arrangements were by the Gray Funeral Home, Westfield.