|
Page Five -
I grew up playing stickball with Artie, learning guitar from Happy and having my teeth looked after by their dad. But our friendship really began seven years ago, when I made an unlikely visit to a music shop I normally avoided and saw a poster announcing Artie’s appearance the following day. I realized that Artie didn’t remember me (or, remarkably, the ground rules of punchball in the PS 28 schoolyard), but he was too gracious and kind to let on. In the years that followed, Pam and I joyously hosted Bev and Artie in our home whenever they were traveling through our area, and our love for both of them has grown beyond anything I could have guessed as I walked up to the door of that music store. To say “he will be missed” doesn’t begin to describe how we feel. He and Bev will remain in our hearts forever.
Bill Drellow
Bemus Point, NY - July 22, 2008
Artie always brought joy & passion to any musical project he was involved with.
His smile & music made those Woodstock Guild's Solstice Concerts a magical night,, the fun he had with his Beloved Bro, Happy, & Larry Campbell, Pat Alger,Cyndi Cashdollar and so many other true Woodstock Musicians.
The joy he brought to Levon's Barn during the Jericho recording of AMAZON ! Artie & Rick Danko together was always too much fun.
I have a 1984 recording of Levon Helm & Friends @ the Joyous Lake with Artie Traum , Stan Szelest & Cyndi Cashdollar, with Jim Weider too,,, KILLER NIGHT !
Go with Rick, Richard, John Herald, Stan and Butter and play nicely together, Artie, There was no one like you, Brother.
I'll say Kaddish for you,
butch dener
July 22, 2008
What can I say. Artie has been a part of my life for a long time... from listening to Happy and Artie play together in the early 70's on Long Island where I grew up, to joining him many times onstage for Woodstock Mountain Review shows, Solstice concerts, WAMC shows and more..
I remember him dubbing me the"Folk Synthesist" almost 20 years ago now, playing in my house rehearsing for some gig, and I have never forgotten it. It made me laugh then, and has many times since... just like Artie always did. He was the class clown, and the valedictorian all at the same time...the consummate professional, and the heart of any gathering.
He was a gentle man, and a talent the likes of which I have rarely seen. He was down to earth, and someone who made me smile just to be in the same room. He could always be counted on - for a riff, a joke, or a hand. He was a listener, and a leader, a quick wit, and a passionate lover of life.
I am so grateful to have known him and to have called him my friend. Beverly, Happy, and Jane - my thoughts are very much with you all today, as they have been these past weeks and months. Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of someone so special to us all.
Neil Eisenberg
July 22, 2008
Our prayers go out to Beverly, Happy, Jane and all of Artie's many musical companions. Artie was an inspiration as a guitarist and was always a pleasure to spend time with. This sad news will come as a shock to his many friends here in Nashville.
Fred and Trish Koller
Nashville - July 22, 2008
On behalf of all of Artie’s many friends at WPKN radio, I offer our deepest condolences to Beverly and Happy and all of Artie's friends and family. Artie was a kind and generous friend to WPKN and his many benefit performances on behalf of the station are among our brightest and proudest moments. Artie’s response to any request to do an interview or play in a benefit show was always “just tell me when and where.” He was an amazingly talented musician and everyone at WPKN will miss him greatly.
On a personal note, I’ll miss the many unexpected phone calls ("So how is the garden doing this year?") and the springtime packets of Beverly’s tomato seeds (which are growing beautifully in my garden right now). I first met Artie when he played at our tribute to Rick Danko. We became instant friends that night and it has been a rare pleasure to know Artie these many years.
Jeff Wignall - WPKN 89.5 FM
Bridgeport, CT - July 22, 2008
What a regret.
I'm one of the thousands of amateur and semi-pro musicians and performers you profoundly influenced.
I went to HS in upstate NY in the 60's, college in the City into the early 70's. I was lucky enough to see and hear you and your brother more than once back then. I think you fellows might have even played the Fillmore East one time when I was there, but you know how hazy THOSE memories can be!
I ran the Postcrypt Coffehouse in St. Paul's Chapel at Columbia for a few years...
Uncle Jedd Say, Hungry Dogs of New Mexico.... songs we loved and sung hundreds of times there onstage and off.
A few years later I moved here to California and was wandering around in McCabe's Guitar Shop in Santa Monica, feeling a bit disconnected from so many things. There you were... without your brother... on the cover of Life On Earth ...Before I even listened to it, I was so happy just to have purchased it.
It blew me completely away.... It was the most brilliant album I had ever heard, and I wore it out playing it over and over. Life was ...copesetic again.
Then One From The Heart, with Pat Alger. (I was horrified to read your web site just now and find out both those brilliant, soulful piecces of work are out of print.)
City Lights.... brought me to tears so many times. Every time.
I swear, right now I feel I'm gonna make everyone who steps foot in my house listen to those albums and let 'em know what we lost.
Your like will not be heard or encountered again. Yeah, there's Life On Earth, alright.
But without your voice and spirit .....
You and George Carlin leaving us too soon, Artie..... It's just.... so hard to fathom.
All I can do is thank you.
Thanks for the beautiful singing and playing and songwriting and producing and performing and inspiration.
Thanks for the music, the memories, and the mentoring.
Thanks for sharing it all so very well with so many of us.
I love your work and the part of your Life On Earth I was privileged to enjoy.
I sure wish I had had the chance to tell you personally that I love you, Artie, and all that your music and artistry contributed to my life, my family's lives, and those of my friends.
Farther on down the road, my brother.
May your family and friends draw on all the richness and sweetness you gave us all, and may your great heart warm them throughout their grieving.
Marc Bachrach
July 22, 2008
Just got the news. I didn't know Artie very well, but I really liked him when our paths did cross. I loved that he made me feel like an old friend from the first moment we met.
Thanks for all the music.
Jay Ansill
July 22, 2008
Dear Bev, Happy & Jane,
I am heartbroken, sad and weary from this great loss.
Exactly 30 years ago, I met Artie at a festival at SUNY Buffalo, where he was playing with the Woodstock Mountain Revue, and I was one of the opening acts. The friendship that began at that gig would prove to be the most astounding association of my life and career. Artie was my first producer and my most inspiring mentor.
In the early 80's I met up with Artie when he was working as a hired gun repping Tokai Gakki guitars at the NAMM conference in Chicago. We jammed in the trade show booth for hours. While the Japanese execs bowed and smiled, people started to gather and marvel at Artie's brilliant guitar licks and riffs. As our time together came to a close, the Tokai execs handed me the guitar I had been playing, and said "Mistah Traum's friend, please, you take this home." I was stunned and shocked, having no idea what the protocol might be. I looked over at Artie, he winked and smiled that Traum family smile, and 25 years later this is the guitar I play daily, and I am grateful still.
I owe a great deal to Artie for the lessons about road life and this business of music. He was a pioneer who lovingly and effortlessly shared his time and knowledge. These are the gifts of kindness a traveler never forgets.
His flawless talent is to be honored and celebrated, his generous spirit will be greatly missed.
Bev, it brings great comfort to know that you were there with him at the end as "his girl."
We could see how Artie treasured and adored you. It was apparent that he knew the blessings of your precious love and protection, your concern and dedication.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole Traum family community.
Sally Fingerett
July 22, 2008
How terribly sad..... I was really shocked to find the email on Artie's passing in my in-box this morning.....
Artie and I have corresponded A LOT over the past 1½ years, and it was as late as spring this year that Artie, Wendy Waldman and I started planning for a joint European tour next year..... I didn't even know Artie was sick.....
He was such a fun, intelligent and warm person, and I'm a lucky and much wiser person to have gotten to know him a bit, in the last year or so.....
He will be truly missed,
Peter Holmstedt
July 22, 2008
Artie was a mensch. I never heard him say anything unkind about anyone who wasn't a fascist bastard or an entertainment executive... but I repeat myself.
He was also a great husband, uncle, brother in-law, son, friend, picker, artist, writer, kvetch and brother with a capital B.
I called a week or two ago and as is the custom I had to give a big shpiel to voicemail until Beverly picked up..she said he'll talk YOU. I felt like a big shot.. It's hard to put into words but he always made me feel that way... I'm not alone, Exhibit A: the tributes that I've read today.
Anyway, it was after his surgery and dire is an understatement... I pointed out that in a twist of fate his career was now in much better shape than Tim Russert's.... miracle of miracles even then he could laugh...Artie could always laugh. I told him I loved him and he told me the same and that's that.
There are are two pictures that exemplify youth in Dave Garr's Book " The Faces of Folk Music". The first is Mimi Farina in a stripped boat neck, foot on a fence and the other, Artie wearing Alan Block Hippie sandal holding a guitar case in a phone booths somewhere in the Village ready to change the world...He sure made mine better.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Artie Traum.....
"A white moon is rising behind our house. It's the moon of August, thickened by humidity and thunderstorms. Guitars sound deeper in this weather. The notes drip into the air and don't travel far. I've always been drawn to musicians from the steamy, unexpected South: Mance Lipscomb, Arthur "Big Boy" Crudup, the Delmore Brothers and Mose Allison. When I was in high school Dick Weissman and Larry Sandberg turned me on to Tampa Red, Jelly Roll Morton, Lonnie Johnson and Pinetop Perkins. All I wanted to do back then was dig into old American music. It seems we had time to uncover rare recordings and try to learn these styles. I was lucky to see Mississippi John Hurt, Doc Watson and even Jimmy Hendrix in small clubs. My brother Happy studied guitar with Brownie McGhee who taught him the syncopated secrets of Blind Boy Fuller. Brownie played energetic thumping blues tinged with optimism. We weren't the only ones learning blues and R&B."
Enjoy the Dog Days... make music... eat local food. The world spins... and summer, like a Charlie Parker solo, is fleeting."
A "Theft of Time" ...way too short..but time spent well on all of us.
Love and Knishes,
Bobby K
July 22, 2008
I was not a close friend of Artie's, but I feel honored to have known him. Given the opportunity, I can muster up some witticism, but when I was around Artie, I was way out of my league. He could have been a standup comic if he'd chosen that profession. Instead, he became a world-class guitarist and a marvelous musician of all stripes. A couple of years ago, Taylor Guitars asked me to provide a series of illustrations for their newsletter, Wood & Steel. My very first assignment was an illustration for an article about alternate guitar tunings. The writer was Artie Traum. That illustration ended up being my best illustration for the series. I was inspired, of course, by Artie's writing and his vast knowledge of the guitar, but the real kicker was knowing that my illustration would be viewed by a master of humor. I know it's a cliche, but in Artie's case, it is 100% pure true: Artie made the world a much better place for his having been here.
Elwood H. Smith
July 22, 2008
There is a time when someone comes into your life and adds to it in an
immeasurably profound way. By your association with them you gain in
friendship, family, knowledge, wisdom, the joy of giving and being given to
and the capacity to love. Such good fortune happened for me thirty six years
ago when as a new resident of Woodstock New York I met Artie Traum. I can't
imagine what my life would have been without knowing Artie. His enormous
sphere of influence will live on in all who were lucky enough to be touched
by his exemplary brand of humanity. Music and Beverly were his loves and
life was his art. I choose not to think that he has left us but that he is
somewhere waiting and we will meet again. Until then I will miss him
dearly.
George James
July 22, 2008
i'm sorry to hear of the passing of artie. i've always enjoyed his music, and we have lost a good man and a fine musician. the world will be a lot less honest without him.
steven meiners
July 22, 2008
Sometimes it seems like only the good people leave us. Of course, that's not true. It's just that they are the ones who leave such hurt behind when they go. I saw Artie play several times around the Woodstock area. I have some of his music and instructional media. I didn't know him personally. I didn't have to - his kindness and humanity shone through like an aura.
Denny Fried
Osprey, FL - July 22, 2008
I just received the devastating news of the loss of my dear old friend, Artie. He was simply the best, and perhaps the funniest man I ever knew. He, along with his brother Happy got me my start in Woodstock in '71, and the countless gigs touring and the great recordings were a real training ground for me. He also produced my first album for Rounder records, and I got to tour Japan with him along with Mud Acres.He was always one of my best guitar playing buddies, we always had a blast onstage, and who can forget such moments as Artie singing "Killing Me Softly with Kung Fu", or introducing Maria Muldaur (then D'Amato), as "you say D'Amato, I say D'AmAto!". He never failed to uplift the situation, and basically never failed to put me into tears of laughter. And let's not forget me and Artie and Happy recording "You Gotta Believe" as the single for the New York Mets' World Series run in 1973! Miss and love you forever, my dear, dear friend.
Arlen Roth
Martha's Vineyard - 7/22/08
Dear Beverly and Dear Happy and Jane,
I heard terribly sad news about Artie today on WAMC while driving in Woodstock.
It is especially shocking for people who had no idea what Artie, and you, were dealing with
these past few months.
Words fail dismally when trying to describe the miserable feelings one has when they
lose a person who is central and essential in their life in many intertwined ways.
I am truly so very sorry about this unfair, untimely, terrible loss to you, his closest family, and also to his extended
community of friends, colleagues, and admirers.
With prayers that you'll find peace and solace sooner than later,
we extend our heartfelt sympathies.
Sylvia Leonard Wolf &
Leonard Levitan
Phoenicia, NY - July 22, 2008
ah artie! a jew with the blues who always made me feel happy. an eastern european soul and a west village spirit. it's thirty nine years since we met and at every twist and turn of life's highway i can see artie there and his unfailing smile. a few years ago, when all the mischpuchim (artie, forgive my spelling) were gathered in mt. tremper, he and bev made a point to come over and have breakfast with my folks at la duchesse. my brothers and i were so touched.
the word will sorely miss you, artie. i never knew you to have a mean (or a Republican) thought.
thanks for teaching us all that "everyone's an eagle...you can fly if you try"
peter kaminsky
July 22, 2008
Artie Traum was an integral piece of Woodstock music history. His legacy is long as his life was short.
Woodstock lost a cornerstone that many will only now know through his recorded works. We tend to take for granted that
people will always be here, until they are suddenly gone. Artie will always be remembered for the contribution to the local community
charities with his selfless actions that now shine in God's light. Rest easy Artie. Peace and Love.
Tom & Kathleen Moretti
Woodstock, NY - July 22, 2008
The loss of our friend and brother Artie Traum is a profound one. I'd casually met him over the years, but was graced to solidify our connection in 1999 at the very first SummerSongs songwriting camp at the Ashokan Field Campus in upstate New York, where his guitar classes were filled to overflowing, as they were every year since. It's no small testament to his teaching skill that he could take a roomful of people at ALL levels and keep everyone interested, engaged, up to speed, stretched, entertained, and encouraged the whole time. I was an eager student, and always marveled at how he could take things that sounded so cool and complex and break them down for us mere mortals to understand and grab hold of. Thank you Artie, for wonderful chord progressions, melodic movement, inspired rhythms, and soft-spoken virtuosity, both in music and in your interaction with those of us lucky enough to have known you. The heartbeat of your music and soul lives forever in ours.
David Roth
July 22, 2008
I only met Artie one time and he was an inspiration to me. I was quickly taken in by his warmth and humor. His guitar playing was intimidating to me so we didn't play any but we talked about what he was up to. I was so impressed by his life, style and business sense. We will miss Artie. We will pick a tune for you buddy.
Steve Kaufman
TN - July 22, 2008
Artie was one of my earliest influences and musical role models. His musicianship and fervour has kept me interested in music for what has become most of my life. Because of people like him I am able to convey the passion of music to my students, my listeners and other musicians. I know I speak for many of us "out here." He was one of those people who was part of the landscape, and who was going to be around forever. May you be comforted by his memories and may they be a blessing for you.
Sincerely,
Lynda Marks Kraar
July 21, 2008
Please accept my most gracious condolences in this time of sorrow. Artie was indeed one of my alltime favorite artists and I am honored to have been among the ones who were priviledged to see and hear him perform, as well as to talk to him and exchange emails. He will live in in my heart as well as in the music that he made. May he rest in peace and play in God's band.
Sincerely,
Marty Katz
San Diego, CA - July 21, 2008
Dear Beverly,
Cindy and I are just too sad for words. Artie was the sweetest, kindest, gentlest man. He was taken much too soon. May the Lord give you strength and consolation in your grief.
All our love,
Cindy and Jesse Winchester
July 21, 2008
Artie Traum was a true American icon. Julie and I were unbelievably fortunate to host a House Concert for Artie Traum just this past February. He put on a great show and really wowed the audience. He was really incredible as he shared the night with Wendy Waldman and left everyone wanting more.
Artie was an amazing musician. His latest CD, "Thief Of Time," was our favorite new album last year. We've played it over and over and over... (Wendy Waldman produced it and did a mighty fine job.)
We've lost a truly incredible musician, but more importantly a really great guy... We feel so blessed that we were able to share Artie's amazing talents with many others in our community. We know that those who were here will never forget the evening. We feel very lucky to have gotten to know Artie and his wife Beverly.
You can view a few photos we took of Artie Traum and Wendy Waldman that night at our House Concert at:
http://www.houseconcerts.us/houseconcerts/concert133.html
We're speechless...
Russ & Julie
Oak Park, CA - July 21, 2008
My condolences to Artie's close and extended family of friends all over this world. Prayers and a lit candle are in the wind coming toward all of you.
Artie was a music friend and a client at different times and over several years, at this point. We were introduced by his good friend Jeff Heiman who is a close friend of mine.
I spent too little time in Artie's presence - the times we were able to share, face to face, were always bright moments of humor and suitable grim humor regarding the music business and always with music, its very own self, being a reason to draw breath.
God Speed Artie. Bless you all.
Michael Carlson
Seattle - July 21, 2008
Artie will be remembered by his fans for not only his musical talent,
but also his possession of the gift of teaching.
Many musicians easily display their talents, but to communicate them
in a manner that students of all ages may embrace, is another issue
unto itself.
But to have a talented musician and artist, in full ownership of the
skills of an experienced instructor, Artie also had the rare and
unique ability to inspire enthusiasm in his students. He was unable
to contain his love of music; his love of small detail in instruction,
and his love of raising a student above the mere rote, to a place of
creativity.
I am so blessed to have "known" Artie through his CDs and his
instructional DVDs, and through this medium, he will continue to shine
upon me, my wife and my children, who all love to sing his songs;
especially those recorded with his brother, Happy.
Watching the two of them teach, on DVD, without an ounce of
professional rivalry, put me, the student, at ease, and allowed me to
soak up the priceless and invaluable education that Artie so freely
gave of himself.
My God alleviate the ache in the hearts of his wife, and his family,
that will by necessity, be there, from the loss of someone so
wonderfully indispensable.
Peter Hyatt
July 21, 2008
Dearest Beverly, Jane, and Happy
I don't have words right now, only tears.
I am so very lucky to have spent the time I did with Artie, to have been the recipient of his and your extraordinary generosity and love, to
have been able to ride shotgun in the studio with him, and to play together as we did.
All of this was a privilege for me, and will always be.
I miss him so much I can't come close to expressing it. There's a big hole he leaves and it will not be filled.
I think of him and smile, but it hurts. But I hope to carry a little of him with me as long as I travel this earth, and I will.
My love and prayers are yours and his forever.
Wendy Waldman
July 21, 2008
I send my love and my deepest condolences to Bev, Happy, Jane and all the Traum family. My life is better because I knew Artie but now my life has a great, sorrowful hole in it. I loved Artie. And, here's the amazing thing, he loved me back. Someone as wonderful as Artie Traum loved me back. Of all the gifts you gave us, Artie, your music, your words, your virtuosity, your humor - the most precious gift you gave us all was your love. We all loved you. And you loved us back.
Bev, I'm so very, very sorry. We share in your sorrow and we proudly and joyfully resolve to be there for you from now until forever. God bless you and keep you and comfort you.
With love,
Bridget Ball Shaw
July 21, 2008
I am so saddened by the news of Artie's passing.
I met him at a concert in Gilroy,CA. this past Valentine's Day.
He performed with Wendy Waldman.
He was absolutely wonderful, funny and such a human being.
I told him that he reminded me of Joe Pass, who I had met many years ago.
He said that was the best compliment he'd ever received.
I bought his cd and he autographed it. I am so glad that I did.
I also have seen the Niagara Falls documentary and heard his music on it.
I will pray for Artie and for you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anonymous
July 21, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Artie's death. Growing up on the lower East Side Saturday nights in the summer would often involve listening to Happy and Artie sing under the arch in Washington Square Park. He and Happy played my college (Hobart) around 1971 and by then I was hooked. Saw the Woodstock Mountain Revue every chance I could and then when I moved to Dutchess County and had the pleasure of seeing Artie many times from Oblong Books to the Kleinart. He truly has been part of my life and I am so grateful he had time with us. Please be aware that he has touched many lives of people he may have only talked to a few times
Richard
July 21, 2008
Although I had met Artie only a few times, I have heard him play on many, many occasions. He was a wonderful musician, and I always enjoyed listening to his music, especially live performances. My sincere condolences to Beverly, Happy, and other family members. He will truly be missed.
Jonathan Delson
Saugerties, N Y - July 21, 2008
When I was in high school in the '60s, I had this LP of Judy Roderick that I listened to non-stop. I copied all of Artie's licks on that record and still play his beautiful arrangement of "Rock Me Baby" note for note. Artie's music has been and will remain a touchstone for me, as I know it is for so many people. What a huge contribution he has made musically and personally.
Elly Wininger
July 21, 2008
Artie was indeed a fine and creative musician. His ability to create was exceeded only by his willingness to share his knowledge. And his friendliness was the only other thing was greater than his sharing.
Rest in the strength of a great life, friend.
Richard Broadbent
Emmitsburg, MD - July 21, 2008
I'm so sorry to hear of Artie's passing. He was a
wonderful, inspired and inspiring musician and great
guy to spend time with.
Artie and I became friends in 1974 when he started
doing gigs at the Golem, the folk club that I ran in
Montreal in the 1970s and '80s. His song, "Girls of
Montreal," came out of one of his Golem gigs.
Even though it was often years between our getting
together, Artie and I kept in touch and he was one of
the first people I called when I was asked to program
the Champlain Valley Folk Festival in Vermont in 2000.
Our last visit was in October 2006 when Artie had a
Taylor Guitar clinic in Montreal. It was also an
opportunity to have him come chat and play live on my
radio program. After the radio show, Artie, Bev and I
went out for a great Vietnamese meal.
My deepest condolences to Bev, Happy and Jane, and
everyone else who loved Artie.
Rest well my friend.
Mike Regenstreif
Montreal/Ottawa - July 21, 2008
Dear Family and Friends of Artie, Thoughts of comfort to the family of Artie who brought such great music to my ears and being for many years. May he be "in the light." He will be missed greatly. Many prayers and chanting will be going out from admirers such as myself.
Dorothy (Divya) Sernaker
Woodstock, NY - July 21, 2008
Artie always showed me such kindness. First in the late seventies as one of Merry's high school friends - and Merry had a lot of friends - Artie always knew my name - he was the cool uncle. Then again in the eighties when Artie performed at my college, welcoming me backstage after the show, introducing me to everybody, and - recognizing a hungry college kid - making sure I ate plenty from the buffet. And finally, just a couple of years ago, when I emailed him wondering where I can get a cd of Life On Earth ' a couple of weeks later the disc was in my mailbox with his compliments. What a sweet guy, what a great guitar player, what a great songwriter. Love to all the Traums.
Jordan Lohre
July 21, 2008
It is with a great amount of sadness that I send my sincere condolences to Artie's family & friends, having just learning of his untimely passing.
I had the pleasure of meeting Artie several years ago at Sheehan's Acoustic Avalon guitar show in Leicester, England where he was performing on behalf of Taylor guitars. We enjoyed a great conversation there and quickly became friends over that very memorable weekend at the Leicester race track.
In addition to being a superb musician and entertainer, he was a real gentleman who will be missed by his legion of fans and many friends in the music business.
May he rest in peace and may his music continue to bring us enjoyment for many years to come.
Rick Nelson
July 21, 2008
....sigh.... The most hip, fun-meister of the bunch. Boy, will he be missed .. he made this world a better place. I'm glad he's at peace, but what about the rest of us?
Many hugs to you, Bev, as well as his family and closest friends who must be devastated. Hugs to you all.
Suzie Reed
July 21, 2008
Artie was one of the linchpins of the folk-singer-song-writer scene which blossomed in our youth in and around Greenwich Village's Washington Square and all the little pass-the-hat clubs which hosted the birth of the folk boom of the sixties. His good-natured presence and wonderful musicianship brought a lot of warmth to the scene.
My fondest memories of Artie are those Thursday afternoons on the CCNY South Campus lawn where Artie showed me some of the subtleties in Piedmont blues tunes by John Hurt and others. Afternoons at Marc Silber's Fretted Instrument shop above the Waverly Theater and later at Matt and Suzie Umanov's store on Bedford street were filled with music, lots of banter and for me now wonderful memories.
Sadly the last time I saw Artie was at John Herald's memorial in Woodstock. I kept meaning to get down there to visit with him and others in Woodstock but I was too busy to get away. My father always said "if you're too busy to go fishing, you're too busy." I think the same goes for old friends.
All my best to all of his loved ones.
Ivon Schmukler
Williamsburg, MA - July 21, 2008
I just heard that Artie Traum has died. Oh how sad. He was such a wonderful person. My deepest sympathy and love goes to Beverly, Happy, Jane, and all his family.
Mary Zydel
July 21, 2008
To everyone at Homespun and with Artie - I am so sorry that Artie has passed. I only met him once, but he has inspired me for years.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Joe Lilly
July 21, 2008
As a guitar playing youth I was one who loved messing around with tunings and was told to listen to what Artie Traum was doing with DADGAD tuning. It was inspiring to hear what he could do with a guitar. He will be missed!
Jeremy Birnbaum
July 21, 2008
Like everyone who was privileged to know him, Artie touched my life and brought me joy. His beautiful music, quirky humor and passion for living won't be forgotten by any of us. We need to do what we can to support precious Beverly at this time, and let her know we share her loss. Who could not have loved Artie Traum?
Buzz Marcus
July 21, 2008
Artie was one of my favorite people in life. I am proud to call him friend since the 1970s.
He's a big part of what has always made Woodstock such a special community to me.
Beyond the personal chemistry and friendship which I will always cherish, his artistry / humanity speaks for itself.
The better you knew him, the more you loved him. God was in a really good mood when he made Artie!
I will miss his warmth and his sense of humor, and I will always think of him as an uplifting true friend.
Larry Hoppen
July 21, 2008
How can I ever forget Artie? For years every time he played, he was holding his Taylor guitar. It was an honor for me to hear him play and to see my guitar become an instrument in his hands. Artie was always grateful, full of encouragement and compliments. I remember so many NAMM shows where "Artie Traum and Friends" played on our stage. That's the thing you see, he had many friends, and these people were always thrilled to play with him. It was a stage full, and guests would walk away shaking their heads in disbelief having just heard so many fine musicians come together, and there in the midst, yet in the center, was Artie, not taking the limelight but it shined on him nonetheless. It was definitely some of the finest musical moments at NAMM, and I have to say that our room was packed to the gills, and overflowing with people when he played. Very exciting moments.
Artie would eventually work his way out of the booth, although it could have taken hours with him talking to so many, and he'd find me and tell me how much he enjoyed his guitar. There were so many friendly conversations and nice moments we shared.
I'm going to miss him. That's all there is to it.
Bob Taylor
July 21, 2008
I've always been a fan of the Traum brothers but Artie won my heart speaking with him and hearing him perform at the 2005 NAMM show. The dignity and grace of this man was obvious and only exceeded by his kindness to anyone that walked up. When he heard I was a player he immediately brightened his smile and tried to show me some of his licks I'd been asking about. I knew this was a great moment and I'd met a truly great man. I lost my brother years ago and miss him often but they will always be with us. In our hearts and our music. I attach a photo from my meeting with Artie.
With a heavy heart,
Doug "Little Brother" Jones
Conyers, GA - July 21, 2008
Hey Artie.
I wish you hadn't gone first.
Thanks for leaving Thief of Time. I've listened to that CD more than any other in my collection over the past year. Like you, it is an incredible piece of work.
I hear your voice:
Just before we went on stage at the Music Box: "Relax. You're going to own this room in 10 minutes."
Over a spring breakfast: "Do something for publishing every day. All my friends who tour are broke. The writers live in big houses and stay indoors during the winter."
On singing (or was it?): "I wish I'd left my insecurities behind when I was a lot younger. They never did me any good." And on and on. Wolves, waterfalls, hopes and schemes. Substitute chords. Multiple guitars in various tunings waiting to be woken, lounging on your living room furniture like lazy cats.
I really wish you hadn't gone first.
lafe
July 21, 2008
Arriving in Woodstock in the summer of 1973 from Atlanta, Georgia, and not being prepared for the long, harsh winters that were to follow, the "ray of light" in those days for me were the Traums - Artie, Happy, Jane, Merry, April and Adam - touchstones in an unknown world of "strange" Northerners with whom this insecure young woman/girl from the South had no experience. I still remember the first time I saw Artie bounding in the door of John Hartford's house, full of laughter and energy. What a sweet, wonderful man. My heart goes out to Bev and all the family and friends - all of us who have lost someone so dear.
Chris Caravacci
Nashville, TN - July 21, 2008
simply said, we loved artie.
what a true gentle man.
we had the pleasure of a long lunch with he and beverly a few years back on his only visit to portland in years----great food, great stories and a chance to actually talk with a man who had grown to be a friend on the phone and via email even though i had seen happy and artie play in the early 60s while in high school.
we will miss him
frank brandon
July 21, 2008
Only worked with Artie once, at the Mayville Folk Festival 3 yrs ago, and found him an endearing man as well as the consummate professional. It so happened that Jim Kweskin was visiting nearby Buffalo, NY and heard Artie was at our festival that weekend. When he stepped onstage, the years melted away and Artie welcomed him with open musical arms. Very cool moment. We here in Chautauqua County (waaaaay at the other end of the state) will miss him. Nice work, Artie. God's peace on your very cool journey.
Bill Ward
Mayville, NY - July 21, 2008
I first laid eyes on Artie when I was 22 at The Newport Folk Festival in 1969. It seemed as though he and Happy played on every single show I saw there that summer and the two dark and mustachioed brothers made quite an impression on me, a "starry-eyed" kid (thanks for the image Johnny) from Georgia. I was playing in a duo myself at the time and the fact that these guys were featured in the most prestigious folk festival of our time made me think I needed to get to know them better. I got my chance that winter when my partner and I were booked at a festival in Putney, Vermont where Happy and Artie were featured. My manager at the time had tried to get Artie interested in producing us and so introductions were made and there in the snows of Vermont the most important friendship of my life began.
I have it mind someday to write my definitive "Travels With Artie" memoir, but for now let me just say that from that point on, every single significant event in my professional life has had a direct connection to my brother Artie. When I was starving to death, he found me work and made me think he actually needed me. He asked me to play with him on shows when he could just as easily have done it himself and taken the whole paycheck. We eventually became a team and played all over the country and in Europe and Scandinavia - to say I learned to become a true professional as a result of my association with him is no exaggeration.
Artie was our instigator - the one who was always joining people together for fun and music and it was my greatest luck that he included me in so many of those musical happenings. We were the kind of friends who could get mad and argue, but never hold a grudge and also sit side by side in silence and never feel uncomfortable. He was always welcome in my home and he and Bev always welcomed me in theirs. I tried to tell Artie how important he was to me over the years, but he was embarrassed to hear it - but I know he knew what he meant to me - and I know there are many of you reading this that feel the same.
In show business, where finding an honest and decent man might be one of the rarest of the species to encounter, Artie stood out as a man with the greatest combination of pride, humility and integrity that I ever had the privilege to know. Personally, every success I have had was always measured by his enthusiasm for it and the genuine joy he took in seeing me do well - as it should have been, because he was in every bit of it. We had no unfinished business between us - he was my brother from another mother and I loved him dearly. My heart goes out to Bev, Happy, Jane and all of the kids, friends and fans - we lost one of the best that ever lived.
Pat Alger
July 21, 2008
My memories of Artie come mostly from our youth. Although our paths didn't cross that often over the decades, the times when we did find ourselves in the same place at the same time were always occasions for genuine friendship and fun. Whether it was at a hoot at Hunter Uptown, singing rock and roll with some of our "political" friends at parties in the Bronx, or just throwing around a spaldeen on the South Campus lawn at CCNY, Artie was a REAL GOOD GUY. I always felt that if I had been lucky enough to grow up on the same block as Artie, from the get-go, we would have been great pals from the neighborhood. I am deeply saddened at the news of his passing.
Dan Hamburg
NYC - July 21, 2008
Artie...a great guy (We were friends for almost 40 years)...a great musician (Loved his style of playing and I learned a lot about playing guitar from him)...a true Woodstocker in every sense of the word. We had great times over the years at concerts where he was playing that I MC'd and when he would stop by WDST to play on the air. In 1987 my daughter was born and we named her Cayenne. That same year Artie released an album called Cayenne. We always joked about whether he named the album after my daughter or I named my daughter after his album. His accomplishments are many...playing with Happy, Woodstock Mountains Revue, Bring it on Home, Woodstock Allstars...shifting effortlessly to Jazz...his many albums. Always friendly...always smiling...I'll miss him.
Richard Fusco
Woodstock, NY - July 21, 2008
I had the pleasure of seeing Artie play at a very small and intimate concert a few years ago, and it's an experience that has stayed with me ever since. I think I sat front row center and absorbed every word and every note. His music was enchanting, his playing superlative, but even above that was the wonderful connection he made with each of us in the audience. The stories, both "in the songs" and "quot;between the songs,"quot; about his inspirations and experiences were a true delight.
It was a privilege for me to know Artie, however briefly, and my heart goes out to his lovely wife, Bev... more of us will miss him than you can imagine.
Amy Detwiler
Orlando, FL - July 21, 2008
Artie Traum was a superb artist, a great soul, and - perhaps most importantly - a true friend. Artie understood the artistry of friendship just as well as he understood (and commanded) the complex artistry necessary to coax superlative sounds from a guitar. The world has lost a vital spirit. I miss him already, and I always will. I send my heartfelt condolences to dear Bev, and as well to Happy and Jane. Artie was truly blessed to have such a devoted and loving family.
Ed Renehan
Wickford, RI - July 21, 2008
I received a sad news from Woodstock one hour ago
that Artie has passed away. There were some words
in the news as "We lost a great friend today and we
are all so lucky to have known him". That's true.
I am too sad to weep now.
Hideaki "Pooh" Matsuoka
Kyoto, Japan - July 20, 2008
|
