Baldwin’s 102-year-old orchestra conductor lifted the baton for the final time on Wednesday.
Bobby Ferrari and the Golden Tone Orchestra entertained the Merrick Golf Course crowd. Ferrari played the clarinet solo. He also plays flute and saxophone.
“My uncle was a music professor in Italy. When he came over, he taught the family to play instruments and sing…that’s how I started,” he says.
Born in 1920, Ferrari worked as a plant engineer at Grumman for 30 years while pursuing his love of music. He played in big bands and swing bands in New Orleans, as well as in various clubs on Long and his island.
Ferrari has also performed with celebrities such as Burt Bacharach.
Ferrari began conducting the Golden Tone Orchestra in 2000 at the age of 80. Wednesday marked the end of the group’s era as he stepped down from his role as bandleader.
But he says he will never retire his love of music.
“It’s emotional… it’s what you feel inside. You don’t just read it like a newspaper, the notes mean something,” says Ferrari.
Ferrari still lives alone and drives in various locations, including the final performance. He attributes his sharpness to hard work and staying active.
“Be proactive with people, keep up with the news… Get involved in activities. You can change things instead of just sitting back and accepting them,” he says.
Ferrari also says a little gratitude goes a long way.
“There is so much to do in this world, and I wish I could live another 102 years,” he says.
The Golden Tone Orchestra is made up of volunteers. Although it is mainly for the elderly, it can be used by a wide range of age groups.