Re: [Harp-L] Ray Tankersley

["Michael Polesky, MPA" <m.polesky@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi All,

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Tom Stryker" <tstryker1@xxxxxxxxx>
> Ray Tankersley, an original Harmonica Rascal and tireless supporter of the
> harmonica passed away October 27th, 2008  He was 87 years old and is
> survived by his daughter Barbara and son Brad.  His wife Margie died some
> years ago. Ray appeared prominently, playing harmonica, in the movie 
> "Always
> In My Heart" and others
>
> Ray was a music educator, member of "Big Harp," and the "Sharp Harp." His
> harmonica credits and harmonica life are well detailed in Al Smith's 
> recent
> book "Confessions of Harmonica Addicts."
>
> To me personally, this is a great loss as I have known Ray for 53 years 
> and
> he is the one who taught me harmonica and responsible for my harmonica
> musical career.  He started teaching me when I was 15 in San Francisco..oh
> how long ago, lol.
>
> He will be remembered.

I just wanted to chime in about what a class act Ray Tankersley was.  I have 
fond memories of Ray consistently encouraging me to get as much joy out of 
the harmonica as I could possibly get.  Ray gave me the chance to fulfill my 
fantasy of playing at SPAH opening the show for the Saturday night banquet a 
few years ago in his harmonica orchestra.  Even more importantly, he helped 
amass a large library of music that he played and recorded with his student, 
Cynthia Dusel-Bacon.  They played as a duet showing off Ray's genius for the 
harmonica as Cynthia played the moving lead part on her hands free harmonica 
(Vern Smith).  Their duo was very special and a great testament to Ray's 
commitment to music education.

With Ray's consent, I inherited his seat in the duo with Cynthia just this 
year - since Ray couldn't make it to SPAH.  It was a great honor and I have 
a lot to live up to.  I definitely idolize what Ray accomplished over his 
lifetime and would be happy if I did half as much over mine.  Ray will 
definitely be remembered.

Michael