Michael Ernest Renzi (April 28, 1941 – September 29, 2021) was an American composer, music director, pianist, and jazz musician. Renzi graduated from the Boston Conservatory in 1973 and from Berklee College of Music in 1974.[1] He was a musical director for Peggy Lee and Mel Tormé for over 25 years.[2] He worked on Sesame Street as the music director for seasons 31 through 40 and led the Mike Renzi Trio.[3]

Mike Renzi
Renzi, c. 2009
Renzi, c. 2009
Background information
Born(1941-04-28)April 28, 1941
Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.
DiedSeptember 29, 2021(2021-09-29) (aged 80)
Newport, Rhode Island, U.S.
GenresJazz, vocal jazz, traditional pop
Occupation(s)Musician, singer, arranger, composer, musical director
Instrument(s)Piano, vocals
Years active1962–2021

He died in Newport, Rhode Island, on September 28, 2021, at the age of 80.[4][5]

Discography

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With Lena Horne

With Maureen McGovern

With Mel Torme

  • Mel Torme and Friends (Finesse, 1981)
  • Torme/Encore at Marty's New York (Flair, 1982)
  • An Evening with Mel Torme (Concord Jazz, 1996)

With Grady Tate

  • Grady Tate Sings TNT (Milestone, 1991)
  • Body & Soul (Milestone, 1993)
  • Feeling Free (Pow Wow, 1999)

With others

References

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  1. ^ "RIP Mike Renzi". Newport Buzz. October 6, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2021.
  2. ^ "Peggy Lee's official website". Chuck Pulin. 2003. Retrieved July 2, 2008.
  3. ^ "Cyrille Aimee wins the first Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Competition". NJ.com. October 21, 2012. Retrieved January 26, 2017.
  4. ^ Genzlinger, Neil (October 14, 2021). "Mike Renzi, a Jazz Singer's Best Friend, Dies at 80". The New York Times. Archived from the original on October 15, 2021. Retrieved October 14, 2021.
  5. ^ Composer and Musical Director Mike Renzi Dies at 80
  6. ^ Adderton, Donald V. (May 1, 1998). "Sanders' jazzy sounds shine through on CD". Biloxi Sun Herald. p. 62. Retrieved February 14, 2023.
  7. ^ "'Anyone Would Love You' Personnel". WorldCat.
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