I'll have to ask Gene if he used the Varitone, as he had never mentioned it to me. I know Rusty Bryant did on some later recordings.
I never cared much for that sound myself.
Were you aware that Gene played on David Baby Cortez' "The Happy Organ". ;-)?
He shared that with me.
As far as Gloria's services, a memorial celebration will be scheduled for sometime in the spring but here is a letter I received from George, Jr.
It was posted over on a saxophone web, too, so I assume the service is not private, however you might want to check first if you are thinking of attending. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend.
Here is the link to the funeral home and Gloria's obituary.
http://www.cottonfuneralservice.com/pg003.php?shw=1&obt=623
--------------------------------
Dear Friends,
The services for our mother, Gloria Coleman will take place on March 11, 2010 and March 12, 2010.
The viewing will be conducted on Thursday, March 11, 2010 from the hours of 5:00PM to 9:00PM at the Cotton-Parker Funeral Home.
The funeral service will be conducted on Friday, March 12, 2010 from the hours of 12:00PM to 1:00PM at the Cotton-Parker Funeral Home. Upon the completion of the funeral service our mother will be brought to Rosedale Cemetery for interment.
Thank you,
The Coleman Family
Cotton-Parker Funeral Home
1025 Bergen Street
Newark, NJ 07112
973-926-6400
In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the Dizzy Gillespie Memorial Fund at Englewood Hospital.
The Dizzy Gillespie Memorial Fund is 100% donor-supported fund that helps underwrite the costs of hospitalization, diagnostic tests, and a full range of surgical and medical care for jazz musicians who are uninsured and without the ability to pay.
If you wish, donations may be made by check, payable to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Foundation, 350 Engle Street, Englewood, NJ 07631; or by credit card, by calling 201-894-3725. Please indicate that you wish your donation to go to The Dizzy Gillespie Memorial Fund.