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The City of Cortland Common Council recently declared Sunday, Jan. 7, as Four Musical Giants Day and hosted a concert in-memoriam of four individuals who enriched the lives of countless people through their teaching, inspiration, leadership and musical performance. They included Donna K. Anderson, professor emerita of music, who worked at SUNY Cortland more than 30 years, and Samuel L. Forcucci, who retired after 34 years as professor and chairman of the music department, along with Barbara Pauldine and Donna Yacavone.

The proclamation described each person’s work and career including the following:

Samuel L. Forcucci lived a life in service to his country and community; his musical influence spanning 34 years as a music instructor at SUNY Cortland, 31 years as music director at St. Anthony’s and 21 years as director of the Old Timer’s Band.

Donna K. Anderson was an endearing member of the SUNY Cortland music faculty for 30 years, and shared her gifts as a pianist with the community, students and colleagues among whom she was greatly admired.