Peter Pete Clemente

Peter "Pete" Clemente, 94, of 17 Granite Street, Worcester, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2009 in St. Vincent Hospital, in the presence of his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Leona D. (Sawyer) Clemente, who passed away on March 5, 2008. A native and life-long resident of Worcester, he was the son of Italian immigrants, Matteo and Raffaela (Tomaiolo) Clemente. He graduated from Commerce High School in 1933. Pete was a well-known and highly respected professional musician and guitar teacher. He began his career as a teenager, performing as a guitar soloist and with leading big bands of the period. His performances included solos on national radio broadcasts, as featured guitarist with the Dol Brissette Big Band and other orchestras. A gifted musician and a highly skilled guitarist, Pete was recognized as the first professional guitar teacher in Central Mass. He began his teaching career at Carl Seder's Music Store, and later at Forchielli Music Studio, both in Worcester. In the mid-60's he founded Clemente Music Studio, a guitar teaching establishment which has produced many professional guitarists. He has had an immeasurable impact on the guitar community in Central Mass. In his extended family, Pete's compelling musical presence has inspired numerous musical careers. Mr. Clemente has been recognized by former Worcester Mayor Joseph Early for outstanding musical contributions to the city, and also by former Massachusetts Governor Edward King for his many contributions of music to charitable organizations. He was a life member of the American Federation of Musicians. In addition to music, Pete was an accomplished gourmet cook who took pride and pleasure in preparing, with his beloved wife, wonderful meals for their family and friends. His happiest moments were spent at the family dinner table, embracing the rich traditions of his Italian heritage, of which he was so proud. Their "Sunday dinners" were a hallmark of their hospitality. These often included musical performances by Pete, playing guitar accompaniments for his wife, Leona, a coloratura soprano, often joined by other family members. These generously shared gifts of food and music have created profound and lasting impressions in the memories of their family and friends. He is survived by his devoted family: a daughter, Lucia Clemente Falco, and her husband Richard Falco; a son, Peter A. Clemente, and daughter-in-law Laurice; 3 grandchildren, Mattina C. Falco and Cassandra and Michael Clemente; a sister, Mary Consiglio of Shrewsbury; and many loving nieces and nephews. Besides his wife, he was also predeceased by a brother, Paul Clemente; and five sisters: Mary Lorito, Jennie Montiverdi Burns, Lucia Moossa, Lily Manganello, and Carolyn Pezanelli. The funeral will be held Friday, February 13, with a mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, 35 Hamilton Street, Worcester. He will be laid to rest at his wife's side in Notre Dame Cemetery. Calling hours at Mercadante Funeral Home and Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, are 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12. Donations in memory of Peter and Leona Clemente may be made payable to Children's Hospital Boston, and mailed to Children's Hospital Trust, 1 Autumn St. #731, Boston, MA 02215. With donations, please include a note that your gift is in memory of Peter and Leona Clemente. Or, donations may be made payable to Assumption College, and should be mailed to Office of Institutional Advancement, Assumption College, 500 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609. With donations, please designate the gift to the Department of Music, in memory of Peter and Leona Clemente. Online messages of condolence for both Peter Clemente and Leona Clemente may be recorded at www.mercadantefuneral.com.