10/08/2024
I am deeply saddened by the passing of the brilliant mentor, teacher, and all-around exceptional human being, Dennis Tini. His influence on my life and the lives of countless others is immeasurable.
I first met Professor Tini as a freshman at Wayne State University in Detroit during the late 1970s. I was an undeclared major with no clear direction, but I knew I loved to sing. One day, I came across a recruitment poster for the Choral Union in the Student Union. Something about it drew me in, so I nervously made my way to the music building to inquire about joining. I knocked on the first open door I could find, and there he was—Professor Tini. With his warm smile and encouraging presence, he asked me to sing a few scales.
That one small encounter would change my life. An hour later, I was no longer an undecided student. I was a vocal performance major, chosen by one of the most gifted musicians and conductors I have ever known. In a single afternoon, he saw potential in me that I didn’t even know was there. It was Professor Tini who gave me my first voice teacher Jeanette Dagger, one who would profoundly shape my journey as a singer. It was he who entrusted me with the opportunity to be a soprano soloist for the Dvořák Te Deum, setting me on a path I had never imagined for myself.
What set Professor Tini apart wasn’t just his extraordinary musical talent, though that was breathtaking. It was the way he modeled excellence, hard work, passion, and discipline in everything he did. As a conductor, his ability to bring music to life was awe-inspiring. As a mentor, his belief in his students was unwavering, and that belief gave us the courage to dream bigger and work harder than we thought possible.
I will forever be grateful for the time I spent under his guidance. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. Rest in peace, Professor Tini, and thank you for helping me—and so many others—find our voice.
May his memory be eternal.
