The legendary piano instructor of more than seventy-five years passed away at 93. Pictured: Rivoli Iesulauro entering the Niagara Falls Arts and Culture Wall of Fame, posing with Mayor Jim Diodati and other recipients. Photo Credit: Jim Diodati/X.
On Oct. 2, Niagara Falls lost one of its greatest residents. Rivoli Iesulauro, the legendary piano instructor of more than seventy-five years, passed away at 93.
Iesulauro’s musical career began eight decades ago when he was a teenager. He progressed through his piano studies quickly, and before long, he began his own teaching career. As a young man, he studied in Toronto and New York City. While living in The Big Apple, he was trained by the famous French musician Isidor Philipp (1863-1958). Under his tutelage, Iesulauro encountered the old world of classical music. Philipp himself had been mentored by those with scholarly connections that traced back to the greatest composers of all time.
After finishing his studies, Iesulauro returned to Niagara Falls, married his wife, Rita, and they raised their two children. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Iesulauro operated his studio out of the family home and shared his rare talent with hundreds of students.
Many of Iesulauro’s pupils went on to achieve remarkable success as musicians, both in Canada, and internationally. Some of the most prestigious examples include Niagara Falls native, renowned pianist, composer, and recording artist, Stephan Moccio, as well as concert pianists Dr. Stephanie Weaver and Dr. Jee Yeon Ryu.
In 2021, Iesulauro’s incredible life and musical accomplishments were celebrated citywide when he was inducted into the Niagara Falls Arts and Culture Wall of Fame.
“His dedication to music and to his students was inspiring. It was his lifelong passion,” Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said while reflecting on Iesulauro’s life and legacy. “He was a neighbour of our family for many years, and we all attended Saturday night mass at Our Lady of the Scapular Church.”
“I’m pleased looking back and knowing we were able to recognize Rivoli by inducting him into our Arts & Culture Wall of Fame. He will be missed by many, but he left a legacy that will live on.”
Niagara Falls MP Tony Baldinelli also expressed his sympathies and shared his gratitude to Iesulauro for a lifetime of educating local musicians.
“My deepest condolences to the family, friends, and former students of renowned Niagara Falls pianist, Rivoli Iesulauro,” Baldinelli stated. “Mr. Iesulauro had an incredible impact on our city’s arts and culture community. For over 75 years, he was an inspiration to so many young musicians in Niagara.”
“May his legacy be remembered through the beautiful music he created, performed, and through his passion, helped inspire hundreds of others to create and love.”
Many years ago, the author of this article had the privilege of taking piano lessons with Rivoli Iesulauro. He learned greatly from Rivoli’s tremendous musical knowledge, immense experience, and exceptional teaching techniques. However, as great as the music was, the conversation was even better.
Rivoli took a genuine interest in his students. This author always appreciated how he would ask me about school, what my family was up to, and what was new and exciting in my life. This author enjoyed it most when he would share vivid memories of a lifetime spent in our shared hometown of Niagara Falls.
Living through the 1930s and 40s provided Rivoli with a unique historical perspective that few people alive today would understand. The high price of freedom was forever impressed upon him from growing up during World War II. He lamented our world becoming a darker place and wanted younger generations to have the opportunity to enjoy the innocent fun of simpler times. Rivoli desired that our leaders would once again exemplify the old-fashioned values of honesty, integrity, and respect, creating a better world for his family, friends, students, and all of us.
My lessons with Rivoli concluded when this author started University. However, we always stayed in touch. Over the years, this author often walked by the Iesulauro home. It was a great feeling to know that Rivoli was still passing down his love of music to encores of students.
There is no doubt in my mind that the legend of Rivoli Iesulauro will live on for years to come, into the 22nd century, and beyond. His passion for the piano and zeal for mentoring young people will be honoured by his peers, remembered by his students, and imitated by those who aspire to his merit.
Godspeed, Rivoli. And, thank you… for everything.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
