'Ronnie Menezes was not only a good pianist, but also a good accompanist'

Updated On: 10 April, 2021 01:42 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto

In pianist Ronnie Menezes’s passing, Mumbai musicians mourn the loss of a mentor and icon of Indian jazz

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Ronnie Menezes performing at the Palladium mall in Lower Parel. Photo: Colin D'Cruz

Mumbai-based jazz icon Ronnie Menezes passed away from complications arising due to Covid-19 on April 6. Beloved in recent years for filling the foyer of Lower Parel’s Palladium mall with sweet piano sounds but the 81-year-old had a vast influence over Indian jazz in the decades before.

Many in the city’s music circle received the sad update Tuesday evening through a WhatsApp message from Colin D’Cruz, the pianist’s one-time bandmate.
“An Indian jazz icon Ronnie Menezes passed away. His son Roger called and could barely speak through his tears. An unforgettable musician for me as my first jazz concert was with him. May his soul rest in peace.”