Amazing young Jazz piano player Pittsburgh native Derrick Finch is killed in a car crash in Los Angeles on 2-17-09

by Waberi

Feb 20, 2009

I was just returning to 'The Village', walking over to my friend Matt to say hello and he informed me a few minutes ago that Derrick Finch was lost to us in a car accident. My breath literally leapt from my chest. I knew Derrick Finch quite well here in Los Angeles. I called him Dr. He stumbled over the correct pronunciation of my name... it was an inside joke we shared - and we shared it about a week ago here in Leimert Park. Dr. Finch was a brilliant man. He loved Jazz. HE LOVED JAZZ. His musicality was singular - one could tell in a very few notes when Dr. Finch was playing. He was full of life, happy and always smiling. His music was like that too. Matt and I were just musing about him 2 weeks ago, because we hadn't seen him since the new year had begun... smiling at the growth in character and musicianship and scholarship we had been so honored to witness and share with him. And happy to that we are all a part of this tremendous and brilliant musical family... how nice it is to know him. And to have had the absolute honor to play with him is an ever-evolving gift. I learned something new each and every time I sang with him. His gift of accompaniment is so dear and special for a vocalist. I still remember certain sets we played as next level - type experiences. From Leimert Park in Los Angeles, we send love and condolences to his family and loved ones. He will be missed immensely. Below, is a bit of video of Dr. Finch at the Benefit/Healing Gathering for Nate Morgan, December 26, 2008 @ The World Stage, Leimert Park... he comes in @ about 2:26 Remember to tell those your love that you love them.

  • Ed Skirtich

    Hi All,

    I'm totally shocked and saddened by the news of Derrick Finch's death

    Derrick was a very caring, warm, and embracing young man.

    I played trumpet and Derrick Finch played piano in the University of Pittsburgh Jazz Ensemble.

    Also, Derrick worked with me at The Jazz Workshop, Inc. in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh, PA.
    Derrick and I were both teachers at The Jazz Workshop, Inc.

    Currently, I'm the Artistic Director of Jazz Workshop, Inc.

    Derrick and family and friends you are all in my family's sympathy and prayers.

    May God Bless Derrick Forever!

    Ed Skirtich
    Artistic Director/Jazz Workshop, Inc.
    ejskirtich@comcast.net
    (412) 422-4149 (H)
    (412) 841-8046 (C)
    Derrick was a terrific bandleader, music educator, musician, and human being.

    We will miss him, but I know some day we'll be jammin' with him in Heaven.

    Feb 20, 2009

  • LRob

    I am cousin of Derrick Finch Thank You to all.


    SongWriter/Musician

    Feb 23, 2009

  • Rosie from L.A., CA

    My boyfriend and I had the pleasure of meeting Derrick after listening to his music when he played at the Pasadena Jazz Institute in Pasadena, CA. He was absolutely awesome. As we left the venue, Derrick was standing outside during a break. We walked up to him to tell him how much we enjoyed his music. He was so pleasant, very approachable, great personality. He talked about his work and school. A very interesting man. After that, he always took the time to tell us hello when he would see us in the audience. We noticed he wasnt around and ran into him again during New Years at PJI. We told him we missed seeing him and he mentioned he was now playing at the Brazilian Restaurant across the walkway (from PJI). We showed up the next night. We were able to get a table right near him (a trio). During his break he came and shared a glass of wine with us. No matter how busy he was, he always said hello. We've only had the pleasure of listening to Derrick's music for maybe a year or so. When he told us he wanted to return to Pittsburgh, I told him we would definitely miss his music. Unbelievable tragedy. An amazing talent. A beautiful soul. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. We'll miss you Derrick. Your fans, Rosie & Tom, L.A.,CA

    Feb 26, 2009