Dr. Paul A Steinberg, age 80, passed away on April 12, 2026. Born March 29, 1946, in Brooklyn, NY, Paul was an Emeritus Professor at the Crane School of Music. From 1979 to 2012 he taught theory, composition and electronic music, and founded the Potsdam Electronic Music Studio.
Paul received degrees in music composition from New Mexico State University, Southern Methodist University and the University of Oklahoma. He leaves a legacy of musical works, many of which combine electronic and acoustic instruments. Paul truly enjoyed his students and was gratified to continue to collaborate with them as they moved on to professional positions.
When Paul made friends, he kept them for life. He will be missed by former students and both childhood and college friends, and especially by his “other sister,” Jean Leaventon. Paul is survived by his wife, Sandra Steinberg; and his sons, David and Ben (Chelsea) Steinberg. He was predeceased by his twin sister, Judith, and his parents Ruth and David Steinberg.
Never an athlete himself, Paul delighted in his sons’ athletic successes and spent many hours by the soccer pitch or basketball court, schooling referees and cheering all the players.
Paul was stricken with Parkinson’s, and the family is eternally grateful for assistance from the Potsdam Rescue Squad, the caring staff at Canton Potsdam Hospital, and for the extraordinary support of neighbors and friends.
Donations in Paul’s memory may be made to the Potsdam Humane Society, 17 Madrid Ave., Potsdam, NY 13676 or online at potsdamhumanesociety.org
Arrangements are with Garner Funeral Service, Potsdam. Condolences for the family may be left at garnerfh.com
Memorial services are not planned at this time and will be at a later date at the discretion of the family.
