I'm so very sorry to hear of the passing of Ronald.
He was an inspiring teacher, wonderful colleague and friend.  He had the most wonderful insights into music and teaching.  I remember going to him one time, maybe at a past convention, and expressing doubts on my capability in sharing with students, the correct interpretation. 
He assured me that what was true for me in music would be the best path. That thought, and others, I have treasured.  I know we all carry his precious thoughts and expressions in our hearts. And with every great teacher, he shared these to us so we might shower them on our students and colleagues, as well.
Thank you, dear friend, and with much love,
Shari

Mr. Bennett was my piano teacher for 10 years - elementary through high school - one of the most influential people of my whole life.  I still play piano and benefit from everything he taught me.  Condolences to his son, Ron, and to the Odessa community for the loss of a great influence in the area of arts and music.

Ronald Bennett is my favorite composer.  I am so sorry to read this.  I will miss him.
Jean Moffatt
Seminole

Ronald Bennett was my piano teacher from my elementary through high school years.   He truly impacted my life, and honestly, I wouldn't be who I am today had it not been for him.  He taught me to play the piano and instilled in me the confidence that I have to this day.  I still play professionally, mostly as an accompanist for school choirs or for vocal and instrumental soloists in recitals and contests.  I occasionally fill in as an accompanist for churches.  My piano skills have helped immensely in my career as a public school choral director and as a church musician.  I began singing in choirs in junior high and high school.  I did not become a soloist until Ronald and his wife, Dortha, encouraged me and gave me a few suggestions for solos to sing in church at the First Christian Church in Odessa.  Their encouragement led me to audition for a vocal music scholarship at Texas Tech University where I majored in music education with voice as my major.  I remember each of my piano lessons ended with a silly joke or story from Mr. Bennett.  I have missed the anecdotes,  jokes, and riddles. He always made me smile.  Mr. Bennett was a master teacher. He had a tremendous amount of patience.  He also taught my brother piano and even my mother took some lessons from him!  We all learned from Mr. Bennett!   He made me want to practice so that I could attend my lessons fully prepared and wanting to learn more.  I will always remember Mr. Bennett with great fondness. He was one of a kind and loved by all who knew him. I think of him every time I play.

Mr. Bennett was talented, kind, and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was an inspiration to many. May he find eternal peace.

OBITUARY

Ronald C Bennett

November 4, 1935 – December 7, 2023

Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home

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