Condolence: I was so deeply saddened to learn of Mr. Faranda’s passing. His presence in this world is dearly missed. But, wow – what a life well lived! He was, by far and away, one of the most positive influences and personalities in my life, especially during my adolescence (such an important time). When I first started learning to play the flute (in a different school district), I knew it was something I really wanted to do, but I was often frustrated and felt like I just wasn’t “getting it”. Then, I started taking lessons with Mr. Faranda, and it was like a key that suddenly opened the door to the world of music, and everything started making clear sense. With his tutelage, support, and guidance, I eventually went on to two of some of the greatest music colleges in the world, and from there, seamlessly into a full-time performance career. And, I know this wouldn’t have happened without Mr. Faranda. He truly had the gift of the pedagogue (in the most respectful meaning of the word), and he recognized each of his students’ potentials and aimed at getting each of us to reach the height of our individual abilities. He never had unfair expectations; he could just see the inherent talent in each of us. Some students came to him not really wanting to learn, and so they did not have such a great time, as he did not tolerate laziness, but he just wanted each of us to do our level best. Many of my bandmates in high school studied with him, and as such, we had one of the best high school bands in the area. The woodwind section was solid. Many of them moved on to careers in music. He taught with such a wonderfully positive, nurturing, and encouraging attitude to those who were sincere.
Not only was he a phenomenal teacher, but an equally amazing musician (and that combination is a rare gift!) He invited me to see him play a jazz gig in Yonkers, and I was totally blown away. That man could wail on any of his chosen instruments, truly amongst the greatest! For those who were blessed enough to study with him, it was an honor of a lifetime.
I will forever hold his memory with great reverence, and will be forever grateful for how he helped shape my life and appreciation of music. Thank you, sincerely, Mr, Faranda

Condolence: Herk was a wonderful musician that I had the good fortune to work with on many gigs. He always had a a great air of enthusiasm and warmth.

Condolence: My sister and I studied with Mr. Faranda for many years growing up, and continued to stay in touch with him well into our college/post-grad years. He was the greatest teacher I or she ever had, and my family adored and respected him beyond words. He has always been and always will be my biggest role model in life. He was warm, wise, humorous, and positive, among so much else, and cared incredibly deeply for each and every one of his students. Never did he doubt the potential of any of his students' ability. Simply put, he was the best, and brought out the best in everyone's lives he touched. I will forever cherish the time I was fortunate enough to spend with him. Thank you for everything Mr. Faranda.

Condolence: We were shocked and so very saddened to hear of Hercules' passing. We would see him several times a week walking along Washington Avenue, and whenever the opportunity arose, stop and speak for a few moments.

Because we saw Hercules fairly often, I (Artie) would tell my wife stories. Like how he would stick TWO saxophones in his mouth and play them simultaneously. How, when my great-grandmother Paula Belli passed away, we went to the funeral and there we found you all there. What a surprise it was to learn that we are related by marriage!

His tragic death is not only a loss for the ones who knew and loved him, but for our entire community.

We pray for peace and comfort in your time of mourning.

Condolence: Mr. Faranda was my flute teacher for eleven years. He taught me everything I know about the flute, but more importantly, he was the best teacher I have ever had, and a huge influence on my life. He showed me the virtues and the rewards of hard work and practice, he always had faith in me and believed in my abilities even when I did not achieve the most, and he always made me feel like he cared about me, and all his other students. I will remember Mr. Faranda for the rest of my life as the best teacher I have ever had, and a man who changed the lives of every single one of his students. He really used his passions to better the world, one student at a time. I am just thankful I was able to have such an amazing teacher and role model.

Condolence: I studied flute under Herk in the mid-1980s when I was in high school. He was a major influence in my musical life and I have thought of him many many times in the years since I had the honor of studying with him. He gave me confidence that carried into other aspects of my life. So sorry to hear of this tragic loss. May he rest in peace.

Condolence: I will remember Mr. Faranda as the sweet, caring man who inspired me to become the music teacher I am today. Some of my most fond childhood memories were my flute and saxophone lessons in his studio. He opened my world to music, my own potential as a performer, and sparked within me a love of teaching others. Thank you so much for everything Mr. Faranda!!

Condolence: Few walk through life touching as many lives as Herk did. His work, his life lives on in song.

Condolence: My heart goes out to the Faranda family for this terrible loss. Not only was Herc a dear friend but a master musician and teacher and everyones live's are better for having known him and his spirit. He truly led a life to be celebrated.

With Love,
Glenn