The California State University Northridge Department of Music is deeply saddened by the unexpected tragic passing of alum Benny Golbin (2003, BM Jazz Studies).
Professor Jerry Luedders, one of Benny’s saxophone teachers, says, “Benny had GREAT talent, but he was a student who was always striving to be better. He was grateful and appreciative of everyone. Benny is what we all aspire to be.”
Before his untimely passing, Golbin taught music at Children of Promise Preparatory Academy in Inglewood. According to the Los Angeles Times, he was known as “the kind of teacher who always made time for every kid.” Benny also taught woodwind ensembles at elementary schools in the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District and he taught private and group lessons at AMUSE, the Palos Verdes Music Center.
“He was a kind-hearted, genuine, tender and extremely talented soul,” according to Jazz Professor Gary Pratt. “It boggles my mind that he’s no longer with us, but his memory will stay with us forever. I’m grateful to have been here so that I could share this time on earth with Benny Golbin.”
To honor Benny Golbin, the CSUN Department of Music will be offering the Benny E. Golbin Memorial Scholarship. If you would like to make a gift to the Benny Golbin Memorial Scholarship fund, please make checks payable to "CSUN Foundation", note "In Memory of Benny Golbin" on your check, and send to CSUN Foundation, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330-8296. To make a gift online, go to https://givetomike-curb-arts-media-communication.csun.edu/ and put "In Memory of Benny Golbin" in the special instructions box. Thank you for your generous gift in memory of Benny.