Birth date: Mar 9, 1938 Death date: Nov 12, 2022
Bennett Lentczner, 84, died on November 12, 2022, at his home in Huntersville, NC. Like his father and mother before him, he “lived, loved and laughed” with respect and caring for all. Born in 1938 in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Lent Read Obituary
Dr. Lentczner conducting the North Shore High School Band, May 2022
Great memories from the NSHS Reunion, June 1981. Thank you Bennett!!
Bennett and I were bandmates at DeWitt Clinton High School and in the catskills during our teens. We missed each other at Julliard. A few years ago we managed to reconnect. He was always the kind quiet and studious one. He will be missed by many, may his memory and talents be a blessing to all
Ed Epstein.
I was very saddened to hear about Bennett. I am a member of Charlotte Concert Band and will miss his teaching and conducting our ensemble, with his many years of knowledge and and professionalism. He challenges us to raise our level of musicianship, beyond that of a community band. I had the pleasure of car pooling with him to rehearsals, in his final several months of his tenure with us. I got to know him on a different level , than that of a conductor. Will miss his not holding the baton and challenging us musically. I want to pass my condolences on to Linda and the rest of his family. He was a treasure and will be missed.
I agree with Ginger and I would add that I will always appreciate his kindness to my Aunt Judy and Uncle Don. David Johnson
Bennett was outstanding and passionate in his chosen field of music. He was also outstanding and passionate in the field in which I knew him - family. As my cousin's husband he shall be missed by us all.
Ginger Bailey
I too played under Bennett's baton in the Charlotte Concert Band, but also in the 15-piece Jericho Brass from the first time he conducted it until the last, just as the pandemic began. It was there that Bennett had unlimited artistic freedom, and he led us to a level of musicianship that in retrospect was truly remarkable. He took 15 brass players of varying abilities and made us into a cohesive musical unit that was greater than any of us could have ever imagined. He always addressed every minute detail, and would not accept anything less than our absolute best. The result was a glorious brass choir sound. He was an exceptional conductor, one of the very best I have ever played under, and I will never forget him.
Jesse Barbour
A scholar, a mentor, a teacher,… a wonderful being who was able to relate to tweens and teenagers. Our NSHS class of 1971 became putty in this wonderful man’s hands. He brought us through the difficult years of the late 60s into the birth of the 70s…… honor, respect, determination, community, hard work, and LOVE… Bennet, you are a big part of the person I am today.. I will never be able to thank you enough, and I will never forget all the gifts you unknowingly gave me. Rest in peaceful harmony🎶❤️… till we meet again 🙏❤️🙏Donna Slanina NSHS 1971
My most influential teacher. He taught us music and so much more. As the years went on I discovered how lucky we all were to have Bennett as our band director. We learned what it was to be excellent and not settle for anything less. Thank you Bennett, You were and always will be a part of who I am. Christopher Weber
In my time as a student of Bennett's, I was still too young and immature to understand the concept of mentorship, but it was happening even though I was unaware. Yes, he taught us music, wonderfully so! But there was so much more: he taught us mental toughness, resilience, and to never accept anything less than excellence - life skills that, sadly, are sorely lacking in today's world.
Bennett had a lot to do with who I am today as a musician, and who I was during my 35 year career as a music educator, and for that I am eternally grateful.
My prayers go out to the entire family. Rejoice in his life, and know that he made the world a better place in his time passing through.
Robert LaBarca
North Shore High School
