John F. Mahoney, a resident of Long Lake, NY, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, December 11, 2023, at the age of 70. His life was a rich tapestry woven with threads of musical brilliance, from the dazzling lights of Broadway to the healing harmonies of music therapy. Born on September 16, 1953, in Weymouth, MA, to George W. and Catherine (Moog) Mahoney, John Mahoney’s journey was one marked by passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to the power of music.
From a young age, John Mahoney demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for music. Growing up in Weymouth, he began piano lessons at just 6 or 7 years old, attending parochial school and quickly immersing himself in the world of melodies and rhythms. His early musical experiences included sitting in with his father George’s jazz band, The North River Rats, showcasing his talent even in his youth. At Weymouth North High, graduating in 1971, John found kindred spirits in the music program, expanding his repertoire to include the accordion alongside the piano. His high school years were also shaped by the political currents of the late 60s and early 70s, experiences that further fueled his artistic and intellectual curiosity, ultimately guiding him towards a life dedicated to music.
John Mahoney pursued his passion for music by enrolling at the prestigious Hartt School of Music in Hartford, CT. He rigorously honed his skills, earning a Bachelor’s of Music degree in Piano Performance in 1976. Driven to excel, John moved to New York City, the epicenter of the performing arts, to carve his path in the music industry. His early days in the city were characterized by relentless hustle, playing piano for auditions and seizing every opportunity to earn a living and build his professional network. Continuing his academic pursuits, John Mahoney obtained a Master’s of Music degree in Piano Accompanying from the Manhattan School of Music in 1979, further solidifying his expertise and credentials.
John Mahoney’s career took a significant leap forward when he received a call that would lead him to the bright lights of Broadway’s Music Box Theatre. Initially hired as a rehearsal pianist for “Side by Side by Sondheim,” his talent and dedication soon earned him an onstage role. This marked the beginning of a successful Broadway career, with John contributing his musical talents to numerous smash hits, including “La Cage aux Folles” and “Evita.” His work on “Evita” coincided with the musical’s triumph at the 1979 Tony Awards, where it won Best Musical, a testament to the collaborative excellence he was part of. Always at the forefront of musical innovation, John Mahoney later joined New England Digital, mastering their revolutionary digital synthesizer, the Synclavier. This mastery opened doors to collaborations with music icons like Sting, Stevie Wonder, and Frank Zappa, pushing the boundaries of music production. Atlantic Records recognized his pioneering work and provided him with a dedicated Synclavier studio to produce and engineer music, leading to credits on recordings for a diverse range of artists. Notably, John Mahoney contributed to Paul Simon’s groundbreaking album “Graceland” (1987 Grammy winner for Album of the Year) and Billy Joel’s “Storm Front” (1990 Grammy winner for Record of the Year), solidifying his status as a sought-after and Grammy Award-winning musician and producer.
As the music recording industry underwent significant changes due to corporate consolidation, John Mahoney sought a new direction that aligned with his evolving passions. He made a profound shift towards music therapy, returning to academia to pursue a Master’s of Arts Degree in Music Therapy from New York University in 2001. Driven by a desire to deepen his understanding and impact in this field, he further earned a Ph.D. in Music Therapy from Temple University in 2012. Dr. John Mahoney became a respected music therapist and clinical supervisor at the Nordoff-Robbins Center for Music Therapy at NYU, shaping the next generation of music therapists. His leadership and vision culminated in SUNY New Paltz being recognized as the top music therapy master’s program in the United States in 2016, during his tenure as Music Therapy Program Director. This accolade underscored his significant contribution to the field of music therapy education.
In 1981, seeking respite from the intensity of city life, John Mahoney purchased land in the Adirondack State Park at Camp Greylock, the former site of a girls’ camp overlooking the serene Raquette Lake. With the help of his close friend Brian Johnson, whom he met at Hartt School of Music, he meticulously built a home that began as a getaway and evolved into a year-round sanctuary. John permanently moved to his Adirondack home in late 2020, finding peace and solace in the natural beauty surrounding him. In his later years, as his health declined, he often expressed his deep connection to his home, stating that he would only leave “in a box,” a testament to his love for his Adirondack retreat.
John Mahoney will be remembered for his brilliant mind, his tireless work ethic across multiple successful careers, and his profound love for his four children: Musa, Oceana, Mio, and Lynden. He was an avid reader and cherished his travels to France, visiting his mother’s family in Alsace Lorraine and exploring the cultural landmarks of Paris. Predeceased by his parents, John is survived by his children; his brothers Paul Mahoney (and wife Ghislaine) of Hampton, NJ, and Kevin Mahoney (and wife Mary) of Weymouth, MA; and nieces and nephews Sean, Patrick, and Caroline. A Celebration of Life is planned for the spring in the Adirondacks, where friends and family will gather to honor the remarkable life of John F. Mahoney. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Adirondack Foundation (www.adirondackfoundation.org) in his name, continuing his legacy of giving back to the community he cherished.
