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WHEREAS, Henry Caruso grew up in Carrick and later attended Duquesne University, where he studied Music Education, and spent four years teaching music in the Pittsburgh Public Schools before leaving to begin giving private instruction in voice, piano, and guitar; and
WHEREAS, he and Mrs. Christine Caruso set up shop at 1808 Brownsville Road, the heart of Carrick, on January 2, 1979, and devoted themselves to the instruction of music; soon after, they bought the building and took residence above the storefront, reflecting a tradition of dedicated entrepreneurs living and breathing their craft; and
WHEREAS, over the years, the Carusos and their instructors taught thousands of students how to sing and play the piano, guitar, drums, trumpet, clarinet, saxophone, violin, and trombone in their main street building with the iconic red sign; and
WHEREAS, for over twelve years the Carusos hosted and tutored youngsters at their Rock School, a six-week summer course that attracted guitarists, bassists, drummers, and keyboardists to jam together with the intent of honing their individual skills while learning to play unified as a team--an invaluable skill that serves one well not just on stage, but throughout all stages of life; and
WHEREAS, Caruso's Music became an anchor in the neighborhood, and earned a reputation for quality products, selling and renting all manner of musical equipment to customers in Carrick, greater Pittsburgh, and across the nation; and
WHEREAS, Henry and Christine remain dedicated to the South Pittsburgh community, having for many years assisted the Carrick-Overbrook Community Cornfest, St. Basil Catholic Parish, where they are long-time parishioners, and St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center, where Henry served as Director of Music; and
WHEREAS, after inspiring generations of creative and disciplined young men and women, Caruso's Music Store & Education Center closed its doors after 33 years on June 30, 2012, and though the community will miss the colorful storefront and family-oriented service, Henry and Christine are looking forward to continuing to foster our community's collective love of music through newfound endeavors;
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THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh honors the years of service the Caruso Family has provided to the neighborhood of Carrick; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, July 31, 2012 to be Caruso's Music Day in the City of Pittsburgh.