Eric R.T. Seyfried, musician, teacher and choral director, died recently of natural causes after a lengthy illness at his home in Wantagh. He was 60. Eric studied music at NYU and received his master's degree from Queens College and professional diploma from C.W. Post, LIU. He began his career in the North Babylon School District followed by 34 years in the Freeport Public Schools where he served as director of music in the late '70s.

During his career Eric was a member of the Suffolk County Music Education Association (SCMEA), the Nassau Music Educators Association (NMEA) (he served as president from 1979 to 1980) and was a member and adjudicator for the NYS School Music Association (NYSSMA). He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club of Wantagh.

Eric's choral directing included the Amityville Chorale Society and the Oceanside Chorale. He was the second director of the Bel Canto Chorale from which he retired just last December. He was organist/choir director at the Wantagh Congregational Church for nine years and then director of music at the Episcopal Church of St. Jude in Wantagh.

Eric leaves behind his beloved wife, Janice, who is a past Lt. Governor of the LI South Central Division of Kiwanis International; his children, Eric and Kristin; and Aunt Ruth Muller. Contributions can be made in Eric's memory to "Kamp Kiwanis," NY Kiwanis District Foundation, 9020 Kiwanis Rd., Taberg, NY 13471.