As an eighteen year old college freshman, I had to be the most fortunate instrumental music major in the world. My four years of undergraduate school were identical to the four years that John Locke served as director of bands at Southeast Missouri State University. You might say we were both "rookies" as this was his first full-time university position as "director of bands." Dr. Locke (then "Mr.") was a true inspiration to me. Here was a gentleman in his mid-twenties, new to the Midwest, fresh out of graduate school, attempting to don the respect of students that had been in a band of a legend; LeRoy Mason. Not knowing Mr. Mason may have been an advantage for me, however I don't believe it would have mattered. Dr. Locke was extremely insightful, very professional, and could make humor out of the most interesting situations. I was always impressed with his ability to learn the names of everyone so quickly. This allowed him the opportunity to always address you, properly, and give you the attention you may need. Dr. Locke always had time for you. No matter what the time of day, topic, or problem you may have had, he was ready to be an ear. As I progressed through my undergraduate years, I had the pleasure of playing in the wind ensemble for three of my four years. As a tuba major, I had to wait my turn to move up the "ladder". Maybe I had shown promise as a "green hand" as the ensemble was void of a euphonium player, and he asked me if I had ever played that instrument. Luckily I had, and the end result was phenomenal. I was so fortunate to play in that select group for three years. Dr. Locke was a master of the baton and the material. It was such a joy to be in his top ensemble that I had to be in the second band, when my schedule would allow. When I considered graduate school, he was quick to listen to my plans, then give advice. The end result was favorable. His opinion was "right on", as usual. Since my time at Southeast in the late 1970's, I have had the privilege of serving as president of our state bandmasters association. It was with great pleasure that I was able to secure the services of Dr. Locke to come to Missouri to provide a clinic at our summer convention and conduct the all-state band. This gave 106 students and our membership an opportunity to work under an incredible conductor and educator. Hardly a day goes by that I don't think of something from my past connected with Dr. Locke. I believe it is no coincidence that Dr. Locke has given clinics at Midwest and has also performed at CBDNA and ABA conferences. That is a testimonial to his knowledge, skill, and talent. I will always cherish what he inspired me to do and how to treat people. I look forward to my annual trip to Midwest where I have a chance to say "hi", and, "thanks".

Tribute submitted by:
Kurt Bauche
Director of Bands
Farmington R-7 School District
Farmington, Missouri

I consider Erik Janners to be my mentor both for his unending knowledge about music and teaching, but also for his loyalty as my friend. I first met him when he was my band director at St. Xavier University, and we have stayed in contact since his move to Marquette University. Erik is about the only teacher I've ever had who genuinely cares about his students. I've had many teachers who say they care, but do not make the effort to show it. Erik has always gone the extra step to ensure not only that I know he really cares, but to make sure I'm having the best possible experience on all fronts.

As his student, I never felt unappreciated; nor was I ever afraid to make a mistake. In class, Erik always was more concerned that we were learning, rather than simply giving out grades. In band, he was always more concerned that we were improving as musicians and enjoying our experience. Even now that he is teaching at a different school, Erik will always take the time to answer my emails and help me if I have a problem with something. I'm considering becoming a college band director myself, and the advice I've gotten from him is invaluable.

Upon his leaving St. Xavier, Erik and I have really developed a close friendship as well. Not unlike when he was my teacher, he is always there when I need him. Erik is my mentor because he is the first teacher I've ever had who can effectively balance amazing musical ability, humility, AND enjoyment of his work. He is very good at what he does, but is still concerned that it is a good experience for the students above all. He is also very confident in what he can do, but is not too proud to admit when he's made a mistake. That is the kind of balance I hope to attain as a musician, and to see it lived out has been such an inspiration. Erik has always encouraged me and pushed me to be the best I can be. He always had confidence in me (and still does) which makes me work that much harder.

Although I'm still a student, I have found myself passing on so much of the advice Erik has given me to others both at my school and elsewhere. So much of what he has to offer not only applies to music, but to life. His countless life-lessons and "quotes of the day" have also been a great source of inspiration. I know the positive effects they have had on me and hope to pass that inspiration on to my peers and, someday, my future students. Erik is also one of the most positive people I know, which is wonderfully refreshing to be around, both as his student and as his friend.

I think having a mentor is so important in music education. Not only does it provide the student with someone to look up to and model their behavior after; it also provides a safe atmosphere for the student. To know that you have someone to go to whenever you need them is a feeling beyond words. To know that Erik's door was always open if I needed something (ANYTHING) was one of the greatest assurances I could have had as a student. Whether I was having a good day or a bad day, he was always there to listen and/or offer advice.

Erik had a mentor while in graduate school whom he looked up to and who taught him many of the same valuable lessons Erik has taught me. I look up to him the same way and hope to someday pass on all of that knowledge to MY students. If every student had someone like Erik to learn from, (cliche as it may sound) the world truly would be a better place.

Tribute submitted by:
Rachel Dalrymple
Tinley Park, Illinois

The highlight of my doctoral study was the opportunity to study advanced conducting with Wayne Gorder. As my primary teacher, he introduced me to innovative and advanced methods of musical analysis that expanded my theoretical knowledge and challenged my thinking in all areas. Wayne is a demanding taskmaster who has a unique ability to inspire individual creativity and novel approaches to problem solving. He epitomizes that ideal model of academic excellence to which we all aspire.
Dr. Gorder also served as co-advisor for my dissertation as well as providing precise and exacting scholarly counsel for all of my research projects. He thoroughly understands the research process, and is able to make indispensable contributions to experimental, descriptive and historical research based on his broad knowledge and experience. As an academic mentor, I found him to be without peer. He was unselfish in his support and interest. His knowledge and enthusiasm encouraged me to persevere during difficult times, and he never failed to accommodate my requests for guidance.
All of my educational experiences with Wayne Gorder have been of the highest quality. I consider the time that I spent completing my doctorate to be possibly the most valuable and enlightening episode of my professional career. This is directly related to Wayne’s input.
Wayne has since become one of my most trusted advisors during my professional career. He is always available to provide much-needed perspective and counsel, and I am proud to refer to him as a professional colleague. He is deserving of a level of gratitude far greater than can be expressed here.

D. Hayslett

Tribute submitted by:
Dennis Hayslett
Helena, Montana

In highest esteem and most humble appreciation, I thank you for the ways in which you have nurtured my dreams in this, the most noble of professions. I aspire to be the kind of music educator you have been and continue to be.

Tribute submitted by:
April Enos
Band Director
Plainfield School District
Plainfield, Illinois

Mr. Paul and Mrs. Virginia Egli were my music mentors from sixth grade until I graduated from college. Mrs. Egli was my beginning band instructor and junior high band director. I began formal music training as a trumpet student in the beginning sixth grade band. Mr. Egli taught in the music department at Greenville College. (My hometown was Greenville, IL.) As a husband and wife "team", the Eglis were excellent mentors. I was fortunate to study private piano with Mrs. Egli, while Mr. Egli was my private trumpet teacher. As a high school student, I was also given the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the Greenville College Band. Mr. Egli had been trained at VanderCook College of Music before becoming a secondary music educator in Indiana. I am so thankful to have had such caring and knowledgeable musicians with which to work! Mr. Egli is now deceased, and Mrs. Egli is retired and living in Arizona. In fact, a few years ago, she forwarded me a copy of one of my adjudication sheets from contest. It seems like they have never stopped mentoring... I am still most grateful to have been a student of Mr. and Mrs. Egli.

Tribute submitted by:
Marsha Etzkorn
Music Director
St. Mary's School, Edwardsville, IL
Edwardsville, Illinois

Richard Kole was my high school band director at Jefferson HS in San Antonio, TX. He taught me the true meaning of excellence in performance. I was likely one of the most unruly of his students, yet was enabled by his patience and his teaching to be a successful band director. In clinics, to this date, I still use many of his techniques in teaching today's young musicians. He was an inspiration to me then and an even greater one now, even though I have left the full- time music profession. He was/is a master teacher and an incredible musician. Maybe through this tribute he will be made more aware of how much he has meant to me through the years and how very much I appreciate him giving me chance after chance after chance! Thanks Mr. Kole! (...still just can't call him Dick, even though he's asked).

Douglas Fry was my college band director at Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX. "Fessor", as we knew him, had the rare ability to teach his students how to run a band program on a day to day basis--not just theory, but practicalities. Yes, we learned about fine playing and good literature, but we learned how to deal with our students, parents, and administrators. We learned how to budget, to plan trips, buy uniforms, design a band hall, chart marching shows (no computers to do it back in the 1960's), and so very much more. Trips to his ranch on weekends taught us about how to live life and to give back. He was my second father then and at the good age of 91 remains so today. Thanks Fessor!

Tribute submitted by:
Allan Brumley
Retired Band Director
n/a
Harlingen, Texas

Dixie Detgen is the reason I enjoy teaching more now than at any other time in my 26 year career. She became my mentor ten years ago when I hired her for an all day clinic. Lessons I've learned from her have made my teaching more efficient and more effective. Her insistence that I attend the Midwest Clinic makes me look forward to attending each and every year. Thank You, Dixie! You've made a difference to our profession by sharing your knowledge with many of us.

Tribute submitted by:
Carolyn Sherrill
band director
St. Gerard School
Okemos, Michigan

I would like to thank Marcellus Brown Director of Bands at Bosie State University.

All through my career he has consistently challenged me to surpass my goals as a musician and as a conductor.

Every year we would meet at the Midwest Band Clinic and have dinner after a performance and discuss my career goals and objectives. He constantly made me aware that everyone has weaknesses and that one can not grow until they acknowledge them. So no matter how good you are there is always room for improvement.


Thank You again Marcellus Brown


Ramon W. Key Jr.
Director of Bands
Central State University
Wilberforce, Ohio

Tribute submitted by:
Ramon Key
Director of Bands
Central State University
Chicago, Illinois

Two giants, two great men, two wonderful musicians, two talented conductors, two trusted colleagues, two knowing mentors, and two dear friends. So many of us would use these terms to decsribe Bob Zellner and John Casagrande. Fortune smiled on me twice, because I was a lucky student of both.

Bob Zellner may be the most patient teacher I have ever met. His persistence, his teaching instincts, and his talents were always on display for his students-- in a lesson, in a small group, or in ensemble rehearsals. His methods and techniques always worked, and they still do to this day for those of us who can remember them!! His love for his students was evident in the time he took to guide and prod each and every one of us toward, and beyond, our own goals.

John Casagrande may be the most demanding teacher I have ever met. His insistence on excellence, his refusal to accept less, and his passion for music are "givens"-- and he has the same standards for his students, his colleagues, and himself. His love for his students is evident in his daily expectations for excellence, his willingness to share his passions, and his desire to seek nothing but the best for all.

Somehow saying "thank you" this way does not begin to repay all of what they have each given so freely, but it is my hope that this short tribute might provide a spark for each of them to reflect for a time on what they have meant to their many students, colleagues, and friends through so many years of caring, fostering, pushing, guiding, leading, teaching, and in fact, transforming the very lives they touched through music.

Tribute submitted by:
Stan Schoonover
Music Specialist
Fairfax County Public Schools
Fairfax, Virginia

While Dr. Welch wasn't my official advisor, he was the one that I went to for career and personal advice, and is the one that I still turn to. I can’t count the number of letters of recommendation that he has written for me, and the number of phone calls that I have made to him, asking, “Now what should I do?” He has always had time for my questions about academic protocol, salary structures, band rehearsals, auditions, tenure reviews, promotional procedures, publishing, conferences, research, and finances.

The Iowa dinners at Midwest are an annual highlight, and I'm always impressed that Dr. Welch is always able to introduce everyone and what they're doing--no matter the size and breadth of the group. He authentically is interested in the lives of all of his past students, and with his retirement in 2008, I'd like to wish him and his family the very best.

Tribute submitted by:
Bruce Gleason
Associate Professor of Graduate Music Education
University of St. Thomas
St. Paul, Minnesota

My college career at Jacksonville State University (AL) was touched by many gifted musicians and educators, but none more than Dr. David Walters. Not only did I learn the skills I would need as a music educator from Dr. Walters, I learned how to conduct myself in any and all situations. My demeanor in the classroom, my calm in difficult situations and my attempt to approach each student with the same amount of respect is a direct reflection of the way that Dr. Walters conducts himself to this day. Then there are the educators with whom I still work. They are there to listen to my complaints or concerns, to share in my positive accomplishments, to let me know when I am out of line and most importantly to listen to my groups and help me prepare my students. Dr. David Gregory, Ron Biffle, and Ed Davis produced programs that I use as models to emulate. These gentlemen continue to teach me that the education of the well rounded musician is second only to the cultivation of a young man or woman with positive ideals.

Tribute submitted by:
Steven Tyndall
Band Director
Rising Starr M.S., Fayetteville, GA
Peachtree City, Georgia

Mr. Green,

Thank you for a lifetime made rich and full by music. Throughout your career, you've been a great example to me, as well as to countless others. But, it's been my great privilege to be a part of the Gary Green legacy from the very beginning of your teaching career many years ago. For me, these gifts all happened because one day in August 1970 you took the time to make a phone call. For that, I will always be deeply grateful!

Tribute submitted by:
Dave Booth
Director of Bands
Wright State University
Centerville, Ohio

Mr. Emerson Able Jr. certainly played a vitally important role in the development of my musical ability, but also as it pertains to developing good character and integrity. I performed on several musical instruments during my high school years while being a member of the Manassas High School Marching, Concert and Jazz Bands. Mr. Able exemplified a tremendous work ethic and motivational techniques that inspired all of us to become better students both musically and academically. He constantly focused on practicing and honing in on certain skills necessary to acquire a music scholarship, he worked with the utmost tenacity when practicing with the band in rehearsals and during performances. Mr. Able was a very organized band director who had a vision for his band program and his students, often he would talk about life through the use of music and ultimately this type of teaching approach was more beneficial to those of us who did not pursue music as a career. The students under Mr. Able's baton displayed excellent student musicianship, pride, enthusiasm, a tenacious work ethic and perseverance. I am very proud to say that it was indeed a pleasure and a privilege to have served under the magnificent direction of Mr. Emerson Able. I was a band director for nearly 24 years and during this time, I discovered that many of my motivational speeches and overall teaching strategies were inspired by one of the greatest band directors in the country and this is truly a fact based on our ratings in contest at the local, state and national levels. Currently, Mr. Able is recovering from a Heart Attack and this tribute would add a tremendous chapter to his well established legacy as the Greatest Band Director of all time

Tribute submitted by:
Paul Hill
Music Instructor
Fulton County Schools
Stone Mountain, Georgia

I want to acknowledge an outstanding mentor to so many accomplished band directors, many just now entering the college teaching ranks. When I was a struggling graduate conducting student, he demanded absolute excellence. He pushed me to be a far better conductor and musician than I ever thought possible. His wind ensemble rehearsals are an example for all who will some day teach. He never settles for less than what he thinks is possible, and he demands excellence. My time with the University of North Carolina Greensboro wind ensemble and my time working with John Locke are some of my favorite memories. And, I would never be where I am now without his dedication and professional guidance.

Tribute submitted by:
Lorie Enloe
Assistant Professor Instrumental Music Education
University of Idaho
Moscow, Idaho

Ross Kellan is the reason that I am teaching music. Not that he suggested this profession directly, but he demonstrated everyday what it could be, who I could become. I still learn from him. I came to him recently with a situation in my classroom, and he promptly responded, including this:

"There is a wonderful quote from Ghandi that in essence says, “become the change you wish to see.” We as teachers need to model the behavior we wish to see in our students."

I believed this even before he wrote these words, but to me, this crystallized the sentiment perfectly. So much of our efforts go beyond half notes and fermatas, articulation and phrasing; Ross modeled for me and countless other graduates of Glenbard East High School what it meant to be dedicated, civil, mature, courteous, intelligent and artistic. I pass on his example to my own students everyday through my choice of words and actions, knowing that my students will someday pass it along after me.

Tribute submitted by:
John Barnes
Fine Arts Department Chair
East Saint Louis Senior High School
St. Louis, Missouri

Charlie, thank you for your mentorship and wisdom. Your guidance and high standards transferred into a most successful teaching career! Even today I continue to use your methods and processes when I have the opportunity to guest conduct and serve as an adjudicator. Thanks for making a HUGE difference!!

Tribute submitted by:
Richard Mannisto
Asst. Superintendent
Wisconsin Lutheran High School
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Mike Lamendola came to work with the Mars Area High School Band as an adjudicator and then as a guest clinician. For many years Mike had superior ensembles at the Kiski Area School District and his ensembles performed at the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association State Conference on several occasions. After retiring from Kiski Area, Mike did the summer band camp scene and in this role I hired Mike to help at Mars. Mike put his heart and soul into the kids and making music. Mike served as counselor and mentor to myself and my staff. Mike took concepts that I learned in college and tied together all the loose ends to make my learning complete and well rounded. He taught me how to get an ensemble to sound the way I wanted them to and not to sacrifice tone for anything. Most importantly, Mike taught me that caring about the kids was the real reason we were there and to do whatever was necessary for the kids to succeed. Mike didn't have a reason to care about the Mars program, but he did anyway. He helped a small school do some great things because he cared about making music and he cared about kids.

Tribute submitted by:
Charles Prijatelj
Instructor of Instrumental Music
Mars Area School District
Butler, Pennsylvania

Eddie and Matty Shiner: The Shiner brothers were the heart and soul of the Duquesne University Music Department. They lead by example. Work ethic, dedication, knowledge of content and caring about their students were all hallmarks of their personalities. Many music educators in the Western Pennsylvania area can trace their successes back to lessons learned in these gentlemen's studios. The basis for my pedagogical approach stems from their example of hard work and dedication. So many of my students have gained from the expertise these two gentlemen shared with me. I am forever in their debt.

Tribute submitted by:
Charles Prijatelj
Instrumental Music Instructor
Mars Area School District
Butler, Pennsylvania

I was fortunate to student teach with Doc way back in 1982. I was able to study under a talented guy with a PhD who spent part of each day making sure that the seating arrangement in the room was correct. He taught me that you are never too "important" to get your hands dirty. A professional does what is necessary to help their program. If the chairs need to be straightened, you straighten them. If the floor needs to be cleaned then you clean the floor. He showed me that being a good musician/educator is a lot more than just dealing with notes and reheasal technique.

Thanks, Doc!

Tribute submitted by:
Jeff Parthun
Band Direrctor
Lafayette (IN) School Corporation
Lafayette, Indiana

Mentor – a wise and trusted teacher, guide, and friend. In the summer of 1979, I had opportunity to enroll in the Indiana University School of Music as a Masters student and to work as a graduate assistant in the Department of Bands. It was then that I met Ray E. Cramer and found a wise and trusted teacher, guide, and friend.

Ray Cramer is one of those incredible men of character, genuine character. In all the years I have known Ray, I have never heard him say a bad word about anyone. Ray’s model of faith, family, finding the best in every student and colleague has been a great inspiration to me throughout my adult life.

By consistently modeling his best, he has the ability to bring out the best in those whose lives he touches. He has brought out the very best in so many young men and women, musically, personally and professionally. Whenever I have been with Ray, he made me feel like he was interested in me and believed in me. Ray Cramer has inspired me to want to be that kind of teacher, guide and friend for my own students. He has taught me that giving my best to my students in everything allows me to expect their best in everything.

There has been an added bonus in the opportunity to learn from and fellowship with Ray Cramer: Molly Cramer. They are the complete package. All of us who have had the “Cramer Experience” learned that without a doubt, behind every great man is a greater woman. We have also learned that the demands and aspirations of our career should never take priority over faith and family. So I also learned from Ray and Molly, that my most honest critic and most encouraging support is my own dear wife, Nancy.

I keep Ray’s picture on my desk to remind me daily to pursue excellence in the music I share with my students, but most importantly, to treat them with kindness, respect their dignity, to be a man of character, and to strive to be a wise and trusted teacher, guide and friend.

Tribute submitted by:
Mike Fiske
Director of Bands
Joliet Township High School
Joliet, Illinois

When I became a band director, there were a certain number of directors out there that I considered my role models. Without question, the one that I consider the most influential in my band directing career is Ralph Hale, former band director at Christian Brothers High School in Memphis. Dr Hale passed away in the early 1990's. As a young director, Dr Hale made himself available to any director that asked for the help. His pedagogical methods were the best. He developed a system of counting rhythms that I still use today with my students, and he developed and marketed a series of rhythm slides that are still used by thousands of directors around the country. All of my students are aware of Dr Hale and his legacy. In a way, I find this difficult to write because of the many intangibles surrounding Dr Hale and his teaching methods. Most of his contributions cannot be put into words. I only know that not a day goes by where I do not use what I learned from Dr Hale. There is a story about Dr Hale. A seasoned director who never really developed a great band approached Ralph one day and said "Ralph, what's your secret". Dr Hale's response was something like "well, we work a lot on tone quality and rhythms....... " and was cut off by the inquiring band director. Then the seasoned band director told Dr Hale the following "I don't want to hear all that. What's your secret?" Dr Hale followed up with "well, we spend a lot of time on balance and intonation and............." and once again, Ralph was cut off by this inquiring band director, who refused to believe that there was not a hidden secret to Ralph's success. The secret was in the fundamental teaching that Dr Hale went through on a daily basis. And of course, his students were sponges absorbing a wealth of knowledge. And area band directors were sponges that absorbed all of what Dr Hale had to offer. He had no secrets. He knew what it took to develop a superior group year after year, and he never strayed from his methods unless he found a better method. And because Dr Hale lived right here in my own backyard, right across the bridge from where I live, I had the privilege of knowing him and learning from him. Dr Hale, I never had a chance to thank you appropriately for all you did. That dreaded disease took you away from us too soon. So thanks for all you taught me and let me "borrow from you". Few can ever match what you did as a band director, but some of us are giving it our best shot. You had a tremendous impact on my life, and I appreciate this forum to let people know what you meant to me all those years.

Tribute submitted by:
George Pokorski
Middle School Band Director
Marion School District
Marion, Arkansas

First let me say that the three greatest influences on my life have been my brother, my grandfather, and my high school band director. I was fortunate enough in my high school career to be in the right place and the right time with the right director. During the early 1990's the town where I lived had assembled a cast of band directors that inspired and taught like fire. Randy Sonntag got us started, and my, what a start. I still use his analogies today. But when Fridays came we saw Mr. Gautney walk into the bandroom with pictures from the previous week's game, there was little doubt where we wanted to be. He was proud of his kids and still is to this day. He instilled in us a sense of urgency to be the best we could be. The standard was always excellence and above that he had a love for our band that hopefully many of us carry into our own bands and families. Scales and transcriptions were tossed between bands like they were footballs. We had so much fun over those very few years that it was never work. We did it because we loved music, we loved our band program, and we loved Mr. Gautney and everything that he still stands for. Don't get me wrong, I'm a realist. No one is perfect, and I've learned many lessons the hard way he tried to teach us beforehand. I cannot remember a day when stopping by the "office" didn't mean going to the bandroom. And the only "library" we ever talked about was across from the practice rooms. He had given so much of his life to music, we wanted just a taste for ourselves. So many of your students have gone on to careers in music because of what you taught us. I never remember working on notes and rhythms for days at a time, but I'm sure you recall. I remember "Elsa's" and the electricity every Spring when we took out "Esprit de Corps". We played those numbers for ourselves and for our band, but we also wanted Mr. Gautney to say, "Man, that's cookin'". Ironically, the transfer of pride and musicality went from Mr. Gautney to his students. Then we did our best to give some back to him. It was not a building or school that made our band time so precious. It was the standard of excellence...it was the comfort zone that he created for us to succeed...it was the music he selected..it was a great group of kids he spent so much of his time with...and it was him...Thank you. As teachers, we become more like our greatest influences than anyone else. I am very proud of that.

Tribute submitted by:
Bill McClendon
Band Director
Baker County Middle School
Macclenny, Florida

I would have never become a band director or survived in this field without great mentors. My first mentor was my elementary, middle school, and high school band director in Tooele, UT, C. Roy Ferrin. He was a great teacher who truly cared about his students. He taught me about leadership and responsibility and was my inspiration for becoming a music teacher.

My next mentor was the techer I student taught with, Chelle Leyva. She is so amazing! I could never keep up with her. I can't believe how much I learned in the few short weeks I spent working with her. I don't think I will ever be able to run a program as successfully as she runs the West Jordan HS Band.

When I was teaching in Alice, Texas I had the opportunity to watch and to teach with several great people but the two I learned the most from were Carol Walther and Nancy KingSanders.

Carol Walther was the head middle school director where I was teaching. She is one of those people who you think must know the answer to everything. She gives great advice and is honest when you ask for her opinion. She understands how to connect with students and how to make them want to work hard.

Nancy KingSanders is the music graduate coordinator at Texas A & M Kingsville who convinced me to start working on my Masters degree (and helped me stick to it and finish!). I learned a lot about being a good teacher while taking private lessons and classes from her in the graduate program. She kept me going and encouraged me to not give up when I was ready to quit teaching. She is a great listener and helped me to see things in a different light.

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from such great educators!

Tribute submitted by:
Christy Giblon
Band Director
Dixon Middle School
Provo, Utah

In all my years of participating in band programs, I must say that Sue Samuels is the greatest band director ever. Six years ago, I had given up on music, but the love and passion that Sue Samuels has for music made me change my out look on life. She has taught me how to be a more confident musician, and for that I am thankful. I have a new respect and love for what music is because I have spent precious time studying with Sue Samuels.
Sue Samuels is a band director that cares for her students, and she supports them in all areas. Her work as a teacher, mentor and inspiration go far and beyond the call of duty. Her door is always open when you need her, and even when you don't. Her musical intelligence has impacted the lives of many, and I know that everyone she teaches has been touched by the passion and love that she has for music.

Tribute submitted by:
Janetta Lockhart
Birmingham, Alabama

As a musician, James D. Lee (1946 - 2001) demonstrated a passion for his art unparalleled by anyone I have ever known. As an educator, he taught with the vigor and strength any teacher would be lucky to have. As a mentor, he was a respected example and role model for every young musician who knew him. And as a friend, he was the greatest of companions.

Mr. Lee was my first music teacher, giving me private euphonium and tuba lessons. He also gave me my first instructions in composition. He was my first conductor as well. I was under his direction in the Flint Youth Wind Ensemble (Flint, MI) for five years. He was also the founder and director of the Mott Community College Fine Arts Camp (Flint, MI), where I was first a student and, later, a colleague as faculty, teaching theory and composition. It is because of him that I am not only a musician today, but also the musician that I am.

In May 1999, James Lee was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. He fought bravely, continuing his work as Professor of Music at Mott Community College and as conductor of the Flint Youth Wind Ensemble into the final months of his life. He finally passed on July 18, 2001, and the music profession lost one of its greatest assets I have ever known.

I am now pursuing doctoral work in music composition at Michigan State University, a life path I never would have taken were it not for Mr. Lee. Upon his passing, I honored him the best way I knew how: I wrote a wind band piece in his memory. "Requiem in Memoriam" is a composition I used as a means of getting through the stages of grief associated with his loss. I experienced each stage as I composed it in the piece. It has since been published by TRN Music Publishers, and much of this tribute has been adapted from the original program notes I wrote upon completion of the work. Mr. Lee was and probably always will be the biggest musical influence in my life, and words could never express my gratitude for what he did for me.

Tribute submitted by:
Matthew Schoendorff
Graduate Assistant in Music Theory
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan

It is with great gratitude that I have the opportunity to post a mentor tribute for Dr. Lawrence R. Sutherland, Professor Emeritus, California State University, Fresno.

For 38 years, Dr. Sutherland provided a wonderful musical experience to the many students who passed through the doors of Fresno State. His never-ceasing quest to achieve the best in music, whether it was Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Jazz Band or Orchestra, inspired everyone under his direction to achieve above and beyond their abilities and talents. His methods, while not always gentle, struck right to the heart of anyone willing to take the heat and listen to the message.

I will always be grateful to Doc for all that I have learned. My students are the beneficiaries of his guidance and inspiration.

Anne Hendrickson
Band Director
Central Middle School
Riverside, CA

Tribute submitted by:
Anne Hendrickson
Band Director
Riverside Unified School District
Riverside, California

Joe was my band director while I was a senior in high school. His leadership and instruction were great. He inspired me to continue to work even harder playing the trombone and to stretch myself. Joe always encouraged me to strive to be the best and to surround myself with great people. He was my mentor as a trombone player also; I had the opportunity to play in a college/community orchestra with him for four years, he as principal and me playing second. We had an opportunity to share ideas and our music. I eventually student taught with Joe and worked for him at the International Music Camp. I've had the good fortune to share his wisdom and love of music with my own kids, my students over the years, and student teachers with whom I have been able to work. We keep in touch to this day. I'm very grateful to this wonderful person, educator, and friend.

Tribute submitted by:
Don Furness
Band Director
Redmond Junior HIgh
Edmonds, Washington

My tribute is to the legendary Samuel S. Griffin of Alcorn State University in Lorman, MS.

Mr. Griffin has been shaping the musical minds of young people from all over the world since 1964! His love for his craft and aestetic expression in his arrangements and mentorship to all he comes in contact with keeps him healthy and happy.

The legendary direcor Bill Moffit may have made "Patterns in Motion" famous, but Mr. Griffin has shown the world and the world of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) how this kaleidoscopic art is perfected.

As a graduating Senior from S. H. Rider High School "Pride of the Raiders Marching Band (Poney Thompson, Director- Wichita Falls, Texas), I ventured to Alcorn State University to join the "Sounds of Dynamite Marching Band." The name spoke for itself. Playing with such a diverse group of talented musicians and eager students, I learned to listen and perform music beyond the surface.

Mr. Griffin was the catalyst to my career and I am forever grateful. He has inspired everyone he has come in contact with in one way or another. It is in my arrangements, original compositions, and band discipline that I pass on the greatest tribute- to personally continue his living legacy to shape young minds beyond the surface as a band director myself.

Thank you Midwest for this opportunity for all to read of the Great Mr. Samuel S. Griffin- Alcorn State University

Musically,

Reginald A. Ellis
Director of Bands
Clarksdale, MS
Clarksdale High School

Tribute submitted by:
Reginald Ellis
Director of Bands
Clarksdale Municipal School District- CHS
Clarksdale, Mississippi

All I ever wanted to be was a high school band director! To have been blessed to attend Canandaigua Academy, Canandaigua, New York, during the time that Jack Lamb and Jack Bullock were teaching there, has, to this day, been a source of inspiration for me! Both of them gave me the chance to grow musically as a player and, especially, as a conductor through teaching the most incredible repertoire that I am still trying to master to this day! They were the true masters of teaching through performance!

If any of my students express the desire to be music teachers, I always think to myself 'Am I to them what Mr. Lamb and Mr. Bullock were to me? Am I doing for them what got me off on the right foot?'
This short paragraph doesn't even begin to express what those two gentlemen have meant to my efforts to be a great teacher. I only hope they know how grateful one of their students is for all of their work, patience, time, and dedication!

Tribute submitted by:
Valerie Rheude
Fine Arts Dept. Chair, Instrumental Music Teacher
Central Columbia High School
Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania

I met Harry Begian in 1967, during his first year as Director of Bands at Michigan State University. I was a 17 year old high school percussionist in nearby Okemos, Michigan and was introduced to Dr. Begian by my high school band conductor, Myron Welch. Since that time, his influence has played a major role in my conducting, teaching, and music making.

I obtained Mr. Welch's personal recordings of the great Cass Technical High School Band of Detroit under Harry Begian's direction. To say that these recordings "blew me away" would be an understatement. Not only did I learn the great standards of the band genre, but I also learned what kind of finesse and technical quality a high school band was capable of producing. Some remark that a picture is worth a thousand words. These recordings were, by themselves, worth a thousand hours of music study for me in my growth as a musician.

Dr. Begian's knowledge of the musical score, his uncanny ear, and the expressive gestures of his conducting technique are traits to admire and to emulate. I had the opportunity to play under his baton in two situations - summer music camp before my senior year in high school and as a freshman in the Michigan State University Symphony Band and Wind Ensemble. More than anything, I learned that concentration is the essence of quality performance. I also learned to apply myself to the music as never before. That was all Dr. Begian wanted from his players in the first place.

Harry Begian is a consummate conductor who has always given 110% to his music making. Few can claim that kind of intensity. For me, his was a level of involvement I both loved and feared at the same time. Those of us who have played under him are surely better off as professionals, because we experienced a conductor who achieved results and musical standards the old fashioned way -
HE EARNED THEM!

Tribute submitted by:
Jon Nichols
Retired High School /University Band Conductor

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Mr. Heid gave me the opportunity to learn on the job early on in my college career by teaching privately to his high school students. Later with marching band camp and finally I completed my student teaching with him. Through these opportunities I gained confidence and reassurance that I could teach. My first year teaching, I look back and wonder how the heck he made everything look so easy and how he's so confident in his decisions. Most valuable things I learned from him "make little changes slowly and you're students won't always like you...give it 4 years and then the kids will be your kids". Thanks for answering the endless questions even when you were tired.

Alyce Spoto the best 5th grade teacher I've seen in 13 years around music teachers. She is the most organized woman on planet earth, knows every song in the standard of excellence book by memory and can play them on every instrument. I never planned on taking a 5th grade job unless hell froze over, but when it came to cutting the program or me taking it over...hell had frozen over. What I learned from her during student teaching has saved my butt this year. Most valuable thing "be organized, don't conduct 5th grade like you do your h.s. wind ensemble and you must have energy for 5th graders regardless of how you feel."

Kevin Kastens let a 30 year old freshman music ed teacher march like a freshman. Encouraged me at every point and helped whenever I asked, even today. Always available and would do what he could to help. His classes gave me practical application for my job today. What I learned from him is "value and know your students, do anything you can to help them succeed"

Finally John Klopp let me write drill for his band when I was a freshman in college, teach his kids, conduct pieces on his concerts and run rehearsals. He gave me the opportunity to basically student teach for 3 years as a volunteer...let me fail and succeed through my own mistakes. Invaluable experience and it gave me a leg up student teaching. What I learned "always give students a chance to teach....whether college, h.s. etc. you never know who you will inspire into teaching because of it."

Tribute submitted by:
Tabatha Klopp
5-12 Director of Bands Mediapolis
Mediapolis Community Schools
Muscatine, Iowa

The tradition of the University of Kansas Bands is a source of great pride for those of us who have had the privilege of marching down the hill, enjoyed the excitement of 'run-in' on game day, or been fortunate to perform at national-level conventions for the most prestigious audiences in the world. For over 30 years, that tradition rested under the leadership of Robert Foster. I count myself very fortunate to have been a member of the KU Bands from 1979-1983.

As a music education major, I knew that my best training came in rehearsal. Mr. Foster always made it very clear that our preparation as music educators was paramount. We were aware that the reputation of the KU Band was something to be valued and to represent well. It was also very clear that our success in education was a source of great pride for him. His interest in our careers did not end at our graduation. Rather, he has remained available, supportive, and full of information.

Like most KU graduates, I have fond memories of my time on 'the hill'. As a graduate of the KU Band program, I am proud that those memories include playing under the baton of Robert Foster.

Tribute submitted by:
Ann Goodwin Clark
Past President, Missouri Bandmasters Association

Cameron, Missouri

In the fall of 1987, I began my graduate work at Bowling Green State University in Wind Band Conducting. My great fortune was that I had the opportunity to be a graduate assistant under Mark S. Kelly. Early in my time at BG, I realized that nothing less than my best efforts would be adequate. While initially frightened that I couldn't 'make the grade' and intimidated by this stern, demanding taskmaster, I grew to recognize what a gift his expectation of hard work and diligence would be. By the time I left campus in 1989 to return to my native Missouri and continue my career, I had developed a tremendous respect and love for this gentleman who guided his students with a firm hand and warm heart. He made it clear that musical excellence was a gift we shared with one another. The musical memories made under his baton are some of the highlights of my life in music.

Mr. Kelly's work ethic was, and still is even in retirement - second to none. I learned from him that in order to conduct a great band, I would have to prepare at a level that would inspire greatness. Meeting that standard was always my goal. If, even once, I achieved that, it was in large part due to his example.

Anyone who has known Mark Kelly knows that he never forgets a student, remembers musical details from performances of decades ago, and will offer advice/help to anyone who is willing to take the time to seek it. We are all part of his musical family - and have been blessed to know him not only as a teacher, but as a lifelong source of inspiration. His integrity, musicianship, and wisdom have served as examples for many. I consider myself lucky to call him mentor and friend.

Tribute submitted by:
Ann Goodwin Clark
Past President, Missouri Bandmasters Association

Cameron, Missouri

Karen Trembath was one of the best teachers to start a career in Music Education with. Her commitment, organization, dedication and hard work were an example to me of what it takes to build a fine program. She is a true leader. She challenged me and counseled me on rough spots in teaching. Her musicianship was impeccable along with her eye and ear for detail. She respected my area of expertise and always made me feel like a valuable part of our music team. Not only was she a strong role model but a real friend.

Thank you Karen for being a mentor to me. I appreciate all your years of selfless service to the children of Franklin. I have learned much from your example and will continue your tradition of quality and caring in my teaching.

Carla Gannon
Elementary Band Director
Robinwood/Southwood Glen Elementary
Franklin Public Schools
Franklin, WI

Tribute submitted by:
Carla Gannon
Elementary Band Director
Franklin Public Schools
Franklin, Wisconsin
United States

“Soul Patch” that’s the name we gave my high school Band Director Jeff Gretzinger. He said the little patch of hair under his lower lip helped him play his trombone. Jeff was a role model and mentor in every aspect of teaching music. I saw him involved and committed in what he did everyday. Nothing about teaching or helping students ever seemed drudgery or too much work for him. He believed in me and saw something that I wasn’t sure I had. His encouragement put me on to the best career I could have ever dreamed of. I felt important as one of his students. As a musician he gave his talents by performing in community groups and with the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra. Teaching always looked natural on him. His dedication was evident in his commitment to helping kids succeed and now he helps teachers succeed as he works for WSMA. His life is an example to me of what it means to be a great teacher—He lived it and I’m a part of continuing that legacy.

Thank you Jeff for your encouragement and example. I thank God that you came to a small town and built a real band program that fanned my desire to teach and love music.

Carla Gannon

Tribute submitted by:
Carla Gannon
Elementary Band Director
Franklin Public Schools
Franklin, Wisconsin
United States

Charles "Chuck" Johnson was an outstanding high school band director. Mr. Johnson, or "uncle chuck" as we called him, cared deeply for his students. Several of us are now teachers because of his enthusiasm and inspiration.

Neal Dahlstrom was my high school choral teacher. He believed in me and in my voice, always encouraging me to audition for all-state and all-northwest. Because of his unflagging belief in me I was a part of all-northwest and majored in music. I am now in my 30th year as a music educator. Thank you Mr. Dahlstrom!

Lance Boyd was my mentor at the University of Montana. Lance had and still has that great combination of energy, expectation and enthusiasm that has inspired dozens of jazz musicians to continue making music and to become music teachers.

These three men gave and still continue to give of their time and life experience to encourage and support music in America. They are great mentors!

Tribute submitted by:
Kevin Hartse
director of instrumental music
Spokane schools
Spokane, Washington

John Paynter was my post-graduate inspiration, both as a masters’ student at NU and as the conductor of Northshore Concert Band. I had the privilege of playing under him for almost 20 years. His musical brilliance, humor, sense of family and deep commitment to the group inspired me to grow. He took an interest in me and also offered me leadership opportunities as a player and teacher.

Barbara Buehlman blazed the trails for my generation of women in the band directing business. She and I became friends in Northshore Band as I marveled at all the balls she kept in the air. People that were lucky enough to understand her depth beyond her reputation as a tough customer/organizer extraordinaire saw a warm, caring individual who was an outstanding musician in her own right.

Mallory Thompson is my newest musical guru. She continues to amaze, inspire and teach every week at Northshore Band rehearsals regardless of members’ age, background or ability level. She is a musical genius: high energy, creative, funny, and oh-so deep! Music comes alive under her baton. She arrives at every rehearsal incredibly well prepared and has not been afraid to make some tough changes that have raised the playing level of the entire group.

Tribute submitted by:
Nancy Golden
Hinsdale, Illinois

Ken Kistner for seeing something in me as a high school student and encouraging me to major in music. My most supportive parents thought perhaps I should start at a junior college and he encouraged them to send me to a university with a strong music program. He invited me back to my high school to play a solo with the band when I was a developing college student which gave me such confidence. He later hired me to teach flute at Illinois Benedictine College when I was a young mother, looking for some very part time teaching.

Max Schoenfeld, may he rest in peace, taught me how to be musical and what music can do for the depths of one’s soul. He was my flute professor at ISU and became my dear friend. He was a gentle soul and I still remember him taking my flute out of my hands at a lesson because he sensed something was wrong. I was just dumped by a boyfriend and thought my world had come to an end. When I finished crying, we played duets and I still remember how much better I felt. He continued to mentor me after college: he surprised me and drove up to Northwestern to sneak in the back of the recital hall when I gave my graduate recital, played in my wedding, and sat with me for hours when I was hired to do some college flute teaching, giving me materials and answering questions.

George Foeller, Director of Bands at ISU, took me under his wing in my first semester. He asked me to join the student band staff and taught me everything I needed to know about running a band program. I learned more from him in that job than any 10 courses I had taken. He even got me involved in managing the budget which was no small task. He and his wonderful family took me in and treated me like one of them. He gave me confidence, opportunities for leadership and still makes time for me, always giving it to me straight.

Tribute submitted by:
Nancy Golden
Hinsdale, Illinois

These four men have without question served as role models and mentors to me for over 72 years. Mr. Gower, Sr. started me on the clarinet at an early age and was responsible for my very early interest in music. Himie Voxman, an early clarinet student of Mr. Gower's was my clarinet teacher at the U of Iowa and taught me the importance of practice, responsibility, and never being satisfied with less than my best effort. He was a hero to me.

Fred Ebbs, Director of Bands at the U of Iowa and later Indiana University taught me by example how to run a band program and rehearse a band: "Organization is paramount"...."You've got to have a system" and "Hard work and long hours are keys to success." We spent many an hour in conversation relating to how to rehearse a band! "Do not overlook details in rehearsal."
James Neilson was the mentor who by example showed me the importance of musicianship: "Technique will take you only so far...and then it is in your own mind and heart as to just how the phrase, the melody all come together." Jim simply had no equal in conducting a band with emphasis on the artistic!

I always tried to rehearse as though one of those four gentlemen might suddenly appear in the room. I would move 'heaven and earth" to please them.

Tribute submitted by:
Mark Kelly
retired

Bowling Green, Ohio

A Special tribute to my Mentor, Nicolas Cesarone

Mr. Nicolas Cesarone was my first clarinet teacher. He came from Italy to play clarinet with the Boston Symphony in the early 1940’s. Shortly after his years with the Boston Orchestra, he accepted a position as principal clarinet with the Syracuse Symphony. My father made an appointment for me to audition for clarinet lessons with Mr. Cesarone. My audition was successful and I began my weekly clarinet lessons. It was he who instilled the “fine art of musical detail and expression” which I carried through my entire career and teaching. He required every clarinet lesson to be flawless. He was an individual who held the highest standards and expectations for his students. He was a constant source of encouragement throughout my years of study. He promised me that someday I would be playing in a major orchestra…and that promise came true, as I became a clarinetist with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra during the 1960’s. Being from the “old Italian school” of clarinet playing, at times Mr. Cesarone’s teaching techniques seemed profound (and overwhelming). He required all his students to memorize all solos along with transposing etudes in any key he named. It was this wonderful teacher, person, and friend who shaped my musical life as a musician and teacher.

In addition to Mr. Cesarone, the following made a significant impact on my professional life as a teacher and conductor and also serve as my mentors. Their patience, guidance, and encouragement played a significant role throughout the past three decades of my career. I submit this special tribute to Frank Battisti, Harry Begian, Al G. Wright, Mark Kelly, and Donald McGinnis. Thank you gentlemen for the many wonderful years of our friendship.

Edward S. Lisk , Board of Directors
Midwest Clinic

Tribute submitted by:
Edward Lisk
Clinician, conductor, author

Oswego, New York

Without question, Jacque Dillon has had the most profound and lasting influence on my professional career. With great passion and dedication, she faithfully explained, demonstrated, and exhibited a passion for excellence in teaching and musicianship that I had not previously experienced. More importantly, she saw something positive in me (and many others) that I did not know existed. She taught me the basics of good string teaching and the passion for doing excellent work all of the time.

Casey Kriechbaum was a wind ensemble and orchestra conductor in the North Olmsted, Ohio public schools. Casey was a master at teaching tone quality, intonation, and musicianship. Observing him work with students and having him as a mentor brought the importance of "It's not all on the printed page of the music" to a whole new level of understanding.

Tribute submitted by:
John Clinton
Dean
University of Central Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma

Dr. John Baker was director of marching and symphonic bands at the University of Northern Iowa from 1999-2001. In addition, he taught classes in conducting and wind band literature. He was a very active clinician and guest conductor throughout the world.

I first met Dr. Baker in the Fall of 1999, when he began his tenure at UNI. I was unsure of what to think of him at the time. I'd always been a little intimidated by my college professors, and he was no exception. I got to know him a little more over the subsequent year, and in the Spring of 2000 I joined his conducting class. He also asked me to be a member of the symphonic band. This would have meant having two ensemble rehearsals back-to-back. I wasn't keen on the idea, but being entirely too nice for my own good, I agreed. As we were setting up for that first rehearsal, Dr. Baker sat down next to me and asked if I was okay sitting on first part, since he knew I had just come off of a two-hour wind symphony rehearsal. I assured him that I could handle it, and thanked him for his concern. He smiled and said, "I'm very glad to have you here." From that point on, Dr. Baker had my utmost respect. That semester of symphonic band was the best ensemble experience I had during my four years at UNI. Dr. Baker made it very clear from the beginning that just because we were the "second best" ensemble did not mean that his expectations of the group would be lowered. He pushed us and made us work for every note, every measure. During that semester, we performed Stephen Melillo's "Godspeed!", which has since become one of my favorite selections. I remember looking up at him at one point (as all good musicians do), and while he was conducting, I could swear that I had seen his soul. He was so passionate about music, and about making his students appreciate music. Later that semester, we were invited to perform at the Iowa Bandmasters' Conference.

After that semester, I knew I had to take more classes from Dr. Baker. I auditioned for a position as drum major of the UNI Marching Band, and was awarded the position. I had been away from the band when I was junior due to schedule conflicts, and I was amazed at the change that had occurred in the organization. It had gone from a chaotic mess of students led by one person, to an efficient, well-run student organization. Dr. Baker always believed that the STUDENTS should run the group, because it was them that were putting themselves out on display during the shows. At our leadership retreat the preceding summer, Dr. Baker made one point very clear: "If I were to fall off the face of the earth, I want this band to run itself." The discipline of the group and the quality of the music had risen dramatically. Dr. Baker had literally changed the sound of the band. When colleagues of his would come in to listen to our rehearsal, they often commented, "Yup, that's definitely a Baker band." His bands had a very resonant sound quality. They could go from sounding like a 180-piece marching band, to a delicate, reverent concert band sound in no time.

Dr. Baker instilled in me a confidence that I had been lacking. He not only taught me about music, but also taught me to believe in myself. He taught me to love music again, and to love teaching music, and that passing on your love and your knowledge of your craft is the best gift you can give them.

Dr. John Baker died suddenly on October 6, 2001 of a brain aneurysm. Those who knew him still feel that loss keenly, and he is still greatly missed in the music world. May his legacy continue for many more years to come.

Tribute submitted by:
Carla Venteicher
Graduate Student
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa

Don Zimmerman, Band Director, Knoxville High School
Don Zimmerman was the instrumental music teacher in the Knoxville School District from 1951 through 1956. During his tenure he was a superior music teacher and mentor. Without his guidance and devotion to his students and his music, my life would have taken a far different course. I had started to play trombone in 6th grade but dropped out during the spring. As a new director in the district he found my name on a “beginner” list but did not find my name on the enrollment list for the fall. Even though we lived and farmed several miles out in the country, he drove to our farm for a visit and convinced me it was too soon to give up music. I started the very next week taking private lessons from him.

His lessons and musical direction inspired me, motivated me and instilled a love for music making that has lived with me since my 7th grade year, 1952-1953. I watched this master teacher build a tremendous program both in instrumental and vocal music as he also conducted all the high school vocal groups as well. Thinking it important for the school to have an orchestra program (remember this is a rural school district with less than 300 students in the high school) he started a string program. That effort and dedicated work resulted in an invitation to take our full orchestra to the 1956 National MENC convention in St. Louis. Only after I began teaching did I realize what an amazing feat this was to accomplish in a short five years. He programmed excellent literature in every aspect of his music program. He strove for perfection and created an atmosphere where each student worked diligently to perform at his or her highest level.

Thank you Mr. Zimmerman for creating in me a desire for musical richness.

Tribute submitted by:
Ray Cramer
President
The Midwest Clinic
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Charles Knapp, Band and Orchestra Director, Knoxville High School
Charles Knapp was fresh out of school during my senior year in high school, 1957-1958. My Junior year had been disappointing as the replacement for Don Zimmerman turned out to be a wonderful musician but lacked the personal skills to keep students interested and motivated. I had maintained my lessons with a respected trombone teacher in the area and still loved participation in musical activities in the school program but many of my friends had dropped their music during my junior year. Charles Knapp came in with such energy, spirit, creativity and positive attitude that the students were immediately drawn to him. He recognized that I had two loves in school outside of academics, trombone and football. He knew it would be a mistake to make me choose between football and music for he had talked to the coach and found out that I was going to be the captain that fall and probably be named to the All-Conference team. Once football season was over I dedicated myself to music and individual practice. I would average two hours of individual practice a day.

Charles Knapp challenged me musically in a way that had not happened since Don Zimmerman was the music teacher. He was an inspiring conductor on the podium. He chose wonderful literature for both the band and orchestra. He was adamant about solo and ensemble participation and quickly the entire music program was alive with members wanting to play together in chamber ensembles outside of school time. This effort resulted in outstanding results at the solo and ensemble contest and directly impacted the performance level of the large ensembles.
I found Charles Knapp to be a person of great character, integrity and totally honest with parents and students in every situation. He was a motivator, never raised his voice in anger and instilled a love for music and music making. When I became discouraged about where to attend college or if I even wanted to attend college, he wisely directed me to his alma mater which he knew would be the right size and focus for a young musician with limited background other than being a pretty good trombone player. His wisdom proved to be correct, for within a few short weeks I knew I had found what I wanted to be involved in for my career. Thank you Mr. Knapp for sharing with me your love for teaching.

Tribute submitted by:
Ray Cramer
President
The Midwest Clinic
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Frederick C. Ebbs, Director of Bands, The University of Iowa; Director of Bands, Indiana University
Fred Ebbs was more than a mentor to me. True, he fulfilled all the definitions, and requirements of being a great mentor but he was so much more. For Fred, being a great musician, dedicated teacher, creative musician, expressive conductor was all about how one lived your life on and off the podium. He was highly respected in the profession, as he developed outstanding programs at each level and institution where he worked from a small Ohio high school to universities of high acclaim in academics and music. As a master degree student at the University of Iowa I wanted to be part of every group he conducted. As I sat in rehearsals, watching and absorbing, I saw a genius at work in how to build an ensemble that consistently produced the best sounds, the most musical phrase and creative nuance that I had ever witnessed. He taught me the all-important work of careful warm-up and tuning of a band.

Those lessons, taken to heart and filed in my sensory hard drive, have been recalled over and over again during my entire teaching career. I can still hear the sounds, the beauty of blend and flawless precision he was able to achieve from an ensemble as if it were only yesterday. Fred was a champion programmer, always creative, never forgetting the cornerstones of our band literature yet keenly aware of the newest material, knowing it was important that his students have an exposure and knowledge of this literature as well.

Fred Ebbs was a person of wisdom, a great personality, good-natured and friendly to all who passed his way. No matter how busy he was he found time to talk with students, parents or colleagues as if that was all he had to do. He showed me the importance of maintaining an ‘open door’ policy. Not only was Fred a sincere communicator, he also knew how to listen with depth and reasoning. He was a person who worked diligently and with a focused priority for achieving success. One of his favorite quotes was, “When it’s all said and done, there is usually more said than done”! Not with Fred Ebbs, every task had a function and a logical conclusion.

I could write so much more about this man but by now you have a pretty clear understanding why he meant so much to me. He believed in me from the very beginning of my career. That trust and confidence resulted in his hiring me for the Assistant Director of Bands position at Indiana University when I was but 29 years old. During the next 12 years he prepared me for the task of becoming the Director of Bands, his job, for the next 24 years. Without his guidance, leadership, wisdom and faith, I would not have been prepared for this new phase of my career. His mentoring infused me with his love for teaching, conducting and personal growth that will be with me until I meet him again in Heaven. Thank you, Fred, for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to share in this wonderful experience we call teaching, and for being a master mentor.

Tribute submitted by:
Ray Cramer
President
The Midwest Clinic
Colorado Springs, Colorado

While I was a student at Michigan, Dr Revelli took the time to give guidance through my years at Michigan. His advice at crucial times kept me in sync with my studies. As tough as he was as a teacher he was sensitive to the needs of personal growth of his students. I credit him with my lifetime growth as a person. He was a major turning point for me as my life went on.

Tribute submitted by:
Glenn Holtz
sales exec
freehand systems.com
elkhart, Indiana

Barbara Buehlman was Executive Administrator of the Midwest Clinic from 1980 to 1997. When she began, this was a part-time position, which allowed her to continue as Director of Bands at Round Lake (IL) High School. In less than two years in her hands, it had grown into what was legitimately a full-time position. In an August 1982 letter, Executive Vice-President John Paynter informed the Board of Directors of Barb’s decision to continue teaching, despite the overwhelming demands and round-the-clock hours of her job with Midwest, because of the Clinic’s uncertain economic future. By 1983, the Midwest Clinic had secured the funds for a full-time salary, and Barb made the risky decision to leave teaching to devote her professional life to one special week each December. She had brought the Round Lake Grade School and Junior High School Bands to perform at the Midwest Clinic in 1965 and 1971, and now she would be creating similar opportunities for other teachers and their students. In a 1990 letter to the Board, she explained her feelings: “Like you, I believe with heart and soul in the value and importance of the Midwest Clinic. My love in life is music and teaching. Perhaps it is going the long way around, but I believe my work is a marvelous ‘teaching’ opportunity on a scale unequaled at the public school or even the college level.”

Barb was not only the Midwest Clinic’s first full-time employee, for the next twelve years she was its sole one, single-handedly meeting the diverse daily challenges of planning an international conference and running a non-profit corporation. Already an exceptional administrator and organizer, she nonetheless had to transform herself into a business leader and event planner. She did this by studying and attending conferences on topics as varied as how to negotiate hotel contracts, designing newsletters and planning direct mail campaigns, and properly insuring a trade show. How big was the impact of her transformation? In 1980, the conference program book was 48 pages; by 1995, it was 232. Also by 1995, the organization had grown so much that a full-time Executive Assistant was needed, providing me with the opportunity to join the staff.

As Executive Administrator, Barbara kept the stamp of sincerity on the Midwest Clinic. While the conference grew in size and renown, she never lost sight of its mission to serve instrumental music teachers of all levels, circumstances, and backgrounds. Drawing on her experiences building a nationally-recognized band program in a community with limited resources and no music tradition, she understood the demand for accessible and practical solutions as well as the inspirational moments that can impel one to exceed expectations. Always implicit in her decisions was the question, “Are we doing this because it advances the mission, or is something else driving or distracting us?” In my opinion no quality has meant as much to the success of the Midwest Clinic as that sincere focus on serving music teachers, and no lesson has been more valuable to me.

Throughout our time working together, Barb encouraged me to be creative, gave constructive feedback at every opportunity, actively sought ways to increase my knowledge and responsibilities, and insisted on giving me credit for the things I did. From these opportunities grew others. When the chairman of the Long Range Planning Committee of the Board of Directors invited me to join the committee, it felt like the first significant achievement of my career. Barb had more faith in my ability to meet the challenges of the Midwest Clinic than I did. When she was too ill to attend the Board of Directors meeting at the 1996 conference, placing me in the unexpected and at that time terrifying role of leading the meeting alongside the President, she put aside the seriousness of her condition and told others, “I’m glad he has this chance to show them what he can do.” No other experience better shows how much her mentorship meant. It was through her faith in me that I came into my own.

In the year that followed her passing I continually discovered how much more demanding and complex the Executive Director position is than I had ever imagined. What I had picked up on while working alongside Barb for more than two years was a fraction of what she had been doing. Not only was I unprepared for the way the responsibility accompanied me home and everywhere, but I was overwhelmed by the universality of it, the scope of the details, tasks, decisions, and skills that would determine whether I could maintain a high and highly-visible standard without anyone to be my safety net. Barb handled this all so well that I naively failed to realize that this was the whole nature of the job. In my tribute to her in the 1997 conference program book, I described her as “a perfectionist on a grand scale and a maestro of minor details,” but even then I didn’t fully understand the breadth and depth of those details she administered with such exacting authority. This mastery led to her being named the Association for Convention Operations Management's "Meeting Professional of the Year" in 1996. Of all the planners for all the meetings in all the professional fields in the nation, it was this former band director who was honored. Fortunately, her renowned organizational skills included impeccable record keeping, and so I was able to follow a paper trail to complete the arrangements for the 1997 conference and plan the 1998 conference on my own. At the first board meeting after her passing, I so closely copied her style of organizing and presenting the materials that Board member David McCormick announced, “Barbara lives.”

I will never forget that Barb was a victim of discrimination, talented and ambitious at a time when opportunities for women were restricted. As a student, she was explicitly told that her male classmates would receive more attention, because they were the college band directors of the future. When she was hired for her first teaching job, her superintendent joked that he would need to refer to her as Bob Buehlman so that the school board would not know that he had hired a woman. I cannot imagine what it was like for her to realize she would not get the chance to achieve all her aspirations, despite her qualifications and abilities. She was known as a tough customer, but I wonder how many people who thought this truly understood that without a fighting spirit there would have hardly been a place for her in the profession she loved. One of my highest hopes for Barb’s legacy is that the Midwest Clinic will always stand for equal opportunity.

I speak for hundreds of students and colleagues when I thank Barb for her mentorship. Several of her former students from Round Lake participate in a group on Yahoo. As adults now scattered around the country, they exchange messages and look back at their experiences in band and say, “It’s amazing what she got us to accomplish.” There is no greater tribute to Barb, because for her there was no higher goal than preparing her students for life.

This third week of June 2007 marks the ten-year anniversary of when we learned that Barbara did not have long to live. The turmoil of that summer is still not far from my mind, but it has been eclipsed by the peace and gratitude that came from realizing that, despite my fears at the time, she equipped me for the many challenges I would face. I will always view my work at the Midwest Clinic as an ongoing collaboration with Barb. Her presence resounds here in countless ways and for that I am most fortunate. The Midwest Clinic and music education are too.

Tribute submitted by:
Kelly Jocius
Executive Director
The Midwest Clinic
Evanston, Illinois

Both Frank Troyka and Steve Gulledge helped me transform into the musician and person I am today through my three years of working with them during my high school band career at Cypress Falls High School. I entered the Cypress Falls Band Program an average trumpet player with very little urge to work hard and strive to be great, but through the great encouragement and coaching of both men I learned a lot about life and about music, some that I am just now realizing.

Frank Troyka has been an amazing mentor to me as he taught me how to achieve greatness and success and constantly strive for perfection in music during the three years he was my Head Band Director. Through his take no prisoners, and no excuses attitude I learned what it takes to make a performing group truly amazing. Mr. Troyka taught me discipline and the rewards of possesing it in the rehearsal atmosphere, which I have adapted to my life in Choir and I will take with me to Belmont University and hopefully next summer Drum Corps International. Mr. Troyka encouraged me and gave me the courage to step out on a limb and test my limits as a trumpet player, I may never have been in his top band or his spotlight soloist, but he taught me and treated me like I could have been.

I met Stephen Gulledge in my sophomore year as he became my private lesson teacher at Cypress Falls, from the moment I heard him play I was amazed at the art that he made trumpet playing to be. Through the two years he worked with me Mr. Gulledge fixed my sound and taught me the importance of fundamentals and mastering of skills required before one can claim to play an instrument. Thanks to Mr. Gulledge I learned the importance of knowing the basics not just playing the popular stuff for attention.

Both these men made a huge difference in my musical career and my life and thanks to them I plan to move towards goals I have set for myself in the musical world, and without them I would be lost in music.

Tribute submitted by:
Aaron Villanueva
Houston, Texas

* Don Owens: the consummate teacher. Don Owens (or "DO") was an
assistant director of bands and director of jazz studies at
Northwestern and taught a course in high school instrumental methods.
I learned more from him about music education and being a band
director than in my entire time at Northwestern. He's always been
there encouraging me, helping me and supporting me.
* Tim Reynish: an encyclopedic mind. I studied conducting with Tim
while I was doing my Ph.D. at the Birmingham Conservatoire in
England. He knows more about wind conducting and wind repertoire than
anyone I know. In our lessons he has always been very supportive and
helpful. He has a knack for saying what you need to hear, good or
bad, at the precise moment you need to hear it. He's a great teacher.
* John P. Paynter: the magic he was able to achieve on the podium
always inspired me. I loved to watch JPP work. He passed on a lot of
his knowledge to me during my undergraduate and graduate years at
Northwestern.
* Guy Woolfenden: a great musician. I studied with Guy for seven
years while I was in Birmingham, and I was his assistant conductor
with the Birmingham Conservatoire Wind Orchestra. He was always
encouraging and extremely generous with podium time at the
Conservatoire. He always had time for me to discuss music,
conducting, composition, and cricket. I learned a great deal from him.

Tribute submitted by:
Eric Hinton
Director of Bands/Assistant Prof of Music
Susqehanna University
Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania

At Loyola University of the South, Dr. Joseph Hebert directs the Wind Ensemble, as he did when I attended. At that time, he also ran the jazz program he had founded there (before passing it to John Mahoney). But I had first experienced him via the Loyola Summer Music program, where my older brother and then I had attended during high school. So in various ways, I had learned from him during my elementary, high school, and college years. The artists he brought in and tours he led were also important experiences in my life.

After I found I could not yet get into my chosen graduate school, he offered me the chance to take an extra year of study at Loyola in order to further my abilities--an opportunity that certainly opened a door to my future. Then, in the summer between grad-school years, when I visited home to see if I could find musical work to pay my school bills, he promptly offered me a steady gig of major proportions that exceeded any hopes I'd had. "Doc" always finds the intersections of need and opportunity, which inspires the rest of us to make the most of them and to create them for others.

Another "Doc" had similar impact. Dr. Patrick McCarty taught music theory for the Loyola Summer Music program during my high school years, where he opened up my eyes to a fascination with scores, parts, and their aural sum. When I later majored in music there, he was my freshman theory teacher. I'd often turn in two versions of the homework: one that I knew was what he was seeking, and one that included the uncategorized sounds I was hearing in my head for the exercise. He'd patiently correct each, showing me the theoretical names and processes for what I was hearing--often jazz influences I could not yet identify on my own. I still remember his red, blue, green, and purple inks for marking various musical characteristics.

These two professors intersected frequently in my high school years. In fact, Dr. Hebert directed me within the All-District Concert Band in my senior high school year, for which the repertoire included "Ballade," written by Dr. McCarty. It's still one of my favorite wind ensemble compositions; so I'm holding onto the LP.

The teaching of both "Docs" reinforced my belief that it's important to have some of the most experienced instructors teaching the youngest students. They set me on a path and steered me through years of efforts to find my creative voice.

Certainly that path had its roots at Jesuit High School. When I was a junior, I asked my band director, Mr. Marion Caluda, if I could re-arrange a concert band arrangement of "Sounds of the Carpenters" so that it might become a feature for our trombone section. His consent provided me score-study and some writing practice. And of course I played the trombone in any configurations I could find at school.

In my senior year his colleague, Mr. Logan Boudreaux, formed the first Jesuit jazz band in many years, and we managed to get our act together enough to perform at the Loyola Jazz Festival, which I had attended as a spectator for years. Such opportunities sparked my interest in a life of music-making, and I am indeed fortunate that they were able to give me those opportunities.

Tribute submitted by:
Antonio García
Director of Jazz Studies
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia