In Memoriam: Harry Begian

Harry Begian, Director of Bands at the University of Illinois from 1970 to 1984, passed away this past Monday. The descriptive “legend” gets tossed around a lot these days, but there is no better description of his work and legacy. One of the most influential band directors of our time, it is safe to say that the reach of his 45 years of teaching has touched everyone in the band world in one way or another.

• • Obituary: Harry Begian: School concert led him to direct bands [Detroit Free Press]
  • Harry Begian (U of I’s 3rd DOB) Passes Away at Age 89 [University of Illinois Bands]
  • NAMM Oral History Project [NAMM]
  • Michigan Musical Legends: Harry Begian [BandDirector.com]
  • Life Remembered: Former UI band director Harry Begian [News Gazette]
  • The Illinois Legacy: Begian [YouTube]