Wheaton Municipal Band remembers conductor Harry Begian on July 28 in Memorial Park

The Wheaton Municipal Band performs a special tribute concert to the late, great Dr. Harry Begian on Thursday, July 28 at 8:00 p.m. in Memorial Park. Dr. Bruce Moss leads the band in a concert to honor his mentor: The legendary conductor, Harry Begian.

Everyone has a favorite teacher or mentor who conjures up memories and inspirations. ?He (Dr. Begian) had a rare passion for music and musical excellence and a standard that was second to none,? said Moss. ?He was dedicated, determine, strong in his beliefs, and passionate about the ?heart and soul? of music. He conducted all of my bands over the years at York High School, Eastern IL University, Bolling Green State University, and the Wheaton Municpal Band. He often said the Wheaton Municipal Band was one of the best in the country.?

Begian was the director of bands at the University of Illinois from 1970 until 1984. During his career he was also director of bands at Wayne State University, Michigan State University and Purdue University. Several of the members of the Wheaton Municipal Band played under Begian at the University of Illinois. Deb Zelman, clarinet, says, ?One of the things I remember best is that he would stand off in the wings of the stage after the concert and personally thank band members. I thought that was special.?

Begian was known for his no-nonsense, meticulous approach to music. His students were a bit intimidated, but they became better musicians because of him. His parents emigrated from Armenia, making Harry and his two brothers first generation Americans. He never forgot his Armenian roots. In the 1970?s he commissioned Alfred Reed to write several works for concert band. Based on three Armenian folk songs Reed wrote some of the finest music for concert band: Armenian Dances Part I and Armenian Dances Part 2. The pieces combine the modal folk songs with difficult rhythmic patterns. They are standards in concert band literature.

In addition, the concert features band member Colby Fahrenbacher on tuba playing ?The Bells of Blue Scotland? by Pryor. Fahrenbacher first attempted this piece in high school, but soon realized it was far too difficult. Now, as an accomplished tuba player he is now able to share this work at the concert. This is Fahrenbacher?s 6th season with the Wheaton Municipal Band.

This concert promises to be one of the season?s best. Dr. Moss has planned a fitting tribute to his mentor and a great musical legend Dr. Harry Begian. It is a concert not to be missed. The park fills up quickly, so come early. Thursday, July 28 at 8:00 p.m. in Memorial Park.