Role

:

Conductor

Birth

:

1921

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Orchestral

 

Harry Begian was a renowned American conductor and music educator who made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on August 12, 1921, in Detroit, Michigan, Begian showed an early interest in music and began playing the trumpet at the age of 10. He went on to study music at Wayne State University and later at the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1943. After completing his studies, Begian served in the United States Army during World War II, where he played in the Army Band and conducted various military ensembles. Following his discharge from the army, he continued his education at the Eastman School of Music, where he earned a Master of Music degree in 1947. Begian began his professional career as a music educator, teaching at various schools and universities throughout the United States. He served as the director of bands at the University of Illinois from 1955 to 1962, where he established a reputation as a skilled conductor and educator. In 1962, he was appointed as the director of bands at the University of Michigan, a position he held until his retirement in 1988. During his tenure at the University of Michigan, Begian led the university's Symphony Band and was instrumental in establishing the school's conducting program. He also conducted the university's marching band, which became known as the "Michigan Marching Band," and led the ensemble in numerous performances at football games and other events. Begian was widely recognized for his contributions to the field of music education and was a sought-after guest conductor for various ensembles throughout the United States and abroad. He conducted the All-State Bands in Michigan, Illinois, and Texas, as well as the National High School Honors Band and the United States Army Band. He also conducted the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra in Japan and the Royal Northern College of Music Wind Orchestra in England. In addition to his work as a conductor and educator, Begian was also a prolific arranger and composer. He arranged numerous works for wind ensemble and orchestra, including works by composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. He also composed several original works for wind ensemble, including "Symphony for Band" and "Concerto for Trumpet and Band." Begian's contributions to the world of classical music were widely recognized, and he received numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1982, he was awarded the Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor, which is presented annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of music education. He was also inducted into the American Bandmasters Association in 1970 and was awarded the association's Edwin Franko Goldman Memorial Citation in 1988. Begian's legacy continues to be felt in the world of classical music, and his contributions to music education and conducting continue to inspire generations of musicians. He passed away on August 14, 1994, at the age of 73, but his impact on the world of classical music will be felt for generations to come.

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