A Tribute to My Teacher

Dr. Harry Begian 1921-2010

Yesterday, I received some very sad news.  Although I knew it was coming sooner rather than later, it was still a bit of a shock, and cast a pall over my day.  Dr. Harry Begian, my friend, conducting teacher, and mentor, died at the age of 89.

During my college years at Troy State, Dr. Begian would spend the summer with us, sharing his wisdom and forming close friendships with many of us.  He was very dedicated, especially considering the fact that he was giving up his summer vacation in the north woods of Michigan where he had a beautiful lake house, to endure the thick, humid heat of Troy, Alabama.

Dr. Begian was a band director's band director.  His programs at Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Michigan State University, and the University of Illinois set the standard to which all other bands aspired.  He was a marvelous conductor and a master teacher.

With Dr. Begian at his Hall of Fame induction - 1994

Harry Begian was hired by Dr. Johnny Long to teach graduate conducting classes at Troy and to co-direct the summer band.  However, on any given day, you could find him hanging out with the undergraduates such as myself.  He enjoyed going through music in the library with us, and we eventually got to the point that we met for breakfast each morning at McDonald's.  He allowed me to sit in on his graduate level classes, and gave me private conducting lessons daily at no charge.  One summer, after returning to Michigan, Dr. Begian sent me two conducting batons that he made in his wood working shop along with a nice, handwritten personal note.  Needless to say, they are among my prized possessions today.

Harry Begian was my teacher, and he made a significant impact on my life because I knew that he genuinely cared about me.  He didn't have to say so - he simply lived it.  My life was better for having known him.

Dr. Begian was always teaching.

As we prepare to begin another year in the classroom, please remember that your students will be watching you each day.  Keep in mind that who you are shows through, and small actions that demonstrate love are absorbed and remembered for a lifetime.

My biggest regret today is that I didn't pick up the phone over the last few months and give Dr. Begian a call.  Most of your students won't either.  But that doesn't mean you don't make a difference - you do; and you were placed in your position at Trinity to do just that.

Enjoy the remainder of your summer vacation.  Let's make this year the best yet!