Albert Hamme

ALBERT PEARCE HAMME
Al was born on January 5, 1939 to Randall and Louise Hamme, who predeceased him. He passed peacefully at home on Sunday, September 10, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Al is survived by his wife, Shelagh, his children and grandchildren : David, Randall (Kimberlie), Karl (Monica) Bill (Sue) and Jennifer (Jason) Cheyenne, Steele, Lynley, Erin, Eric, Zane, Kross, Elijah and Callen He is also survived by his sister, Margaret (Joe) and his cousin Betty. Al was a woodwind artist, producer, arranger, composer at Binghamton University and elsewhere.He founded the Jazz Program at Harpur College, now Binghamton University in 1964 and was the Director for 33 years. He was also the Director of the Cornell Jazz Ensemble for 6 years and was chosen to be the First Artistic Director of the School of Jazz Studies for the NYS Summer School of the Arts program (1985-1991). Al was also a founding member of The Presbybop Quartet, along with Rev. William Carter that specializes in jazz in church settings. He founded Music Unlimited in 1974 and directed that until 2011. He most recently played with Music Unlimited Little Big Band, Swing Street Jazztet and the Mason Warrington Orchestra. Al received numerous well deserved accolades over the years, including the Heart of The Arts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and a Star on the Wall of Fame at the Binghamton Forum in June 2019. He was also a proud 54 year member of the Binghamton Sertoma Club, demonstrating Service To Mankind in many different ways. Al was instrumental in creating a new generation of musicians in the area to continue the tradition of Jazz – America's indigenous art form – that he so passionately believed in. He had so many former students that he continued to hear from over the years and he cherished their friendships. Al also supported jazz by facilitating Jazz Jams at the Schorr Family Firehouse on Monday evenings, where local musicians got to play along with a variety of professional players. Those wishing to make a charitable gift in Al's memory are encouraged to consider The Harpur Jazz Ensemble at Binghamton University, Binghamton Sertoma Club or The Jazz Fund at the Schorr Family Firehouse. Per Al's request there will be no calling hours. There will be a Celebration of Life to be held at Genegantslet Golf Course on Saturday October 28, 2023 from 2-6pm. Please join the family to share "Al" stories!! You don't have to go home – but you can't stay here!!