Frederick Murray Streckfuss

I spent many years with Fred at BF, summer band, in the orchestra pit for shows, and just hanging around the band room. I remember going to his house for a band picnic and meeting the family. I will always remember how nervous I was standing up in front of the band, on stage, for my first trombone solo. He was extremely kind and generous with his time. I remember once how angry he got at me for G-d only knows what and how we sat laughing together later that afternoon. He will always occupy a special place in my heart and has made a significant contribution to who I have become. Thank you, Mr. Streckfuss.

I consider myself fortunate to have known Mr Streckfuss. He was a passionate educator. Pat, you were absolutely my most favorite teacher, even though after four years I was always a lousy French language student. Sincerely, Mark Mittenthal (Milwaukee, WI formerly Teaneck, NY) [email protected]

Mr. Streckfuss knew how to inspire and infuse confidence in his budding musicians. He really shaped me as a person. I will remember his dry humor and enthusiasm. To this day, I still remember how excited he was when I made the first chair for clarinet in the 1983 All North Jersey Junior High School Band, the same year that he was the conductor. Mr. Streckfuss also introduced me to the bassoon and I seriously considered a professional music career because of him. I also remember fondly many Teaneck Summer Band years. My condolences to his wonderful family.

Pat, our deepest condolences go out to you and your family. Fred will always be part of our neighborhood and will be missed everyday. Please know we are here for you. George and Carolyn Diggs

Best conductor! Great man! Will be missed!

I am a professional bassoonist, and I have Fred Streckfuss to thank for that. I was playing alto clarinet in his junior high band when he said, "I'll bet you can't play bassoon," and I said, "I'll bet I can." The rest is history. Every day I thank him for that dare. He was a wonderful person and wonderful teacher. My sincere condolences.

Dear Pat and family...
We will remember Fred as a caring and devoted educator and good friend. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all of you. May Fred rest in peace.
Paul & Ricki Ostrow,
Alice Seidman Ostrow,
Estelle Ostrow.

Fred's work with the BF band always impressed me. Unlike most directors of young bands, he didn't conduct the beat, but rather the phrases. He had a flair to his conducting that was memorable, and his bands always sounded terrific: so musical.
I didn't know him personally, but I'm a music educator, and I live in Teaneck. In addition to having a vivid memory of him standing in front of his band, arms flowing and head moving emotively with the music, I have a fond memory of an article he submitted to the Music Educators Journal after he retired. He was teaching adults in the retirement community he'd moved to. "Imagine a student asking you if an hour a day practice is enough, or thanking you for the lesson?"
From all I could see, Fred was the quintessential music educator. Karen Bartholomew (Teaneck, NJ)

I am so sorry to hear that Fred has died. I worked with Fred at Ben Franklin Middle School in Teaneck for a few years early in my career. I actually remember him almost throwing me out of his office because he did not know who I was, the new string teacher, at Ben Franklin. He was always friendly and had a lot of good professional advice for me, and I remember him fondly.