Gary Dennis Belshaw

I am so sorry to learn of the passing of Gary Belshaw. A chance encounter years ago led to my participation in two performances of his works. One was at the Texas Bandmasters Association convention in 2001, a trombone solo with accompaniment by our Naval Academy Band Trombone Quartet. This was written specifically for that occasion. The other was at the Naval Academy in 2002, a trombone solo backed by the Naval Academy Band. The soloist for both concerts was Don Lucas, Professor of Trombone at Boston University. I was as thrilled to play his music as I was to call him a friend. And he had many friends, deservedly so. Possessing as he did a cheerful countenance, he always had a kind word at the ready. His was a life well lived, and no doubt he will be missed by a multitude of family, colleagues and acquaintances.

My children and I are sad to hear that Gary has passed, he was a wonderful band director for our SPCHEA homeschool group.