Music man

The Gazette Editorial Board

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When Tom Davis was hired as assistant band director at the University of Iowa in 1958, he was asked to establish one of the nation's first collegiate-level percussion departments. It was the beginning of a long, respected legacy.

Davis, who died Saturday at age 80, was the UI's marching band director from 1967 to 1972. Pioneer of the UI jazz studies program. A prolific composer, especially in percussion ensemble, a nationally recognized contributor. As well as 30 years directing the UI Alumni Marching Band.

Davis is remembered as a great teacher and joke-teller who also made band members “feel honesty, hard work and integrity were the essence of all Saturday football band performances,” wrote Tom Snyder, a former student who is an instructor at Northeast Iowa Community College.

The effects were lasting.

“I never would have been in the UI Alumni Band for 33 continuous years if not for Tom,” Snyder added.

When Davis retired in 1996, former students established an endowment in his name. Their knew their lives are richer because a Wyoming native made his way to Iowa City.

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