Don Marcoullier, former professor emeritus of wind and brass instruments and director of bands at Drake, passed away on Aug. 5. Don was director of bands from 1956 through 1987, and under his leadership, the band program achieved national prominence. Don always considered the real success of the program to be the achievements of “his kids”—the university students he served and followed throughout their careers. To this day, his former students still refer to him as “Chief.”
Under his direction, the Concert Band performed for national conferences of preeminent music education organizations, and premiered major compositions by six nationally renowned composers. He was a guest conductor, clinician, and lecturer in 38 states, Ireland, Canada, and Mexico. The Drake University Marching Band performed at 18 National Football League games and was named, “One of the nation’s top five marching bands” by CBS.
Don authored the book, “Marching for Marching Bands,” introducing the unit system of marching which was widely adopted by marching bands across the U.S. For 50 years he served on the executive committee of the Drake Relays, and was elected to its Hall of Fame. Don was a Board Member of the American Bandmasters Association, and Past President of College Band Directors National Association, Iowa Bandmasters Association, Iowa Music Educators Association, and Des Moines Civic Music Association.
If you’d like to pay tribute to Don by generously contributing to the Don R. Marcouiller Endowment for Band Excellence, please contact Doug Lampe at doug.lampe@drake.edu or 515-271-3055. Please see his obituary online. Don will be deeply missed by many family, friends, and colleagues.
