George N. Parks
Educator and bandleader, leader of the Minutemen Marching Band

Born
1953
72 years ago
Died
September 16th, 2010
14 years ago — 57 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An educator and musician, significantly contributed to the field of music education. Served as the director of the Minutemen Marching Band at the University of Massachusetts Amherst for over three decades. Focused on improving marching band programs and enriching the band's musical repertoire and performance quality. Advocated for student involvement in music and organized numerous performances and competitions. Established a legacy of excellence within the program, with influences that extended to many students and educators in the field.
Directed Minutemen Marching Band at UMass Amherst
Developed marching band programs
Organized national and international performances
Other People Who Died on September 16th
František Jílek
A prominent conductor and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the classical music scene in the 20th century. An influential figure in Czech music, he held the position of conductor at the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and other esteemed orchestras. The individual's interpretations of Czech composers, particularly Dvořák and Janáček, are highly regarded.
Continue ReadingGordon Gould
An American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJames Burdette Thayer
Served as a brigadier general in the United States Army. Participated in key military operations throughout a career spanning several decades. Contributed to military strategy and training initiatives. Had a significant role in the development of army doctrine.
Continue ReadingWillie Smith
A notable figure in the blues genre, contributed significantly as a harmonica player and singer-songwriter. Played in various bands and gained recognition for unique vocal style and harmonica skills. Collaborated with several prominent artists in the Chicago blues scene and performed extensively in live venues. Worked alongside fellow musicians to enhance the blues sound, blending traditional elements with innovative approaches.
Continue ReadingFlavius Valerius Severus
Served as a co-emperor of the Western Roman Empire during the Tetrarchy. Ascended to the position following the appointment by Diocletian. Ruled from 306 to 307 and oversaw provinces in the western part of the empire. His reign was marked by internal strife as he struggled to maintain control amidst the power struggles that characterized the Tetrarchy period. Died in 307 without having established a lasting legacy, leaving behind a fragmented empire.
Continue ReadingPope Victor III
Served as the 157th pope from 1086 until death in 1087. Originated from the nobility in Italy and became a Benedictine monk before ordination as a bishop. Played a significant role in defending the papacy's sovereignty. Addressed challenges posed by the investiture controversy, which centered on the appointment of bishops. His brief papacy focused on promoting ecclesiastical reform and strengthening church authority.
Continue Reading