Edgar B. Gangware, Jr.

Edgar B. Gangware, Jr., retired Director of Bands at Northeastern Illinois University, died in 1994 at the age of 71. He succumbed to a heart attack while in the YMCA swimming pool. In 1956 Ed was elected to membership in ABA, serving on the Board of Directors in 1972 and 1973 and becoming president in 1986. In recent years he served with vigor and enthusiasm as the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Ed was born in Sandusky, Ohio and received his early music education there. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Whittenburg University in Springfield, Ohio. Subsequently he received his master’s degree in music and his PhD in philosophy from Northwestern University, where he was assistant band director under ABA member Glenn Cliffe Bainum.

Ed began his career as Director of Bands at Boston University. Next he served as Director of Instrumental Music at Bemidji (Minnesota) State Teachers College for 14 years. The remainder of his career was spent as Director of Bands at Northeastern Illinois University until he retired in 1991.

Ed was in demand as a clinician, adjudicator and guest conductor. He was a member of a large number of professional and educational organizations, including CBDNA and NBA. Ed was Chairman of the North American Band Directors Coordinating Council, Editor of “The School Musician” magazine, and president of the In and About Chicago Music Educators Club. Ed was a World War II veteran, having served in the Philippine Islands.

Northeastern Illinois University established the Edgar B. Gangware, Jr. scholarship in his memory. None of us can forget Ed’s devotion to ABA. We will fondly remember the versatility and talents of our distinguished and faithful friend. Thinking of Ed, J Julian said, “There are a lot of givers and takers in this world. Ed was the consummate giver.”