Our Former Director of Bands were teachers not only of music but life as well.
Many members of the band were Student Council Members and Officers, National Honors Society Members, Class Officers, Valedictorians, etc. They expected nothing short of perfection from us.
This perfection led to the band winning many awards and accepting invitations to events that only a few other bands were invited to attend. The Mustang Band of Franklin D. Roosevelt High School reputation for excellence far exceeded the city limits of Dallas, Texas. Recruiters from all across the country would visit the band room of Franklin D. Roosevelt High School.
I would like to say, THANK YOU, to our former Director of Bands for putting up with a large group of teen-age kids year after year for almost 60 years. Your Love, Patience and Guidance help to make us who we are today. When others said that “we couldn’t” you taught us to believe that “we could” succeed as musicians and in life! You will always have a sacred place in our hearts.
Mr. Thomas Ross, Jr.
1963-1977“Tough ! but he taught us the life-long lesson to be the best in all you strive to accomplish. That’s why we were WINNERS!”
Ronald L. Daniels (Trombone, ’77)
Mr. Hige W. Russell
1977-1981“Under the Directorship of Mr. Hige W. Russell, the band was indeed “tight.” Yes as in disciplined, professional and well coordinated. Mr. Russell expected nothing less than perfection from his musicians. I am grateful to have been one of his musicians.”
Perry L. Jordan III (Trumpet, ’80)
Mr. William F. Robertson
1981-2018“Mr. William F. Robertson was the epitome of all the qualities that were necessary to be the best Director of Bands. Mr. Robertson was an exemplary source of guidance to us all.”
Thank You Mr. Rob!
Aaronn J. Shaw, Sr. (Percussionist, ’91)