Perfectionism and Musical Excellence Continued

Mr. Hige Russell was born on October 5, 1944 in Austin, Texas.

Mr. Russell attended the L.C Anderson High School in Austin, Texas where he was a member of the jazz band along with serving on the executive committee as President of his band during his Senior year in 1963.

He then continued his education at Prairie View A&M University where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree.  After completion of his bachelor’s degree, he went on to attend North Texas State University where he acquired a Master of Music Education.

He was in active military service in the United States Army and received an honorable discharge.

He served as Director of Bands at several districts including the Kemp, Garland and Dallas Independent Schools Districts.

While serving as Director of Bands for four years at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in Dallas, Texas his outstanding level of dedicated service brought merit and recognition to the band program. His love and the perfection of music were evident during his tenure at Roosevelt.

He helped to improve many lives that he touched and was always willing to help in any way.

He loved teaching and enjoyed observing students learn and appreciate music. His talents were amazing. He played various instruments along with the upright bass during several musicals which added a touch of class to the music section.

His band students often enjoyed playing jokes on him and he always took them with a smile. He carried his portable megaphone speaker on the football field during band practice to make sure that all students understood and would carry out his instructions as directed.

“Mr. Russell earned the respect of his fellow teachers, his assistant band director, administration and most of all, his band members. He was structured and demanded perfection. He always stated that he just wanted the band to be the best that they could be. He was truly a wonderful musician and band director.”

Student Musician Acknowledgement: Dalerie Wilkerson, Band President, Percussionist, Bells ’81

Bands during the Era of Mr. Hige W. Russell

(Tap picture to view larger image)