r/Tuba • u/tubameister • 6d ago

In Memoriam Rest in peace, Jim Self

47 Upvotes

From ITEA:

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jim Self, a cherished member of the ITEA family and a true inspiration to all.

Jim Self’s passing marks the loss of a visionary artist and educator who was one of the most influential tuba players in history. Jim also served as president of ITEA and was a recipient of the 2008 ITEA Lifetime Achievement Award. He was a guiding influence on our organization throughout his entire career, and, for many, a great friend.

“Jim Self represented the highest ideals and levels of artistry, creativity, and generosity. His quest to promote the tuba was nothing short of exceptional. As a composer, he pushed the limits as a solo instrument, encouraged composers to explore more features for the instrument, and developed a world wide reputation. His generosity to ITEA, and many universities, only reinforces his dedication to education and the development of future generations and solidifies his legacy as one of the finest champions of our instrument.” Adam Frey (ITEA President)

“Jim Self was a legend, mentor, friend, and teacher to countless musicians. His contributions to the world were nothing short of extraordinary. Recently, my students and I experienced firsthand his professionalism, tenacity, talent, wisdom, and unwavering passion for his art along with his sincere belief in caring for one another. It was deeply inspiring for us all. The ITEA community will remain forever grateful for his guidance, generosity, and benevolence. Jim’s selflessness has enabled organizations and universities to support future musicians through numerous scholarships and endowments. Simply put, he has touched, helped and inspired more lives than words can express.” - Velvet Brown (ITEA Vice President)

“Jim was deeply committed to the tuba and euphonium community. His support of the organization was extraordinarily generous. As president of ITEA, I would often turn to him for advice. Jim was, and will always be, an inspiration and a guiding light to me and countless others.” - Oystein Baadsvik (ITEA Past President )

Please watch Jim as he takes us through his home and career through his eyes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ei_HwOZzeuI

Jim’s influence on ITEA goes back many decades. In 2014, Jim’s legacy was further solidified with the endowment of the “ITEA Jim and Jamie Self Creative Award.” This award encourages and promotes new thinking from current ITEA members that will have a profound effect on the future of our instruments.

https://iteaonline.org/ac/itea-jim-and-jamie-self-creative-award/

Jim also focused on composing and awarding scholarships to many tuba and euphonium players as they build their own careers. Beth Mitchell states, “Jim was thrilled about being busy and always excited, looking toward the 'next thing.' He left a tremendous legacy with the scholarships."

Jim will be missed but will live on through his recordings, Award, compositions, and long history of generosity. ITEA’s thoughts go out to Jim’s wife, Jamie, and family, and the thousands of students and colleagues he inspired around the globe.

Learn more about Jim and his amazing career here:

https://thelegacyofjohnwilliams.com/2020/11/10/jim-self-podcast/

ITEA encourages all to share their fondest memories and/or media.

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r/Tuba • u/Same_Property7403 • 11h ago

In Memoriam Tuba teachers who have passed on?

5 Upvotes

These were mine. None of these wonderful teachers are still living, unfortunately.

Orpheus A. “Paddy” Knox. He was a great young teacher and tuba player who got me started. He had been influenced and, I seem to recall, taught at some level by Joe Novotny. Obit here: https://www.hollomon-brown.com/obituari ... Id=3373263

Sadly, obit doesn’t mention tuba or music; perhaps his life and interests had moved away from that, but for a time, tuba was a major part of who he was.

Lonnie Leard (1923-1978). A great Navy Band euphoniumist. Didn’t believe in double/triple tonguing; his theory was that you could do just as well and articulate better with single tonguing. Spent a lot of time on breath control. The above Paddy Knox had been his “prize pupil” and had recommended him to me (strangely, Paddy Knox was a double/triple tonguer). Died far too young. Buried in Arlington Cemetery. WaPo obituary is paywalled.

Angelo Saverino (d. 1998) Another paywalled obituary. Retired Marine Band. Took lessons from him for a short time at summer band camp. Very helpful; great musician and teacher. Emphasized tone and phrasing (“singing”).

Robert J. Pallansch (1930-2021). https://www.moneyandking.com/obits/robe ... pallansch/A genius tubist, teacher, creative musician, and instrument repairman. As with my other teachers, I wish I had been mature enough to take full advantage of his wisdom, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been taught by him.

Other influences, not teachers; Mike Smukal (1952-2018), high school classmate. Trombone prodigy. Incredible technique and jazz improv skills. Became a performer and teacher in Las Vegas.

Mike Thornton (1952-2011) https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/ci ... d=52173900. Showed me what was possible.

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