January 25, 1941 – October 17, 2006

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of the Music Director of the Freedom Brass Band, Mr. Richard Jackoboice. Mr. Jackoboice had been active throughout the country as a conductor, composer, adjudicator and arranger for many years.  He graduated from the University of Michigan with both Bachelor and Master of Music degrees where he played for six years under Dr. William D. Revelli.  Mr. Jackoboice also studied advanced conducting under Karl Osterreicher at the Vienna Academy of Music in Vienna, Austria.

Mr. Jackoboice served as Assistant Director of Bands at both Cornell University and the University of Minnesota.  He came to The University of Akron in 1967 where he served as Professor of Music and Director of Bands for 20 years.  From 1985 through 1987 he also served as coordinator of the undergraduate music division in the University’s School of Music.  One of the highlights in  the history of The University of Akron Bands came when the Symphony Band made a highly successful concert tour throughout Western Europe.

Mr. Jackoboice had served as conductor at the Revelli International School of Music in Montreux/Glion, Switzerland.  He had also served as Dean of Music and special guest conductor at the International Education Institute at the University of Exeter, England.  He had appeared as guest conductor with several European orchestras and concert bands.

In addition to his activities with bands, Mr. Jackoboice had been active in the encouragement and promotion of all music.  It was his hope that musicians could have a meaningful experience in all phases of music.