The National Band Association is saddened to announce the passing of one of the greats in the band profession, Dr. Al G. Wright. Dr. Wright grew up in Michigan and attended the University of Miami (FL), where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music. He taught band and orchestra at Miami Senior High School from 1938-1954. 

Wright became director of the Purdue All-American Marching Band in 1954 and served for 27 years until his retirement in 1981. He introduced a number of innovations to the Purdue band program and was responsible for significantly expanding the band’s reach beyond football, including several performances at Radio City Music Hall and international trips to Europe, South America, and Japan. 

Dr. Wright was the first President of the National Band Association and was an Honorary Life President of our organization. He was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame of Distinguished Band Conductors in 1986. 

Dr. Wright was 104 years old. We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Gladys, as well as his family and friends.