The National Band Association is saddened to learn of the passing of NBA Past President James F. Keene. Professor Keene served as Director of Bands at the University of Illinois from 1985 until his retirement in 2008. He previously served on the faculties of the University of Arizona and Texas A&M – Commerce.
Professor Keene served as President of the National Band Association from 1996-1998, having previously served the association in several other capacities. In addition to his service to the National Band Association, Professor Keene was also a Past President of the American Bandmasters Association (2002-2003) and was a Past President of the Big Ten Band Directors Association. Professor Keene served on the Board of Directors of the John Philip Sousa Foundation and of the Goldman Memorial Band of New York City. He was also an honorary member of the Board of Directors of the International Percy Grainger Society and was an Honorary Life Member of the Texas Bandmasters Association.
The National Band Association extends condolences to members of the Keene family and to the thousands of musicians influenced by Professor Keene’s teaching.