It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the great Dr. Irvin L. Wagner (September 15, 2023). Dr. Wagner was the long-time professor of trombone at the University of Oklahoma, Music Director and Conductor of the Oklahoma Community Orchestra, and mentor to so many. At the University of Oklahoma, he held two distinguished titles of David Ross Boyd and Regents Professor of Trombone. He was a trombonist in the Oklahoma City Philharmonic for 25 years and named “Oklahoma Musician of the Year” by the Governor in 1988.
Prior to joining the faculty at Oklahoma, Dr. Wagner taught at Louisiana State University and performed with the Baton Rouge Symphony. Notably, he is a past president of the International Trombone Association (1982-1984) and was heavily involved with championing and advocating for our instrument across the globe. He helped organize and establish national trombone chapters in many countries including Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, Israel, Greece, and Great Britain.
His efforts around the world included public performances in over 30 countries, a TV special in China
viewed by over 600 million people, and a radio recital in India listened to by over 500 million people. These travels and performances led him to being called “the Most Listened to Trombonist in the World.” He held a Bachelor’s Degree from McPherson College in Kansas as well as masters and doctorate degrees from the Eastman School of Music where he studied with the great Emory Remington.
Thank you, Irv, for all you did for our instrument, our community, and the world.
