Brown, 78, was GTMF percussionist for 45 years – JH News&Guide

Richard Brown, who played percussion for the Grand Teton Music Festival for 45 years as well as serving in various administrative positions, died March 14 at his home in Houston. He was 78. The following was provided by his family.

Richard Brown was born into the world of music on Sept. 10, 1947, the son of a violinist and music store owner. He started playing music at an early age in his hometown of Philadelphia when he took up the accordion at his father’s urging. Alas, being the next Lawrence Welk was not his destiny, and Richard soon realized his musical future lay elsewhere — specifically the drums.

It was a passionate love affair that took Richard around the world: from the steps of the Capitol performing for presidents in the U.S. Army Band, to Broadway playing in the music pit for countless shows, to the bright lights of Las Vegas with Ann-Margret and beyond. In his illustrious career that spanned seven decades, Richard entertained royalty and the common man, dignitaries and the general public. It didn’t matter who you were, Richard was determined that the music he made entertained and touched you. If you were going to listen to him, he was going to give you all he had because he was a true champion of music and its power to move and influence.

Richard began his musical career at the age of 18 playing with the Chamber Symphony of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Lyric Opera. After earning his bachelor’s degree under the tutelage of Charles Owens at Temple University, Richard joined he U.S. Army Band in 1969 and served honorably for four years. When his enlistment ended in 1972, Richard won a coveted position in the Houston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of the legendary Sergiu Commissiona. So, this East Coast boy packed his bags, strapped on his spurs and moved south. It wasn’t love at first sight, but in a short time Richard made himself at home, playing in the symphony for eight years.

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