Blue Lake’s founder and president emeritus, Fritz Stansell, has passed away at the age of 92. Fritz Stansell was also one of the original founders of the Falcone Festival and had an incredible impact on the music world. We are deeply saddened to learn of his passing. Our most sincere condolences to the Stansell family and BLFAC community during these difficult times. He leaves a legacy that will forever inspire our mission and vision. Thank you, Mr. Stansell. Ars longa, vita brevis. The Monarch Tuba-Euphonium Quartet
ROGER BEHREND — An internationally recognized euphonium virtuoso, clinician, and educator, Mr. Behrend holds a BA in music education from Michigan State University, where he studied with the legendary Leonard Falcone, and an MA in euphonium performance from George Mason University, where he is currently on faculty. A professional military euphoniumist in Washington, DC, he is a strong proponent of the euphonium and takes an active interest in securing the future of the instrument.
DAVID MILES — Currently a professional military euphoniumist in Washington, DC, David Miles holds degrees from Appalachian State University and Morehead State University, and he completed the first Doctor of Music degree in euphonium performance awarded by the University of Maryland after extensive studies with Brian Bowman.
MARTY ERICKSON — Recently retired as principal/solo tubist with the United States Navy Band in Washington, DC, Marty has earned international acclaim as a soloist/clinician, with performances in Germany, Japan, Sweden, and extensively throughout the US. He has appeared with the Boston Pops, US Navy Band, US Army Band, National Symphony, and the Brass Band of Battle Creek. He is a past president/chairman of the Board of Directors of the Tubists Universal Brotherhood Association and adjudicating chairman for the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium Festival.
KEITH MEHLAN — The late Keith Mehlan held a bachelor degree in music performance and music education from Illinois State University. An internationally recognized composer and arranger of tuba-euphonium quartet literature with numerous published and unpublished works to his credit, Keith remained a professional military tubist in Washington, DC, until his death April 23, 1995.
