Tony D’Andrea passed away on May 14, 2021, at the age of 83. We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend, mentor, and educator. His career in music spanned more than 65 years.
As director of bands at the University of Tennesse, Chattanooga, “Mr. D” led the Marching Band, Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and Pep Band. He was director of bands at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga from 1982-2005. Upon retirement, UTC honored him with the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus of Music.
D’Andrea also taught at several other Tennessee schools, including the University of Tennessee at Martin and Doyle High School and Gibbs High School in Knoxville. While in Knoxville, he was also the coordinator of instrumental music for the Knox County School System. He maintained an active profile in all aspects of music education throughout the state and region. His affiliation with professional music organizations included ETSBOA WTSBOA, MTSBOA, CBDNA, MENC, TMEA, NBA, TBA, Phi Beta Mu, Phi Mu Alpha, and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 80. He often made guest appearances as a Concert Band Conductor, Orchestra Conductor, Jazz Band Conductor, adjudicator, clinician, and performer.
Before becoming a music educator, D’ Andrea was a musician who toured with several bands, including Buddy Holly, Bobby Darin, Paul Anka, James Brown, Patti Page, Pat Boone, Glen Campbell, the Everly Brothers, Sonny and Cher, Ray Charles, Andy Williams, Liberace and Bob Crosby.