How did Roger Bobo die? Know everything about an American tuba virtuoso and brass pedagogue

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Renowned American tuba virtuoso and brass pedagogue, Roger Bobo, passed away on the 12th of February 2023. Bobo was an accomplished musician and educator who made a lasting impact on the world of classical music. Bobo gave numerous solo and ensemble performances, and his discography is extensive.

Keep reading to learn more about Roger Bobo’s life, career, cause of death and the impact he left on fans and loved ones,

Who was Roger Bobo? Know more about him

Roger Bobo’s musical journey began when he was six years old, and his father provided him with his first musical instrument, the cornet. However, it did not take long for Bobo to put the cornet down and refuse to play. A few years later, he discovered the tuba during a tour of a district high school band facility, and the rest, as they say, is history. Bobo received his earliest public school music training from Fred Rupp, the instrumental music director at Eagle Rock School District in Los Angeles. 

He performed in the Peter Meremblum California Junior Symphony, where he met Peter Christ, who later founded the important American recording company, Crystal Records. Bobo also studied with Robert Marsteller, who served as principal trombone of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the friendly competition of his colleague and friend, Tommy Johnson, helped develop his craft. In the summers of 1954, 1955, and 1956, Bobo traveled to northern Michigan to study and perform at Interlochen, where he quickly became known as “the boy who played tuba like a cornet.”

Also read: How did Frank Babbitt die? What happened to the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra member?

How did Roger Bobo die? What was his cause of death?

Unfortunately, Roger Bobo passed away on February 12, 2023. The details surrounding his death have not been made public. However, his legacy lives on through his extensive discography, his contributions to the world of music as a performer, conductor, and teacher, and the impact he has made on countless musicians and music lovers worldwide.

Tributes pour in for Roger Bobo

Expressing grief over Roger Bobo’s death, one of his students, Ben van Dijk, shared a Facebook post. He wrote, “😢 Just heard very sad news, one of my teachers with the biggest influence on my playing, my dear friend Roger Bobo passed away.

What a loss for our music community. R.I.P dear Roger, we will miss you.”

Another student, Bruce Lee, wrote, “Roger Bobo rest in peace (1938-2023)

Although I had only 1 lesson from him in 1997, he was always my great teacher. After I graduated, I was very lost on playing tuba. Without his book “Mastering The Tuba” I couldn’t find the correct path. It is still my quote “be your own teacher”. Thank you for helping me. We will always remember you.”

The passing of Roger Bobo has deeply impacted numerous individuals, and his absence will be acutely felt. Our condolences and support go out to his loved ones, associates, and the community during this challenging time.

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