Donald Hunsberger

Generally regarded as a key contributor to the rise of the modern wind ensemble in the twentieth century, Hunsberger's notable contributions include conducting, recording, and arranging music for winds. He was also a member of the United States Marine Band during the 1950s.

• Name — Donald R. Hunsberger • Birth Name — Donald Ross Hunsberger • Born — 2 August 1932 • Died — 5 November 2023 • Birthplace — Souderton, Pennsylvania, U.S. • Place of death — Pittsford, New York, U.S. • Instrument — Trombone

Hunsberger was born on August 2, 1932, in Souderton, Pennsylvania and attended the Eastman School of Music in New York.

From 1954 to 1958, Hunsberger was a member of the United States Marine Band, where he served as an arranger and trombone soloist, reaching the rank of staff sergeant. During this time, he composed an arrangement of the "Marines' Hymn", which is often performed by the Marine Band today, and he performed at the second inauguration of Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1957. In 1962, he was appointed conductor of the Eastman Symphony Band and coordinator of the Instrumental Ensemble Program. In 1965, following the departure of Clyde Roller, Hunsberger was appointed as conductor of the Eastman Wind Ensemble, which had been created by Frederick Fennell. During his tenure with the Eastman Wind Ensemble, Hunsberger conducted many recordings, including some with trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. Through his work as a conductor, author, and recording artist, Hunsberger helped further the principles of the wind ensemble concept, including "specified instrumentation, the orchestral concept of performance, single performer approach [and] development of individual tone colors.". From 1985 to 1987, Hunsberger served as the president of the College Band Directors National Association.

In later years, Hunsberger rescored music for silent films, and conducted performances with major symphony orchestras. Until his death, Hunsberger was conductor emeritus of the Eastman Wind Ensemble. Hunsberger died in Pittsford, New York, on November 5, 2023, at the age of 91.