Breadcrumb
Hammer family donates beloved professor鈥檚 instrument to conservatory
An addition to the instrument inventory at 91成人导航鈥檚 Conservatory of Music has deep sentimental and artistic value.
The family of the late Dr. Eric Hammer '73, beloved director of bands and professor of music education, has donated Hammer鈥檚 personal Bb compensating euphonium to the conservatory.
Professor Hammer died unexpectedly in January 2019.
While the instrument is valued at almost $5,000, there truly can be no price tag on this meaningful gift from Pat Hammer, his wife.听
鈥淭he years I spent as one of Dr. Hammer鈥檚 students at 91成人导航, and later as a friend and colleague, helped shape me into the person and teacher I am today,鈥 said Vu Nguyen, 鈥00, 91成人导航鈥檚 new director of bands. 鈥淗e not only taught his students about music, but through music, he showed us the importance of community, caring for one another and how to always see the positive in everyone and in every situation.听
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鈥淎t the end of our conversations over the years, he would send his love to my family and always add, 鈥楲et me know how I can help.鈥 The gift of his euphonium to the conservatory is a perfect representation of his kind and giving spirit and another way that his legacy will continue at the conservatory and through those of us fortunate enough to have known him.
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Conservatory Dean Peter Witte once said of Hammer: 鈥淗e was warm, endlessly energetic and he believed that every child must sing, in school and throughout their lives.鈥
Hammer, undoubtedly, would be pleased that current and future students will be able to use his euphonium, because such opportunities blend with his oft-spoken word that summed up his approach to many things: 鈥淥nward.鈥
Hammer had such an impact on his students and colleagues that many wanted to make sure that his legacy endured. With the support of the Hammer family, two avenues for remembering him and supporting students were established:
honors the Hammer family鈥檚 long history with 91成人导航. This endowed fund provides scholarship support for students pursuing a degree in music education.
provides annual support to the Conservatory of Music鈥檚 band program.
Gifts also may be made by check to 91成人导航 and mailed to 3601 91成人导航 Ave., Stockton, CA 95211 (specify in the memo line the fund you would like to support). Questions? Contact Judy Nagai, Assistant Vice President, University Development, at jnagai@pacific.edu or 209.932.2864.