George R. Cavender

George Rudolph Cavender Jr. ( October 10, 1919 – March 2, 2004) was an American music educator and director associated with the University of Michigan, where he led the university's bands, including the Michigan Marching Band, from 1952 until 1978, first as Assistant Director and then as Director. During those twenty-six years, Cavender worked closely with William Revelli to develop the Michigan Band into a globally recognized performance group.

Early life and education (1919–1941) Cavender was born in Wakefield, Michigan, in 1919, the only son of George and Emma Cavender.

Cavender is credited with creating the simple lyrics of "Let's Go Blue" in a moment of enthusiastic improvisation after the song had been played several times at a hockey game in Yost Ice Arena.

Director of the Michigan Marching Band (1971–1979) Pursuing improvements Dr. Revelli's retirement in 1971 also led to Cavender becoming Director of the MMB that summer. A former member of the marching band under Cavender's direction noted that he "accomplished a lot through intimidation and humiliation".

Title IX After the passage of the Education Amendments of 1972 which included Title IX, Cavender oversaw the integration of women into the Michigan Marching Band in 1972. Until that time, only men had participated in the marching band.

Other achievements Keeping the Michigan Marching Band in the national spotlight, Cavender directed the band's performance at Super Bowl VII in 1973.

Senior faculty (1976–1990) Cavender became the School of Music's Director of Development and School Relations in 1976 and served in that capacity until 1982 when he took on the new role of Coordinator of Special Events which he held until 1990.

The George R. Cavender Tower, an observation tower built at Elbel Field is also named in Cavender's honor.

Personal life George was married to Florence. He had a son named David, a daughter named Patricia, and several grandchildren including Brendan Cavender, Carly Cavender, Brian Crick, and Cathleen Crick. He died on March 2, 2004, in Ann Arbor after a prolonged illness. He is buried in Fort Custer National Cemetery. Michigan Band-o-rama Series Field Production Guide [for Marching Bands] · Volume 1, Hugo & Luigi-S. French Music Publications, 1967.

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