Remembering Charles Geyer

Northshore Concert Band joins the musical world in mourning the loss of renowned trumpeter, pedagogue, and friend of the Band, Charles Geyer (1944-2024). Mr. Geyer made his NCB solo debut under the baton of John P. Paynter in April 1964, while still a student at Northwestern University, performing the Hummel Concerto in Wilmette and Ontario, Canada. In 1966, Geyer was appointed to the trumpet section of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, a position he held until 1978.

A lifelong educator, Geyer served on the faculties of the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago, Eastman School of Music, Northwestern University, and Rice University. His teaching inspired and influenced some of the finest trumpet players of our time. Later in life, Geyer appeared with NCB alongside his wife and musical partner, Barbara Butler, performing Donald Hunsberger’s Carmen Fantasia for Two Trumpets — arranged for the duo in 1994 — and reprising his Hummel Concerto performance in 2004, 40 years from his NCB debut.

Last month, both Charles and Barbara received the International Trumpet Guild’s Honorary Award in recognition for their countless contributions to the trumpet community and the world. NCB extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, students, and the countless lives he touched and inspired across his incredible career.

---