2009-2010 Hall of Fame Inductees
David Isadore
David Isadore received a Bachelor of music education degree from the Boston Conservatory of Music and a Masters of Science degree with a woodwind concentrate from the University of New Hampshire. While residing in Massachusetts, Mr. Isadore served as Head Band Director/ Director of Music Education for the Methuen Public Schools. Upon moving to the valley in 1984, David served as the Head Band Director and Instrumental supervisor for the Weslaco Independent School District until his retirement in 2003. During his tenure in Weslaco, Mr. Isadore’s bands earned consistent top ratings in UIL, including I’s every year in Marching, and two trips to the State marching competition. Currently Mr. Isadore is on the adjunct faculty at the University of Texas, Brownsville where he co-conducts the university jazz ensemble, is assistant wind ensemble conductor, as well as supervisor for instrumental student teachers. As a member of TMAA, (Texas Music Adjudicator’s Association) David is a sought -after clinician and judge for Concert, Marching and Jazz band. Other affiliations include membership in TMEA, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Phi Beta Mu. David served both as Region 15 President and Band Chair, and in 2001 David was voted TMEA Region XV band director of the year.
As a performer Mr. Isadore has had a long and varied career both as a classical and jazz musician. David appeared as a clarinet soloist with the Boston Pops orchestra under the direction of Arthur Fielder, and also in a duo performance with his son, Michael and the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Isadore, as a woodwind specialist, has performed with Jerry Lewis, Marvin Hamlish, Don Rickles, and Donna Summers, among others. Presently David is Principal oboe with the Valley Symphony Orchestra, and the Harlingen Festival Orchestra and Chorale. In addition, he is lead alto with the Dean Canty Orchestra and the Harbor Lights Orchestra in Brownsville.
Nat C. Alewine
Nat was born on December 3, 1926, in Boswell, Oklahoma, to the late Clovis K. and Willie M. Thompson Alewine. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and earned his Master’s degree in Music from the University of Texas. He started out as the band director of the San Benito Junior High School, created the band program at Los Fresnos High School, and came to Cuero High School in 1960 and served as band director until 1977. After retiring as band director, he taught Government and History at Cuero High School and coached the golf team. He was a member of the Outstanding Band Directors of Texas and First United Methodist Church.
Nat C. Alewine, 76, died Saturday, October 25, 2003 after a long illness. We believe he is continuing his career directing a heavenly band of angels. Nat is survived by a daughter, Nancy Alexander and husband Rudy of Corpus Christi; grandchildren, Tracie Hastings and husband Joe of Corpus Christi, Cheryl Atkinson and husband Jeff of Portland, Texas, and Richard D. Alexander and wife Patsy of Corpus Christi; mother-in-law, Norma Harrison or Corpus Christi; six great-grandchildren; sister, Virginia Hughston of San Antonio; and his loving friend, Joyce Hilbrich. He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Harrison A lewine; sister, Evelyn Olive; and brother, C. K. Alewine.