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James Arthur Brenden (1920–2011), known as the "Music Man of Douglas," was a prominent music educator, professional musician, and World War II veteran. His career spanned decades, during which he profoundly influenced the musical landscape of Douglas, Arizona, by establishing and nurturing a high school concert and marching band that achieved statewide recognition.

Early Life and Education

Born June 25, 1920 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Brenden showed an early interest in music. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, where he further developed his musical talents and leadership skills. During his senior year in college he directed the high school bands at Davenport, ND and Audubon, MN 1941-42. He directed the high school band and choir at Fairfax, MN as well as the Fairfax, MN Community Band 1946-50. Brenden attended MacPhail School of Music, Minneapolis, MN and played trombone as a professional musician with prominent 1940's swing orchestras Paul Hanson Orchestra and Paul Whiteman Orchestra. Later he attained his Master of Arts degree in Music Education from Drake University. His passion for music and teaching led to his becoming a beloved music educator.

Military Service

During Work War II, Brenden served in the United States Marine Corps as a tank commander with the Fourth Marine Division, known as the "Fighting Fourth." He saw intense action in the Central Pacific at Saipan, where he was seriously wounded, as well as Iwo Jima. Brenden was awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and Presidential Unit Citation. His war-time service further instilled in him exceptional leadership, discipline and perseverance traits that he later imparted to his students in Douglas.

Career as a Music Educator

In 1950, Brenden was interviewed in MN by the Douglas Superintendent of Schools and hired to teach music in Douglas, Arizona at the junior and senior high school levels to replace retiring music instructor Otto Utke. Brenden was asked to create a first-rate concert and marching band for Douglas High School. Brenden took on the challenge of building a comprehensive concert and marching band program from the ground up, including the purchase of band instruments and uniforms. Knowing the years it would take to develop in his students the musicianship and skill required, he taught students junior high through high school, instilling in them a love for instrumental music as well as an appreciation for the time, study, practice and discipline required to perform music well. Under his guidance, many of these students continued in Band all four years of high school, becoming accomplished musicians and helping to form one of the highest-rated high school bands in Arizona.

His bands consistently earned superior ratings at regional and state competitions, and Brenden was awarded numerous honors over his 33-year teaching career in Douglas, including the Distinguished Director's Award by First Chair of America and the prestigious Nunamaker Award for Arizona band directors. His approach to teaching went beyond music; he emphasized discipline, teamwork, and personal growth, leaving a lasting legacy with his students.

Brenden's dedication to his craft and his students earned him the affectionate nickname, "Mr. Music." His influence extended beyond the school; he was a respected figure in the Douglas community and was active in local civic and professional groups including the Rotary Club, the Elks Club, DEA, AEA, NEA, as well as the Douglas Bowling League. After school, he enjoyed having coffee with friends at the Douglas Drug. He was instrumental in bringing the Community Concert series to the DHS auditorium in Douglas for the community's enjoyment, which included performances by internationally known music greats such as Van Cliburn, who won the inaugural Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958, as well as many other celebrated performers.

Legacy and Tributes

Soon after his passing on March 1, 2011, the Douglas School Board voted unanimously to name the Douglas High School Auditorium in his honor, reflecting the community's deep appreciation for his contributions. This dedication of the James A. Brenden Auditorium served as a tribute not only to Brenden but also to the countless students he mentored and inspired and their families.

Brenden's legacy is preserved through a collection of memorabilia, medals, concert programs, tributes, personal letters, and photographs, curated by his family and donated to the Douglas Historical Society. This collection is housed at the Douglas-Williams House historical museum, where visitors can explore the rich history of Brenden's life and career. The community's response, with numerous tributes and fond remembrances from former students, highlights the profound impact he had on their lives. The materials in the collection are organized into three sections: personal life and education, WWII military years, and his 33-year career as the "Music Man of Douglas."

Brenden's influence continues to resonate through the generations of students he inspired, and the auditorium that bears his name serves as a lasting reminder of his dedication to music education and the Douglas community.

Personal Life

James Brenden was a devoted family man, cherished by his wife, Betty, son James and wife Susan, & son Lloyd and wife Amanda, as well as extended family and countless friends. His dedication to his family was matched by his commitment to his students, whom he considered an integral part of his life. His warm personality and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.