Dear Honsinger Symphonic Wind Ensemble Member,
If you have not heard, I’m sorry to inform you that Mr. Honsinger passed away April 27. He suffered a stroke and went peacefully after a short hospital stay. The current wind ensemble members and I have experienced such a tremendous loss with the passing of Mr. Honsinger. We have grown into a family and as we grieve together, we wish to honor him by giving back to the community the talents which he devoted his life to.
I began taking lessons from Mr. Honsinger 17 years ago and joined the Wind Ensemble shortly after. I continued with the group as I went to college for my Bachelor’s of Music Education. His influence was also present in my family as my son’s weekly piano lessons developed strong ties to the rest of my family. His constant presence in my life for many years has instilled in me a love and passion for music. His dedication and hard work has compelled me to carry on his love for music. For this reason, I was honored when the group asked me to take the lead of a new group. I gladly accepted knowing what an exceptionally talented and devoted group of musicians I had grown to love and respect.
As per Mr. Honsinger’s wishes, the Honsinger Symphonic Wind Ensemble will no longer be continuing. However, all the current members agreed that not only would he want us all to continue playing but that we need this family we’ve come to love. We are now a non-profit corporation called The Classic Legacy Band of Saginaw. We will be continuing with the same goals as Mr. Honsinger – providing the Saginaw area with a classical music venue and musicians a place to play and enjoy each other’s talents. I am extending an invitation to you to remain a “member” in Mr. Honsinger’s honor. We have all had those days when we think we should pick up that horn again but just don’t get around to it. Now is a perfect opportunity to just do it. You will always be a part of our family and we want you to join us now or in the future. We are many legacies in many places but we are always connected by his memory.
We meet Tuesday nights at Michigan Avenue Baptist Church from 7:00 to 9:00pm. Please feel free to join us for a rehearsal, a concert, or a visit any time you are able. Our upcoming concert dates are July 21 and August 18 at the Anderson Rose Gardens behind the Anderson Enrichment Center, 120 Ezra Rust Drive in Saginaw. Concerts begin at 7:00. Also check our website classiclegacyband.com for further information. We are currently trying to raise money to purchase a music library and equipment. To make a tax-deductible donation, please send your gift to the address above or contact a committee member.
I am excited and honored to be continuing what I feel was Mr. Honsinger’s life work. His wish has always been to make beautiful music. My wish is to continue his legacy through our music. Please consider joining us or making a donation to honor a life of hard work and passion for music.
Hoping to hear from you soon,
Carin Owen
Director and President, Classic Legacy Band of Saginaw
