Melvin L Shelton
Melvin L Shelton
Dr. Melvin L Shelton
passed away Friday June 1,2012 of natural causes, at the age of 79.
Mel,as he was
known to his friends, was born July 15,1932 in Wichita,Kansas the younger of
two sons born to Jack Shelton and Pearl (Winstead) Shelton.He was raised in
Wichita and in 1956, after serving in the U. S. Air Force Band program,
graduated from Wichita State University. Dr. Shelton then began his teaching
career in Pretty Prairie,Kansas before moving to Boise, Idaho as Director of
Bands and Orchestra at Boise High School. His concert, marching band, and
orchestra consistently received the highest possible ratings at competitions
and received numerous Best of Class trophies.
After nine years
at Boise High he was appointed Director of Bands and Professor of Music at
Boise State University. In 1969 he received his Masters Degree from the
University of Idaho.
While on the
staff at Boise State University, Mel established the BSU Jazz Festival,as well
as the annual BSU Marching Workshop for high school drum majors,color
guards,drill teams, and directors.
Dr. Shelton held
the position of principal trumpet with the Boise Philharmonic Orchestra, the
Brass Ensemble,as well as solo cornetist and conductor of the Boise Municipal
Band for many years. He performed for
numerous civic operas and musical productions throughout his career.
In 1992 he
received an Honorary Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Vander Cook College
of Music and retired from Boise State University to pursue his love of music
composition. Upon his retirement he was awarded the prestigious BSU Silver
Medallion.Over the next twenty years more than thirteen of Dr. Shelton’s
original compositions for concert band were published,and additional
commissioned compositions are available from Shelton Music Service. His music
has been performed throughout the United States, Europe, Australia and Japan.
Melvin was
preceded in death by his mother,father,brother Harold,and eldest son Ron. He is
survived by his wife, two daughters and son.
On behalf of his
family we would like to thank all the people who participated in these
organizations throughout the years, and who enrich our lives through the
performing arts. We ask that any donations be made to the Melvin L. Shelton
Scholarship at;BSU Foundation 1910 University
Dr.Boise,ID 83725.
Funeral service
will be held at Alden-Waggoner Funeral Chapel on Monday June 11, 2012 at 2:00
PM. An open house following the service will be provided by Joann Maxson 2902 Alamo St.Boise,ID 83704.
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