Former Deputy-Bandmaster Robert C. Schramm, Promoted to Glory
Former Deputy-Bandmaster Robert C. Schramm, Promoted to Glory
Tribute by Dr. Steve Kellner
It is with heavy hearts that we report that our former Deputy Bandmaster and Principal Euphonium, Robert Schramm, was Promoted to Glory on February 21, 2024. One of the most important players and leaders in our nearly 100-year history, Bob served with the band from 1961 until 1998.
An exceptional euphoniumist, Bob was featured as a soloist with the band on hundreds of concerts, sometimes playing solos of his own composition. A gifted composer and arranger, he wrote many pieces for the band, several of them published by The Salvation Army, including “Children’s Song”, which was recorded by the International Staff Band. Bob was also a band manager, librarian, quartermaster, loadmaster, and general organizer nonpareil, and his can-do spirit pervades the operation of the band even today.
Deputy Bandmaster Robert C. Schramm plays the euphonium solo "The Warrior" in 1968
Bob came to the Washington, DC area in the fall of 1961 when he joined the U.S. Air Force Band as a euphoniumist. He later served as a music copyist for the band, and his handwritten manuscripts are legendary for their artistry and craftsmanship. While still on active duty, Bob served as the first Divisional Music Director of the National Capital and Virginias Division from 1977-1983, one of the first DMD’s in the Southern Territory. After retiring from the US Air Force Band, Bob worked as a software engineer until retiring with his wife Naomi to the Delaware shore.
Naomi also played in the NCB for many years, as have children Robbie and Karen and granddaughters Elizabeth and Rebekah. Robbie is still a member of the band with nearly 40 years of service, and there has been a member of the Schramm family in the NCB continuously since 1961.
Bob served as the longtime bandmaster of the Prince Georges, Maryland, Corps, and mentored many budding brass players there, including current NCB bandmaster Steve Kellner. He also served as a Sunday School teacher for many years after stepping down as bandmaster.
We salute the long and faithful service of our departed comrade with a heartfelt “Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master!”
Bob and his wife, Naomi