“Ninety-five years is an incredible run, especially spanning over 60 years as a central figure in D.C.’s jazz scene. It’s remarkable how figures like Bobby Felder manage to be both celebrated performers and dedicated educators. I wonder what advice he often gave his students about navigating the evolving music landscape over those decades.”
– Melocool Music, in reference to the story “Remembering Jazz Legend, Educator Robert ‘Bobby’ Felder”
Inspiring Health Warriors
“This is so amazing. I love seeing us warriors be venerable and speak up about our struggles and in such a creative way. Your story is making a difference in our community. Such an inspiration to so many warriors such as myself. Can’t wait to see the film. Rooting for you!”
– Adri, in reference to the story “From IV Lines and Hospital Tubing to Punchlines and International Stages”
I was in one of the bands that Bobby Felder started at Kelly Miller Junior High school. He believed in the students and encouraged their ability. The school had received new instruments like a basson, French horn and oboe. The principal didn’t want the students in the top academic track to play in the band. But Mr. Folder worked with the vocal music teacher to let us come to his class when we were supposed to be in her class. It was the best thing that could have happened for us. We all appreciated the opportunity to do what we enjoyed and the support and encouragement we received from Mr. Folder. I played the French Horn from that time through my freshman year at Howard University.
I have just heard the sad news about the passing of Bobby Felder, whom I came to know and love when I was a student at UDC back in the 80s. I was one of the few white students in the music department – -and the university at large — but Bobby just saw me for who I really was, which had nothing to do with the color of my skin: I was a professional journalist in my late twenties who was struggling with many issues in her life and just wanted to learn more about music. I studied guitar with Bobby, but far more important than the guitar-playing techniques Bobby taught me were the lessons he taught me about living: “Cream rises,” he’d always say to me with a smile, reminding me to be self-confident no matter what was happening in my life. He was a great music teacher and mentor, but more than that, he was for a time my guardian angel, always looking out for my best interests. Bless you, Bobby Felder, for all the beautiful music you gave the world, and for your kind, gentle, beautiful spirit. I’m sure you’re already playing your trombone for the angels!