Page 18 - Spring 2024

Spotlight on Alumni, continued...

Dave says he was encouraged by all his teachers who made an
impression on him to study, do his best and follow his dreams. He
finds it ironic that he returned to Houlton as a music educator, and
he remained at Houlton High School for 43 years! “Forty-three years
of teaching and working with some of the most outstanding music
educators and music students.”

Among the many influenced by “McGill” is his son, Ryan, now a
professor of music at Morehead State University in Kentucky. In 1985,
Dave founded McGill’s Community Band. This multi-generational
ensemble continues to be a major source of community pride. It
gives local musicians the opportunity to continue playing, even after
high school. While Dave no longer conducts McGill’s Band, he does
continue to play and can be seen, along with all the other musicians,
on any Thursday night during the summer (weather permitting)
in the downtown park. Just another example of an experience
combining the wonderful musicians and community in Houlton.

On behalf of the many music students who have participated in all the ensembles at Houlton High School, we say
thank you to the dedicated staff who have helped us develop our passion.

About the author: Richard Nickerson is a 1981 graduate of Houlton High School and a longtime music educator. He
was influenced by Larry Hutchinson, Pat Flemington, Paul LaPointe, Gladys Tarbell, Dave McGillicuddy, Scott Emack and
Mark Scally (and many others)

Class of 1967
at Class Gathering in 2023

Left to Right
Seated: Brenda Clark Paget, Linda Brewer Drake,
Nancy Dow Wright, Becky Campbell Miller

Standing: Vicki & Allen Jones, Richard & Nancy Corey,
Larry & Valerie Pellitier, Andrea Joselyn Tidd, Luanne
Belyea Tuttle, Joanne Fowler Carpenter

Back row: Sue & Gil Karnes, Gloria Drake Folsom

18 www.houltonalumni.com