Recently, a terrific mentor and citizen, Mr. Frank Birdwell, passed away.
Mr. Birdwell was the founder and director of the Liberty Academy of the Arts in Hampton, Virginia. I had the privilege of joining the Liberty Academy Orchestra for about a year.
I first met Mr. Birdwell in 2012 at a middle school district orchestra rehearsal, where I had volunteered as a piano accompanist. For one piece, the percussion section needed an extra hand, so I joined in. There was Mr. Birdwell.
For those next ten minutes, I played the bass drum alongside Mr. Birdwell, who even helped me learn the proper technique! (He must have realized that percussion was not my strength, and asked what my primary instrument was!)
It was there that he offered me the opportunity to play the Grieg Piano Concerto with his orchestra! This was the beginning of such a rewarding chapter of my life. I became a member of an orchestra composed of such talented middle and high school students under the direction of a selfless and passionate man – playing music to unite the community and for the glory of God.
Mr. Birdwell was a shining example of an unforgettable mentor, so willing to devote time and energy into fostering the talents of the youth. He believed in providing aspiring musicians the opportunities and skills to grow, and we all learned to meet that generosity with a strong conviction to give back to the community, through dinners, fundraisers, and music.
Mr. Frank Birdwell will be missed by all who were blessed to know him. His legacy as an ambassador for music and The Lord will live on.
4 replies on “In Memory of Mr. Frank Birdwell”
I was a orchestra student of Mr. Birdwell at Huntington Middle School. He made a big difference in my life he introduced me to the beautiful world of classical music. He always displayed patience with me especially in my difficult moments. The last time I saw him was in 2001 and still he was a man of great demeanor.
Thank You for sharing your nice thoughts. I am also thankful to have known Mr. Birdwell! He was truly dedicated to spreading the joy of music and helping others.
Our family met Frank in 1983 when he was still teaching music in the Hampton schools. What a wonderful person and representative of our Savior. Our three daughters all were blessed by his wonderful music and teaching. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Thank You for your thoughts. Mr. Birdwell touched the lives of so many. We are truly blessed!