Today, in Rockefeller Center, in New York City, was the 31st annual Tuba Christmas performance. Harvey Phillips and conductor Chris Wilhelm spoke of Dr. Fennell's passing and his greatness, and the 450+ massed ensemble of tubas and euphoniums played Bach's 'Come Sweet Death' followed by Silent Night in express tribute to Dr. Fennell.
About a year ago my daughter was fortunate to spend a week under Dr. Fennell's direction when he conducted a workshop and festival at St. Olaf College. She said he was an amazing conductor, commanding awe and inspiring all of the musicians.
As a tuba player myself, I had the great honor of being conducted by Dr. Fennell in Chicago, IL at a Tuba Christmas performance outside the Wrigley building in 1983 (at least I think it was 1983). He was joined by Tuba Christmas founder Harvey Phillips. What a joyous experience that was for me, for all of us, collegiate tubists at the time.
May perpetual light shine on him. May he rest in peace.