Background
Don Hassler was born on June 6, 1929.
Don Hassler was born on June 6, 1929.
He studied and played music throughout his early education, starting in the fifth grade. He attended Northwestern University, earning a Bachelor"s degree in music theory in 1950.
He is known for his membership and performances in jazz bands and symphonic orchestras, in which he played the saxophone and bassoon. He also served in military bands for seventeen years, including as the commander of the 63rd Infantry Division Band. When he was 71, he earned a Master"s degree in musical performance from Arizona State University.
Military In 1948, Hassler joined the Illinois National Guard 33rd Division in Chicago.
He became master sergeant (East-7) and associate conductor in 1952, then warrant officer and bandmaster. After moving to Harvey, Illinois in 1953, he transferred to the 33rd Division Tank Company and became the unit administrator.
In 1955, he moved to Los Angeles and transferred to the Army Reserve 63rd Division. He became chief warrant officer, bandmaster, conductor, and finally commander of the 63rd Infantry Division Band.
While he was in command, they recorded a transcription disk of military marches for Armed Forces Radio at the Western Avenue headquarters.
He was promoted to first lieutenant, AG Corps, and assigned to division headquarters as captain. In 1962, he left the Army Reserve band and transferred to the 205th Public Information Army Overseas Radio Station, part of the Sixth United States Army. He was the band leader until his resignation in 1965.
He served 17 years in the National Guard and Army Reserves as a musician.
He also played saxophone in local jazz bands, including Bergie Crandall and his Let"s Dance Band, Myron Sommerfeld and his of the Stars Orchestra, and the Jump Jive n" Wailers Swing Band. 1956: Hollywood Junior Chamber of Commerce (Junior Chamber of Commerce) – Member 1958-1959: Hollywood Junior Chamber of Commerce (Junior Chamber of Commerce) – President.
