United States Navy World War II veteran, two-time Syracuse University alum, and renowned musician Don Cantwell was born in Poughkeepsie, New York in 1924 and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1942. He attended St Lawrence University Navy V12 Officers Training Program from 1943-44 and later Notre Dame University’s Navy Midshipman School in 1944. Don attended the U.S. Navy School of Music in Washington, DC, in 1945 and later served with the Navy Flag Band Mediterranean Fleet before being discharged in 1945.
After being discharged, Don attended Syracuse University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a sociology major and psychology minor from the College of Arts and Sciences in 1947. He graduated a year later, in 1948, with a master’s in television and radio from the College of Music.
Don married his first wife, Evelyn, and they had four children: sons William and Robert and daughters Donna and Nancy.
Don began his teaching career at Whitesboro High School as the Music Director in 1952, retiring in 1982 after 33 years of teaching. He also taught at Colgate University from 1965-1968, Hamilton College from 1981-1984, and Mohawk Valley Community College from 1978-1983, all as their music directors.
Don continues to be a renowned musician. He genuinely loves music and still teaches woodwind instruments to students a few days a week in his music studio, which is attached to his home. In 2008, Don received the John Laporte Educator of the Year Award, and he currently continues to play with his jazz band called The Clef Dwellers in and around Oneida County.
Don recently celebrated his 100th birthday with family and about 100 close friends, including past and current students at Unity Hall in Barneveld, New York. He gave a “concert” along with his band for all in attendance. Don is an avid Syracuse University football and basketball fan, never missing a televised game.
