Homer Fiero

Homer Fiero was born in Canandaigua, NY. His mother played piano, and had him take both piano and clarinet, taking him to Rochester for lessons with a Philharmonic clarinetist. He received a B.S. in Music from Ithaca College, and a Master of Music from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. In 1945, Mr. Fiero came to Hamburg, hired to build up the band program. He recruited new members from older elementary students through high school grades. During his first year of teaching, the band doubled its membership. Under his able leadership, the band continued to receive superior ratings at music contests, year after year. He initiated West Point-style uniforms, and baton and flag twirlers for the marching band, which participated in football games and town parades. His great love for the harp led him to begin a Harp Program, including the purchase of a harp for school use. He also was Director of the Kingsmen Drum and Bugle Corp for some years. He had a keen interest in each of his students, gladly giving extra lessons when needed. In addition, he had -a gift of transmitting tremendous enthusiasm and appreciation for music to them. Those who continued on with music as a career said they did so due to his encouragement and belief in them. He arose each day excited about teaching music. This man truly made a difference in the lives of his students as well as those who knew him personally, leaving a lasting legacy of music in the Hamburg Schools.