Dr Gail R. Hall

Dr. Gail R. Hall, born on December 31st, 1947, passed away at the age of 76 on March 8th, 2024 in his home with his loving wife and partner of 52 years, Jennifer P. Hall by his side after succumbing to several life-threatening challenges. An internationally acclaimed saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist, he was also a master recitalist, pedagogue, adjudicator, and clinician, working with legendary figures ranging from Frederick Fennell and Bob Hope to Marcel Mule and the Barnum and Bailey Circus. He was a dear friend and colleague of renowned saxophonist Eugene Rousseau, as well as a designer and artist for Yamaha. In this capacity, he toured Europe as a soloist with many orchestras, including the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and performed the Badings Concerto for Saxophone for Henk Badings. Dr. Hall was the Professor of Saxophone at the University of Oklahoma from 1993-2013 and had previously been the woodwind specialist and Jazz Program Director at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota from 1973-1991. At these universities, he taught hundreds of students who went on to pass along his love of music and life to their own students, spanning multiple generations. He received his DMA at the University of Oklahoma, MM at East Texas State University, and BM/BME at Tarleton State University. Gail loved being with Jennifer on their motorboat as she water skied, adored his many cats, and cherished his students. He was the true wind beneath Jennifer’s wings.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer, his niece Stacie Hall and his kitties: Venus, Vanna, Blacky, Angel, Freckles, Kokopelli, Buddy, Mini Me and Tommy.

In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make a donation in his name to the charity of your choice.

A celebration of life for Gail will be held Friday, April 12, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Service, 1109 North Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071.