I studied with trumpet with Basil Drew while I attended West Carrollton High School (graduated in 1967). What a wonderful trumpeter and an outstanding person. I think of Basil often. In fact, I still enjoy practicing the Amsden Duets we played together during many of my private lessons. Basil allowed me to slip in at Suttmiller's to hear him play shows, many times. He, to a major extent, is why I became a professional trumpeter. He told me that if I was going to be a professional trumnpet player, I would have to learn tunes. The first tune he had me learn and place in my "book" was Misty. Basil made a big impression on me as a student and musician. I am very sorry to learn of his passing. What a wonderful person and great trumpeter. He will be missed but his memory will live on in the hearts of al of us who appreciated him so very much. Ron Lawrence (Dallas, Texas) www.ronlawrencemusic.com


I am a 1973 graduate of Fairmont West High School.  Mr. Drew was an excellent musician, teacher, and life coach.

For me, Mr. Drew was the reason I am the trumpet player and musician I am today. Hearing of his passing grieved my spirit and moved me because of what Mr. Drew poured into me as his student. I began taking lessons with him in 6th grade and was very nervous on our first lesson. But I remember so well his kindness and his tender heart, not to just teach music, but to teach morals, and what it means to live. Most lessons we worked out of the Arbans book on double tonguing or something similar, but the lessons I remember most were the times that we sat the horns down, and just talked. I remember just talking about my future in music with Mr. Drew, something I never talked with anyone else about. I will never forget the love and kindness the Mr. Drew showed not only me but my whole family the time I was his student. I am currently a sophomore going to Lee University in Cleveland Tennessee studying trumpet in the school of music, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the reason I made it this far was because of Mr. Drew. He is greatly missed. Love and peace go out to his family

I took private lessons from Basil from 1977-1979. He prepared me to audition successfully for college as a music major. Even if I came to a lesson unprepared, he was never angry or pushy, always patient and encouraging. I'll never forget his Parduba double cup mouthpiece and his Selmer K-modified trumpet.  Basil was one of a kind.  Our loss is eternity's gain.

My heartfelt condolences to my Uncle Basil's son, Lee, his sister, Charlotte, Sadie, his dear companion and the rest of the family. I will always remember him as a sweetheart and regret that I never got to see him play at Sutmiller's. I always wanted to as a child, but moved across the country before I was old enough. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy and will be truly missed by all.

I just received word that Basil passed away.  I met him in elementary school when I started taking trumpet lessons from him at Hauer's Music.  He possessed great teaching traits that made him stand out--first, he was an amazing musician, and could play many different styles very well.  This was inspirational as a young horn player.  Second, he had the experience and pedagogical skills to know how to fix issues and develop strong musicianship--he knew just how much to push you, and encourage along the way.  He made you want to work a lot harder to prepare for lessons and performances.  By my 8th grade year, he started passing along church performances to me (wedding ceremonies, Easter, and Christmas services).  I thought that was extremely generous, and this continued through my senior year in high school.  This prepared me for auditions at college, and a fulfilling career in musician.  To his close friends and family, I am very sorry for your loss.  For me, I'll continue to cherish the great memories of an outstanding trumpet player and educator.  Rest in Peace.

I was so sad to hear that Mr. Drew has passed away. He was a wonderful man, a gifted musician, and a patient, encouraging and motivating teacher with whom I had the joy of studying and playing trumpet for almost ten years. There was something about Basil - he made me WANT to work hard and make him proud of me. One of my fondest memories of him, after many years as his student was right as I graduated high school. It was our last lesson together, and I had worked and worked practicing a very difficult, fast paced duet in the hope of impressing him. When I showed up for my last lesson, he turned to that duet and asked me with a smile, "All right, are you ready? How fast do you want to take this?" And I replied, "How fast can you GO?" He laughed with delight, and we launched into the duet at a blazing speed...and when we finished, we heard applause from the waiting room. Basil was so kind to me and my older sister, and such a friend to our whole family. I am so sorry to have missed his memorial service and the chance to pay my warmest respects to his family, whom he deeply loved. The world is a little less bright - and yet I carry his lessons - about kindness, disciplined work, and joy in music - with me to this very day.

We are so saddened to hear of Uncle Basil's passing.  He was one of the kindest, sweetest people ever. May he rest in the Arms of the Angels. We will miss you.

Basil was a classy musician and a classy guy too. I have many fond memories, and I'll miss him.


                                                                        Lee McKinney (Yellow Springs)

Basil was the consummate "working musician." He was a terrific player and a great teacher. Basil genuinely cared for his students and fellow musicians, very authentically. And what a great section leader - always a pleasure to be in his section. He will be missed, and he will live on in our hearts and in eternal life.

I will dearly miss my Uncle Basil. He was a kind man with a gentle spirit and a loving heart. My family was privileged to spend many memorable holidays together with Basil. He was an amazing musician and a gifted teacher that touched many lives. He was a humble man that dearly loved his family and was always there for others. We look forward to seeing you again in heaven. May the Lord be with all who love and miss you,
Love you,
John Eric, Carolyn, Jordan, April & Brandon, Ashley & Jason, and all the kids.

OBITUARY

Basil Dixon Drew

December 16, 1926 – September 4, 2014

Tobias Funeral Home - Far Hills Chapel

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