In the Coastal Bend region, where the rhythms of life are often underscored by the melodies of music, there exists a profound sense of loss as the community mourns the passing of a beloved figure: Del Mar College Music Professor David Irving. Yet amidst the sorrow, there is a collective acknowledgment of the enduring legacy left behind by this musical maestro.
For 45 years, Irving graced the music halls of Del Mar College, where he not only imparted his extensive knowledge of music but also instilled within his students a deep-seated passion for the art form. With the intricacies of jazz improvisation, Irving’s classes were not merely academic exercises but transformative experiences that left an indelible mark on countless individuals.
His journey in music education began long before his tenure at Del Mar College. Serving as a band director in communities such as Ingleside and Mart, Irving demonstrated an unwavering commitment to nurturing musical talent at the grassroots level, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to his craft.
But Irving’s impact transcended the confines of the classroom. He was a staunch advocate for the local music scene, lending his support to various initiatives aimed at promoting musical excellence within the community. Whether it was the vibrant energy of the Texas Jazz Festival, the festive spirit of Tuba Christmas, or the stirring performances of the Corpus Christi Municipal Band, Irving’s presence was felt far and wide.
Despite retiring from Del Mar College in 2017, Irving’s influence continued to reverberate. Cynthia Bridges, Dean of Communications, Fine Arts, and Social Sciences at DMC, reflects on Irving’s enduring legacy.
“I think his biggest gift was his love for his students. He truly cared for them and they for him. This legacy was on full display at his memorial services last Sunday evening. Some traveled long distances.”
As the community gathered to bid farewell to this musical luminary, the First United Methodist Church in Corpus Christi served as a fitting backdrop for a final tribute to a man whose life was intertwined with the very fabric of the Coastal Bend’s musical heritage.
Bridges recalls receiving a text message from Irving’s family stating his feeble condition. Soon after he took his last breath.
Though David Irving may have taken his final bow, his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all those who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. As the music swells and the melodies linger, his spirit endures, a timeless reminder of the transformative power of music and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.