Introduction
Earl E. McCoy (Indianapolis, December 6, 1884 – El Paso, July 13, 1934) was an American composer, conductor, oboist, trombonist, violinist, and pianist.
Early life and education
McCoy was born as Earl Elleson McCoy on December 6, 1884, in Indianapolis to William A. McCoy (1844-1905) and Elizabeth McClain McCoy (1851-1922). He was raised in Dallas, Texas, where he was introduced to wind music at an early age.
In the years 1905-1906, he attended the University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois, majoring in music and playing in the band led by Albert Austin Harding. He later studied music at the Chicago Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois.
Career
In 1905, McCoy composed his most famous work, the Lights Out March while attending the University of Illinois.
He wrote a number of works for wind orchestra. In 1920, he signed a 10-year contract with the Majestic Circuit Roman Novarro. In 1930, he moved to El Paso, Texas, and became conductor of the College of Mines and Metallurgy Band. McCoy was one of the co-founders of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra as well as the El Paso Symphony Orchestra.
Over the years, he worked as a conductor in various theatre orchestras as well as in wind orchestras in New York City, Rochester, Chicago, and Dallas.
Personal life
McCoy married Maye Bess Blaisdell (1882-1961) in 1909 in Danville, Illinois.
Death
McCoy died on July 13, 1934, in El Paso, Texas. He was 49.