‘Sound’ Gift Makes Way to TAMIU’s Killam Library
A truly “sound” gift has come to Texas A&M International University (TAMIU).
Colonel Stephen Fischer, Ph.D. has provided a gift of his substantial recorded music collection to the University’s Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library.
The gift, encompassing some 900+ titles, has been amassed throughout Dr. Fischer’s life and spans music of all genres, including classical, choral, jazz, opera, symphonic and pop music.
Fischer is originally from Evansvile, Ind., but relocated to San Antonio in 2011, previously living in Washington, D.C. for 19 years after retiring from the US Air Force in 1992 and commercial aviation in 2010.
His interest in donating his collection to the University arose when he attended a Laredo Phil concert here featuring globally acclaimed organist Paul Jacobs. He had a chance to meet both Jacobs and TAMIU president Dr. Ray Keck and later broached the possibility of a donation with Dr. Keck, who eagerly agreed.
“It seemed a great place and music school that would benefit from the collection and I’m happy to help contribute to the program at TAMIU,” Fischer said.
Fischer explained that he developed an affinity for music at a young age and recalled the catalyst provided by his fifth grade music appreciation teacher.
“I was part of a fifth grade music appreciation class, common in schools at that time. To this day, when I hear pieces that teacher played, like the Peer Gynt Suite, I recall her passion for music and that classroom. Today, music remains my anchor,” he said.
While he would go on to study and earn advanced degrees in aeronautical engineering and physiology, he continued formal education and training in both piano and organ performance and remains both an accomplished pianist and organist, often practicing daily.
Through the years, no matter where he traveled or was stationed with the Air Force or private sector, Fischer continued to grow his expansive collection, including special pressings, limited editions and out-of-print discs.
His move to San Antonio, while practical, has also exposed him to numerous new cultural and musical opportunities.
“I lived in Washington for over 24 years and grew tired of the weather and bad traffic and was encouraged to consider a move to San Antonio when visiting friends. It’s a great community and I’m very impressed by the presence of arts, culture and music here,” he said.
Fischer said he hopes to continue to visit Laredo and TAMIU in the future and looks forward to opportunities to enjoy the arts further here.
For more information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at 956.326.2180, email prmis@tamiu.edu or visit offices in the Killam Library, room 268.
University office hours are from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday.
Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu