When the Purple Knights Band of Beloit Memorial High School takes the field at halftime of football games, or marches in parades, or participates in music contests, the memory of Donald B. Cuthbert comes quickly to the minds and memory of hundreds of Beloiters. Donald B. Cuthbert received a master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin, where he was a starting tackle on the football team during his sophomore year, when a hip injury and the demands of his music studies ended his playing years. He started teaching as band director in Arthur, Illinois and in 1938 came to Beloit as its band director and music instructor.

Mr. Cuthbert, for more than 30 years, was The Band in the eyes of the thousands of people who heard the music and watched the intricate movements of the band on the field, with Mr. Cuthbert by its side. Mr. Cuthbert was a pioneer in the development of marching performances by his bands, using animated formations that moved across the field and in presenting scripted “theme” shows. He developed outstanding musicians, young people who consistently earned the highest honors in district and state music contests. In the 1950’s Mr. Cuthbert created “Maneuva-Band,” a system of field design to help band directors plan formations, in the style he had developed, which became a business where other bands could learn from his skills and experience. He was in constant demand judging and running clinics from coast to coast.

While Music Director at Beloit Memorial High School, Mr. Cuthbert was asked to become an Assistant Professor of Music at Beloit College, where he organized the Beloit College Band. Mr. Cuthbert was called to Ripon College in the 1970’s as full time Assistant Professor of Music, teaching music education, symphonic literature and symphonic band, until his retirement. Donald B. Cuthbert left a tradition of quality music education and student musician performance that continues today. The Purple Knight Band remains, because of his influence, the pride of the Beloit Community. Mr. Cuthbert was survived by his wife of 57 years, Marian Allen Cuthbert, two sons, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.