Tony Higgins was born on December 5, 1928 in the borough of Manhattan, in New York City. From a very early age, Tony lived and breathed music, mastering several instruments. Even earning a living playing on jobs just out of high school.
Tony began his college career at San Diego State University. On December 11, 1946, he and his younger brother Michael joined the U.S. Army, where they both served their country, keeping spirits high as members of the Army Band. Using his GI Benefits, he then enrolled at Santa Barbara State University, and graduated with a double major in music and education.
Tony began his career as a music teacher in Bakersfield, CA, before settling permanently in San Diego. Over the span of 50+ years with the San Diego Unified School District, he taught at numerous high schools, junior high schools and what then seemed to be his favorite, elementary schools. His love of music and keen ability to inspire young people made him the kind of teacher that students remember, even decades later. In his later years when he was out and about, he would often hear, “Mr. Higgins, is that you?” from former students. He remembered his students as well, and always had time for a chat. His family has since learned that several of his students were so moved by the experiences they had in the class rooms of Tony Higgins, that many of went on to become musicians and/or music teachers themselves.
During Tony’s long and impressive professional music career, he played with many ‘Big Bands’. Tony played with the Fine Bill Green Orchestra for 23 years. He also played with the Glenn Miller Band with Tex Beneke, the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, and the Les Elgart Orchestra. He was often asked to play backed up for some of the biggest names in entertainment including: Joan Rivers, Whitney Houston, Sammy Davis Jr., Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Jimmy Durante, Jack Jones, Rich Little, Mel Torme, Patty Page, John Denver, Andy Williams and many, many more.
Not only was music his element, but it also helped him forge lifelong friendships with his many fellow bandmates. He truly treasured his fellow musicians. Especially in his later years, having a music job to go to is what kept his creative juices flowing, and kept him feeling young.
Tony Higgins was a consummate showman. Tony was also a very private person who would recede to the sanctuary of his music studio for several hours, every day, to practice. He may have thought his family did not hear him, or that we were not listening, but we were. His songs, scales, and practice pieces that we were so lucky to hear, became the soundtrack to our lives. They will play on forever in our hearts and will always help us remember him.
Music has the power to make people feel happy and you now hold the keys.
It is in keeping with Tony Higgins’ spirit that we present you with your very own instrument. It is yours to keep and treasure. It is my family’s desire that you will become part of the
Legacy of Music
