Longtime COC music professor dies at 88

Posted: February 28, 2013 11:52 a.m. / Updated: February 28, 2013 11:52 a.m. By Signal Staff

‘Dirk’ Fischer taught generations of college musicians

Longtime College of the Canyons jazz professor and music director Stewart Roussin Fischer, known to many as “Dirk,” died Monday at the age of 88.

Fischer worked in the COC music department for 28 years before retiring in 2005. He was the college’s first instructor of jazz studies and director of the college’s jazz band.

While at the college he established some long-standing traditions, including the annual jazz ensemble performance during graduation.

He helped establish the annual RK Downs Jazz Festival, a regular event that honors former COC music instructor R.K. Downs.

Born in Durand, Mich., Fischer honed his musical skills from choir and band in public schools and at church.

In a 2004 interview with The Signal, Fischer said he studied music in Minneapolis for two years before making his way westward to Los Angeles in 1959.

Even after his retirement, Fischer was a regular visitor to the COC campus, making guest appearances at performances, practice sessions and classes.

Read more: http://www.signalscv.com/section/36/article/90274/