Music man earns place in local history

To say that Dr. Dan Cotner is deserving of the honor of having the Cape Girardeau Municipal Band Shell named after him is an understatement.

Known as Cape Girardeau's own River City Music Man, Cotner personifies music and has dedicated his life to sharing that art with the community. Many of us cannot help, already, but think of him whenever we see the band shell, and now when we gather, we will do so at the Dan Cotner Amphitheatre.

On July 29, Cotner was honored in a ceremony sealing his place in local music history, though, of course, he had already secured his legacy. The most tenured municipal band member had long ago proved himself to be a fixture here; the shell is just a fitting tribute to the trombone player, who joined the band back in 1940 at age 17.

How many people have stuck with anything close to 70 years, much less an activity they began as a teenager? But that seems to be what sets Cotner apart. Music is more than an activity for him; it is a part of him, and his place in it has become a part of those of us who have heard him play over the years.

A past recipient of the Southeast Missourian's Spirit of America award, Cotner continues, at the age of 92, to remind us of what is good in America. As we recently reported, he served in World War II and the Korean War, has traveled on mission trips outside the country, and given free dental care. Music is just a piece of Cotner's rich history, but it's a valuable piece.

In addition to the trombone, the musician plays piano and organ and has played for his church and school musicals. He truly has been a source of entertainment and pride in this area.

Congratulations, Dr. Cotner, for an honor well earned.