But students will not remember Everett only for his musicality. In addition to his tireless attention to sound quality during band rehearsals, Kennard says that the director is especially revered amongst his students for his jokes.

“They have that really wonderful ability to make you cringe as you’re laughing,” he said.

As Director of Harvard Bands, Everett oversees the University Band, Harvard Wind Ensemble, and Harvard Jazz Bands. He also founded the Harvard Summer Pops Band in 1972. Following his retirement, he plans to travel with his wife Betsy and write articles that shed light on underappreciated jazz musicians.

According to a press release from the Office for the Arts, Everett’s career will be celebrated with a jazz band concert dedicated to him that will feature two former students and musicians, Joshua Redman ’91 and Donald K. Braden ’85.

“We will miss him dearly, but I definitely want to be among the chorus of people thanking him for what he has done and making sure everyone knows how important his contribution has been,” Monson said. “We hope that, as the program moves forward, we will find someone with that same spirit.”

The Office of the Arts is still in the process of finding Everett’s replacement. Assistant Director of Bands Mark E. Olson will serve as acting director during the interim.

—Staff writer Gina K. Hackett can be reached at ghackett@college.harvard.edu.