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Frank Cipolla, a longtime professor and band director in the Department of Music, died Feb. 11. He was 97.

Born in Buffalo, Cipolla discovered his first love, the trumpet, at the age of 8. He played in various clubs during his youth, then went on to study at the Eastman School of Music and the Vienna Academy of Music and Arts. He was a member of the Kansas City Philharmonic before joining UB in 1961.

During his 30 years on the music faculty, Cipolla was known as “the Chief,” serving as director and conductor of the UB marching and symphonic bands, as well as the wind ensemble. Family members say he continued to practice the trumpet “with passion” until his final days.

A published author and noted scholar in the field of early American bands, Cipolla wrote about the major figures of band history, was an editor and researcher, and created a bibliography of writings in the field. He worked to integrate historic band music into the repertoires of modern bands. His latest book, a biography of P.S. Gilmore, will be published posthumously.

Cipolla and his wife of 72 years, Wilma, shared a love of the outdoors and were members of the Adirondack Mountain Club. He enjoyed hiking, skiing, biking and canoeing.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. March 1 at Calvary Episcopal Church, 20 Milton St., Williamsville. A reception will follow in the church hall.