Millard "Mel" Eugene Hall

Millard “Mel” Eugene Hall, born 1930 – Died October 28, 2021

Born --- Died... for Mel, the dash between was a lifelong love of music. The night of his High School graduation, he jumped on the band bus and went on the road. Played in The Harry Collins Orchestra, 549th U.S. Air Force Band (at “Hill Field” where he played trumpet, wrote arrangements and led the dance band), then went out on his own.

He attended the U of U on the GI bill, studying music. Leading a number of bands over the years, his first focus was the 17 piece big band.

In several iterations, the Mel Hall Band played the Danceland, Rainbow Raindevu, Terrace Ballroom, Saltair, Lagoon, Ambassador Club, Red Butte Gardens, Trolley Square, Utah Arts Festival, Utah Fairgrounds and O.C. Tanner Amphitheater.

On the stage (late ‘50s and early ‘60s) the band played with: Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme, Sue Raney, Dave Brubeck Quartet, June Christy, George Hamilton IV, Pat Boone, Johnnie Ray, The Four Aces, Julius La Rosa, The Ames Brothers, The Four Freshmen, the Osmond Brothers, Jimmie F. Rodgers and The Axidentals.

Writing and arranging symphonic and Jazz music, he became an accomplished, award winning, composer.

Most musicians need a 'day job.' Mel's was primarily in advertising where he won a number of innovation and performance awards.

In addition to music, Mel loved culturally diverse art, with a special affinity for African, Hispanic, Southwest and Native American art ,and loved all things western.

Though not much of an outdoorsman, playing golf was another way he loved to spend time. He could be found on the golf course whenever his schedule and back allowed.

Later in life, he developed a love of teaching. He taught many classes at the Bryman School. He delighted in his students, cherishing the "male chauvinist pig" awards they would lovingly give him at the end of a semester.

Mel is survived by four sons, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Special thanks to the staff at Cottonwood Creek and Inspiration Hospice for their dedicated caregiving.

No formal service is planned. Cremation has taken place and interment will be at the Veteran’s cemetery in Bluffdale.