FM founder,1981

A TRIBUTE TO BOB GOBRECHT – MAESTRO SUPREME

From 2011 WI Chpt fair

Frustrated Maestros founder Bob Gobrecht passed away June 22, 2006. Bob was the heart and spirit of our Frustrated Maestros, and we will miss him. Bob and Betty founded Frustrated Maestros in 1981.They received the first Chapter Charter in July, 1981 with 40 members. Bob was President and Betty was secretary Treasurer. Bob Joked that they started with his Tuba, a flute, and 40 Kazoos. Now there are 10 Frustrated Maestros Chapters representing all nine FMCA geographic Areas, plus an International Chapter. There are over 800 members, (400 families). Through Frustrated Maestros Bob has touched the lives of thousands of FMCA members. We perform at every Area Rally, and both International Conventions, (12 rallies, 36 performances, plus special and local rallies).


The first performance was at a California Chapter Octoberfest. The next at an International Convention in Costa Mesa. Bob Started many Frustrated Maestros traditions at these performances. He began the first day with the national anthems of Canada and The United States. We sing and play the “good ol’ songs”. Some of them older than many of us. Bob Started with Kazoos, and we still feature Kazoos at least once in our program. Bob added tambourines, second liners with decorated parasols, and of course, our distinctive Red and White outfits. Bob’s programs also feature a salute to our armed services.


Bob’s legacy to FMCA is the Frustrated Maestros. Bob’s legacy to us, the Frustrated Maestros is the vehicle that allows us the good times, the friendships, comradeship, and the opportunity to enjoy and share music with all of you


Our programs will not be the same without Bob, but there will always be something of in the programs. We will miss his Tuba solos, his great sense of humor, his inspirational Fight On Spirit. He could always squeeze in two measures of Fight On in any song. We will miss Bob, but we remember him when we see the Red & White.