Mainous, Frank D., 1918-2007

Frank Mainous has received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Kentucky in Lexington, where he has presented several violin recitals. He graduated with department honors in music, and is a member of Phi Mu Alpha, national music fraternity.

Frank Douglas Mainous (1918–2007), a composer, music theory scholar, and director of military bands during World War II, served as interim dean at least twice. He was married to concert pianist and faculty member Jean Mainous, née Harris.[35] He earned a Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music in 1941.

Frank Douglas Mainous, a long-time music faculty member at the University of North Texas, died at his home in Denton on January 1, 2007. Frank was born August 31, 1918 in Appalachia, VA, where he started studying music at the age of 5. He graduated from Appalachia High School, received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Music Degree from Eastman School of Music.

Drafted into the Army in 1941, he joined the Cavalry at Fort Riley, KS. After completing the Army Music School, as Chief Warrant Officer, he directed Army bands throughout the southeastern United States and in Washington, D.C. In 1944, band members were transferred to the 26th"Yankee" Infantry Division, attached to the Third Army, and they took part in battles throughout Europe. Returning to New York in 1944 after discharge from the Army, Frank worked until 1947 as arranger, conductor of radio shows, and teacher at the Brooklyn Conservatory.

He came to North Texas State Teachers College where he served for 36 years as teacher and Coordinator of Theory, Acting Dean, and Assistant Dean until his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 1983. He was the author of seven books, several of them in collaboration with his esteemed colleague, Robert Ottman.

Frank is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean Harris Mainous; his daughter Margot Mainous of Denton; and his son, of Houston.

The University of North Texas will present a Celebration of the Life of Frank Douglas Mainous on Sunday, April 22, 2007, at 2 p.m., at the Concert Hall of the UNT College of Music. The University of North Texas Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Anshel Brusilow, and the Faculty Jazz Quartet will perform.

Friends wishing to honor his memory may contribute to the Frank D. Mainous Memorial Orchestral Scholarship at the UNT College of Music, or to the First Presbyterian Church of Denton.