Dr. Michael A. Hernon

Renowned musician and educator, Dr. Michael A. Hernon, age 79, died Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at his residence.

Dr. Hernon received his Bachelor of Music degree from Murray State University, Master of Arts from Western Kentucky University, and Doctor of Philosophy from Vanderbilt University. He joined the University of Tennessee at Martin Music Faculty in 1973 where he taught for 38 years and held the rank of Professor Emeritus. During his time at UTM, he taught Music History, Music Appreciation, French Horn, Brass Repertoire and Pedagogy. He conducted countless ensembles including French horn choirs, brass choirs, and recorder ensembles. Hernon was an accomplished author of numerous articles and publications including French Horn Discography published by Greenwood Press. In 2013, he was the recipient of the International Horn Society’s Punto Award for his contributions to the world of music.

Prior to his tenure at UTM, Dr. Hernon was a faculty member of Brescia University and taught in the public school systems in Owensboro and Scottsville, Kentucky. Today, Hernon’s students can be found teaching in colleges and public schools, and playing in orchestras across the world.

In addition to his commitment to education, Hernon was an active performer in the region and served for many years in the horn sections of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, and the Paducah Symphony Orchestra.

He was a lifelong member of the International Horn Society, the Southeastern Musicological Society, the American Musicological Society, a Kentucky Colonel, and a Mason.

Dr. Hernon was the dearest and best husband, father, grandfather, educator, colleague, friend, and hero to so many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Muriel Hernon and his beloved son, Michael Benjamin Hernon. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Huffman Hernon of Martin; his daughter, Terri Hernon of Martin; his grandchildren, Alyssa Hernon of Glasgow, Scotland, Alexis Arnold of Boston MA, and Elizabeth Harrison of Martin.

Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 1, 2019, 3:00 pm at the University of Tennessee at Martin Fine Arts Building. Visitation will begin at 12:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made via donation to the University of Tennessee Department of Music, 108 Fine Arts, 16 Mt. Pelia Road., Martin, TN 38238.