August 26, 1950 to April 4, 2013

The Eastbay Banjo Club lost a large part of its heart and soul when we learned of the sudden passing of Bill Cooper, our dedicated Music Director since 1978. Bill’s passion for the banjo and traditional jazz music inspired many, many others to learn and then promote the joys and happiness the banjo brings to the world. He raised the spirits of countless numbers of people while leading the club on stage and during practice. He accepted and encouraged banjo players of all skill levels to practice and perform the music he and the audiences loved. Bill was not only a highly accomplished banjo player, but arranged all the music for the club. His rich collection of arrangements will be played to the delight of audiences for years to come.