At the secondary level, just after studying at Tanglewood (the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra), Begian began his tenure as band director at Detroit's Cass Technical High School, 1947 through 1964.
[5] He pursued a doctorate and college career at the urging of his mentor at Cass Tech, Larry Teal of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
[6] During Begian's tenure at Cass Tech, the program developed a reputation for excellence and was invited to perform at venues such as the prestigious Mid-West Band Clinic in 1954.
[8] Following Begian's tenure at Cass Tech, he earned an EdD (Doctor of Education) degree from the University of Michigan in 1964 (Proquest Dissertations & Theses), and started his college teaching career.
Begian directed the Spartan Marching Band alongside assistant director Bill Moffit from 1967 through 1969 and left a large impact on the SMB during his three years in the position.
[9] Begian was a charter member of the American School Band Director's Association,[8] the Goldman award being their highest honor.