Moving On: The Picking of a New Band Teacher

As Mr. Patterson readies for his retirement, band director Mr. Kolusu has been selected to take his place as the Wind Symphony band director. As Mr. Kolusu prepares to take over, the question arises, who will take Kolusu’s place as the second band director?

When hiring the assistant band director, Associate Principal Mrs. Roland asked band members from differing sections to be part of the interview process of the new band director. These students were handpicked and tasked to watch and play for each band director and judge their conducting. The students were obligated to take a shift during the day to help within the band interview process, where they would play their instruments and give compliments towards each conductor. 

Multiple applicants had applied to be the assistant band director from all over the states, but only four applicants were selected to be judged by the students.

Junior Beverly Zheng said, “I think everyone who was in that room interviewing would’ve been a great candidate and they all had a great passion for band and music.” 

Another junior, Ian Koch, mentioned, “It was a good learning experience for everyone that was there.” He mentioned that the students were able to sight read various pieces of music and see different styles of conducting. Moreover, he said, “I appreciate the amount of effort all the candidates showed as they were taking students’ input.” 

Senior Nathan Nevenhoven said, “All of the candidates did well and all of the students really undertook the responsibilities of being a part of the interview process and were respectful towards each candidate.” He also mentions that the candidates all seemed relatively experienced and knowledgeable in music and band collectively. 

Recently, the new band director was announced, and it was a band director from Winterset, Mr. Drake Van Roekel.

Junior Jack Rand said, “I’m excited to see the new band director grow with the band and how he interacts with us.” Jack was a part of the interview process and is thankful for being a part of the experience. 

The band director has already begun discussing the new upcoming band show for the Waukee Warrior Regiment, and he is especially excited to get to know each and every one of the band members.