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In this episode of Beyond Artless, we sit down with Tony Boldt, a passionate educator and musician from Kasson-Mantorville Schools, whose leadership and creativity continue to shape the musical experiences of young performers in his community.

Tony shares his journey as both a teacher and a performer—reflecting on how music shaped his life, what fuels his work in education, and the joys (and occasional chaos) that come with directing student musicians. With authenticity, humor, and heart, Tony blends musicianship with mentorship in a way that reminds us why music education matters.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Tony’s path to becoming a music educator and performer
• The realities of teaching band in a growing and evolving program
• Why continuing to perform keeps him grounded as an educator
• Thoughts on building culture, connection, and student confidence
• Lessons learned from the classroom, podium, and community stage
• The meaningful—and often hilarious—moments that define a music career

This conversation celebrates the teachers who show up, lift others up, and inspire students to chase possibility. Tony’s perspective is a reminder that music education isn’t just about notes and technique—it’s about people, purpose, and lifelong artistry.

Learn More About Tony Here:

http://www.rochestercommunityband.org/dbpage.php?pg=director

https://hub.yamaha.com/music-educators/40-under-40/2024/boldt-tony/

Credits

• Blue Parrot Rag, Martha Mier.  https://youtu.be/LpJ3lINGCDA?si=SdWxM10UEpOcacPy
• Sunbloom - Gavin Lendt (Concert Band, Grade 3). Gavin Lendt captures the energy and optimism of a new day in Sunbloom, a fast-paced and uplifting Grade 3 work inspired by the motion and momentum of a runner’s journey.  https://youtu.be/o0ZcvAWc_TQ?si=nY2clFACYCKXs2x8
• Hope Ahead, by Brian Balmages – Score & Sound https://youtu.be/SArtqsSQcxQ?si=DBNhriEYaB2i7wB7 Learn more about this ComMission Possible work here: https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission/archive

CHECK IT OUT!

Check out our NEW Website and get a Grade 1.5 new work "Fanfare on Joy To The World" by Erika Svanoe.  PLUS Register For:

• ComMission Possible 2026 with Adrian Simms
• Rising Music Educator Program
• Building Better Bands Day

SPECIAL GIFT TO OUR MOST DEDICATED COMMUTERS WHO ACTUALLY READ THE SHOW NOTES: https://youtu.be/yncdWVj31_A

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