Program Details

MEET THE DIRECTORS

Miss Emily Schmidt, Director of Junior Knights Band; Lancer Band Director; Lesson Instructor; HS Choir and Pep Band Instructor

Hello! My name is Emily Schmidt and I serve as the Director of Luther's Junior Knights Band Program as well as being the Lancer Band Director and a lesson instructor. I also serve as one of Luther's choir instructors and the pep band instructor.

I graduated from Martin Luther College in May of 2020 with degrees in Elementary Education and Secondary Instrumental Education. I was assigned to St. Paul Lutheran School in Tomah, WI, where I served for the past 3 years as a primary grades teacher and in addition to both school and church music.

FunFacts!

- I started learning piano when I was 3 years old, oboe in 5th grade, and percussion and organ in high school.

- I ran a music program for 3 summers during college teaching 80-90 music lessons a week.

- One of my favorite parts of being a musician is including different people and instruments in worship!

- I am a firm believer that music is for everyone - you do not have to be able to sing or play an instrument to enjoy it!

Mr. Gregory Baures, Director of Luther High School Band; Sabre Band Director; Lesson Instructor

Hi! I graduated from Martin Luther College in May of 2006 with degrees in Staff Ministry and Parish Music. From 2006-2009 I served as a Music, Youth, and Family Minister in Rochester, MN. I then moved to Plymouth, MN where I served for 11 years as the Fine Arts Chair - director of bands and choirs, art instructor, and drama director at West Lutheran High School. In 2020, my family moved to the La Crosse area. I now spend the majority of my day teaching band lessons. I also direct the Luther High School Band, Sabre Band, and teach a Music Appreciation Class.

Quick Facts:

- My older sisters began teaching me piano when I was 3

- I was originally a trumpet player but our high school band needed more trombones, so I joined the low brass during 8th grade.

- I believe in the power and beauty of music - it can touch your life and your soul

- I am blessed to have a wonderful wife and four young kids at home