Band Director Bids Farewell

By Mar Ayala, Editor in Chief

May, 2022

With the end of the school year, seniors aren’t the only ones bidding farewell. Brian Klenzendorf, KAC’s music director is also having to say goodbye. Although his work with KIPP Collegiate may be over, he still has more to offer and say.

Mar Ayala: How long have you been teaching?
Brian Klenzendorf: 19 years

MA: Where have you taught before teaching at KAC?
BK: I taught at McCallum High School Fine Arts Academy

MA: What made you want to be a band director?
BK: Best advice I ever got was: “If you do something you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” My love is music!

MA: What were some of your biggest achievements working as a band director at KAC?
BK: First of all, I don’t think of them as my achievements, but as my students’ achievements. We’ve had nine students over the years get accepted to Berklee’s 5-Week Summer Music program on full scholarship (approximately $13,000). The band, steel band, and guitar ensembles have all received numerous awards and accolades over the years and have performed with guest artists from all over the US, and several other countries as well. Many of my students have received top honors and placement in competitions such as All-Region Band and Solo & Ensemble. We have tremendous partnerships with community organizations such as Anthropos Arts, Austin Soundwaves, Inside Out Steelband, and Austin Classical Guitar. Etc.

MA: Where will you be working next? What does it entail?
BK: I’m planning on continuing to work with KIPP Texas and support all of the Fine Arts.

MA: Who will be taking the position of band director?
BK: We are still actively recruiting and interviewing candidates but we will find someone that is a great fit!

MA: What do you hope to see in the future of guitar, steel drums, and band class?
BK: My goal for all of my music students is to find a love of music that persists outside of these school walls. I hope that all of the music students will continue to have opportunities to express themselves and show the world how talented they are!

MA: What advice would you leave behind for your students?
BK: Music is a passion that exists in all of you. You’ll go through phases where you dedicate more or less time to that passion, but never let the flame burn out!