 Jim Seidel has been directing this historic band since 1980. |
| Noteworthy
Facts About the Director |
Education:
Mansfield (Pa.)
University - B.S. Music Ed. - 1973
Studied trumpet with Bertram Francis
Studied conducting with Donald Stanley
West Chester (Pa.) University
- M.S. in Music - 1977
Studied trumpet with Dr. Ken Laudermilch |
Employment:
Music educator -
Exeter School District, Reading, Pa. since 1973
Currently chairperson of Music Dept.
Worked with brass ensemble -
Music in the Schools Program |
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Jim
Seidel launched his musical career at age 8 when he began studying the trumpet with Walter
Gier, of Exeter, Pa. in 1960. Seidel
credits Gier's strong teaching ability and musical guidance for leading him toward a
career in music. And for introducing him to the band that would become an influential
force in his musical career.
It all began innocently enough In 1967,
when Seidel accepted an invitation from Gier - who also happened to be the Ringgold Band
director - to attend a rehearsal. Before long, Seidel was hooked, staying active with
the organization despite being away at college through most of the 1970s.
Seidel served variously as featured
soloist, president and assistant director of the Ringgold Band. Then in 1980 Gier retired
as director and passed the baton to him. "My years with Ringgold have been
enriching and rewarding - and never dull," Seidel says.
Beyond his obvious Ringgold Band ties,
Seidel has also been a featured soloist with the Pottstown Band and performed with the
Reading Symphony Orchestra, Berks Chamber Orchestra, Reading Civic Opera Society Orchestra, and
other Reading-area groups.
Seidel continues to freelance in the Berks County area. He also has served as an
adjudicator for jazz band, marching band and concert band festivals throughout the region.
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