Peterson to lead Waseca band department

New Waseca band director Anders Peterson says teaching is something he decided on back in the eighth grade: “During a career research unit, I just so happened to be the only one of my friends who did not research being a band director. Oddly enough, I am the only one who followed through,” he says. 

Originally from Dassel, Minnesota, Peterson graduated from  Luther College in spring (2024) with a BA in Music Education and will be moving to Faribault. He says he is excited to begin his teaching career here in Waseca and will do his best to keep the Waseca band legacy alive. “My involvement with differing marching arts has informed me of the reputation the Waseca band program holds here in Minnesota. Specifically, being a member of River City Rhythm for 8 years means that I’ve spent many hours rehearsing at Waseca School’s facilities and getting to know high school director Devon Lawrence very well. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to become a part of a program and be able to work with a colleague I know well.”

Peterson believes his favorite part of teaching will be seeing the students’ pride and excitement in their  achievements, which he says are “always a joy and a motivator to keep teaching. When students really take ownership in their education and pursue the subject simply because of their enjoyment, that’s when real learning happens. It is one of the most fulfilling experiences both as a student and a teacher.”

The one thing this music students will leave his  classroom with? “I’m not expecting every student to become the next biggest star, but I’m hoping they can all understand the music they hear playing over the radio and appreciate the process it took to make it,” Peterson says.