Woodbury Middle School Welcomes Guest Musician

Eighth-grade band students from Woodbury Middle School (WMS) recently had a unique opportunity to learn from and perform alongside a professional musician thanks to a music education grant from the St. Croix Valley Foundation. The grant brought acclaimed trumpet player Dr. Amy Schendel to the school, where she worked directly with students and joined them as a featured soloist during the school’s eighth-grade band, choir and orchestra concert on Monday, May 11.

For students, the experience was a chance to see firsthand how music education can open doors, build confidence and inspire future possibilities.

“It was really cool to see where Dr. Schendel is and where I could be,” said eighth-grader PJ Hinton.

Dr. Schendel serves as adjunct instructor of trumpet at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul, and performs professionally throughout the Twin Cities metro area as a freelance trumpet player and teacher. During her visit to WMS, students had the opportunity to learn directly from a professional musician who has dedicated her life to the arts. 

“Dr. Schendel was so nice and she plays so clearly,” says eighth-grader Lydia Giles. “She kept us on tempo and was really inspirational.”

Through rehearsals, instruction, and performance preparation, students gained valuable insight into musicianship, perseverance, and the discipline required to succeed in music. For many students, seeing a professional performer up close makes their own goals feel more attainable and reinforces that their hard work and practice matter.

“Our band really worked hard to improve to support her solo,” says eighth-grader Claire Nestingen. “She has really cool skills and she taught us a lot.”

“Music education gives students a place to grow creatively, work together and build confidence both in and out of the classroom,” says WMS Band Director Sara O’Connor.

Thank you to Dr. Schendel and the St. Croix Valley Foundation for this amazing opportunity.