Band director receives recognition

Robert Grechesky’s said he credits his students for playing a large role in his successful career and recent awards and recognitions.

The Butler University Director of Bands  and Professor of music recently won two awards. He was selected as the Indiana Music Educators Association University Teacher of the Year, along with winning the James B. Calvert Lifetime Achievement in Music Award from the Indiana Wind Symphony.

The association’s selection process begins with  nominations, and Grechesky said he was honored and humbled when he read a few of the nomination letters sent in by his current students, former students and fellow colleagues.

“Grechesky cares about his students and sets a great example of work ethic, Angelo Anton, who is earning a master’s of music in instrumental conducting, said.

“He is a great conductor and musician, deserving of any and all accolades he receives,” Anton said.

Grechesky has been teaching at Butler for 38 years.

When Grechesky came to Butler in 1973, he began as the director of marching band and jazz ensemble, before leading concert band.

“I hope I have transmitted passion to my students, but having such good students has made it easier, and downright pleasant,” Grechesky said.

Grechesky is also a conductor, musician, scholar and researcher of music.

He has written for many different music outlets, including two of his own books on band repertoire.

Grechesky received the award from the association at the convention Jan. 21 and 22. He will receive the award from the Indiana Wind Symphony at their concert May 21 at the Carmel Palladium, where Grechesky will also conduct a performance of Aaron Copland’s prestigious piece, “Emblems.”

Grechesky says this is an honor he is looking forward to.

To be selected for the James B. Calvert Lifetime Achievement in Music Award, a nomination must be submitted to  a committee made up of Indiana teachers, conductors and musicians. Eventually, the wind symphony votes for a winner.

“[The Indiana Wind Symphony is recognizing Grechesky for] his long involvement with Butler University and the significant work he’s done there, and also his work with the Indianapolis Youth Wind Ensemble and the Indianapolis Brass Choir,” Charles Conrad, the wind symphony’s music director, said in a press release.

Grechesky said he has been blessed to have music in so many facets of his life.

“Once you do it,” he said, “you can’t get it out of your blood.”

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