A Special Award of
The John Philip Sousa Foundation
Amanda Kaus has been the director of bands at Rochester Century High School for the past 14 years. Before joining the staff at Century High School, she was director of bands at Kellogg Middle School and Willow Creek Middle School. She received her Bachelor of Music degree from St. Olaf College and her Master of Arts in Music Education degree from the University of St. Thomas.
Kaus served as the first active educator as the At Large Representative for Sections 5 & 8 of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). She also served the Minnesota State High School League Board of Directors as MMEA Representative,
Minnesota Music Educators Association Band Vice-President, and Minnesota Band Directors Association SouthEast Region President.
Her Century High School ensembles have performed at the Minnesota Music Educators Association Midwinter Convention, University of Northern Iowa Wind Band Invitational, and the Big 9 Music Festival. Additionally, her groups have attended the Minnesota State High School League Solo and Small Ensemble Contests, consistently receiving Superior Ratings of Ensembles and Solos, including multiple Best in Site performances.
- The Bandworld Legion of Honor was established in 1989 to honor, over the course of a year, eight of the finest band directors in our business.
- Recipients have taught for at least fifteen years, have maintained a very high-quality concert band program, and have contributed significantly to the profession through dedication to bands and band music.
- Each is honored at the annual Sousa Foundation awards ceremony during the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago, Illinois.
- Chairman of the Legion of Honor Committee is Terry Austin, Virginia Commonwealth University.
When asked what factors do you consider most important in shaping your career, Amanda states, “Over the past 23 years, my career has been shaped by the students I have been fortunate to work with in every setting. I believe that each student deserves the opportunity to learn and flourish in our shared space, as well as find satisfaction through their efforts. I am energized and fueled through our shared work and continually strive to raise the level of leadership I bring to each ensemble. The challenge of continually adapting and growing as a musician and educator is one of the greatest joys and drives I have each day.
I also have been fortunate to serve in several organizations and I value the colleagues I have connected with in the process. Not only have I had the opportunity to watch incredible educators work with ensembles, but I have also had the opportunity to work with those in other areas of education that have helped broaden my views of various educational roles while recognizing how similar we continue to be.”
Her professional philosophy statement is, “I believe that music and music education are powerful tools in creating community and a sense of belonging for students. From fostering teamwork and a sense of camaraderie, to challenging each individual in their growth and development as a musician, to providing an opportunity for self-expression, music education has a truly special place in the lives of students and in our schools. I strive to help students find a sense of enjoyment and accomplishment through creating music with their peers as our success comes from our collective efforts and a willingness to work together.
I also believe it is important to invest in each student and help them to recognize the value of their voice and contributions to our society. As students develop a sense of pride in being a member of an ensemble, they become even more invested in contributing and raising the level of performance. Music allows individuals to connect on a deeper level through the shared process of rehearsal and performance.”
