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Musicians of Rochester serves as a portrait of musical life in and around the greater Rochester, New York region.

Musicians of Rochester: Casey Springstead

Brook Nance

Meet Casey Springstead: he's the longtime wind ensemble director at Irondequoit High School, the Music Director for the Hochstein Youth Symphony Orchestra and, because his schedule isn't full enough already, a French hornist in the Penfield Symphony Orchestra. In September of 2017, he was given the Faculty Service Award at the Hochstein School of Music and Dance. When presenting the award to Casey, Hochstein President Margaret Quackenbush called him, "an incredibly thoughtful, dedicated, inspiring musician and educator, giving all the students who've had the good fortune to play under his baton the finest musical leadership I can imagine." Casey spent time with Julia Figueras, and talked about that award, his path to the band room, and which Rochester conductor he's shamelessly stolen inspiration from.

A Strong Memorial baby and Greece Arcadia grad, Julia Figueras was the Music Director and mid-day host for WXXI Classical until June 30, 2023 when she retired after more than 26 years of service. She also hosted the award-winning monthly interview/performance show, Backstage Pass.