People with Purpose: Alex Wimmer

The most memorable lessons from band often have little to do with playing the right notes.

As K-State's director of bands, Alex Wimmer finds his purpose in helping students discover the confidence, discipline and sense of belonging that come from working together toward something bigger than themselves.

Q: What's a piece of advice you can uniquely give to students?

Wimmer: Anything of quality in life takes time, commitment, hard work and sacrifice. Work hard, do your best and invest in the process over worrying about the outcome.

Q: What's something "behind-the-scenes" that you do that you wish more people knew about?

Wimmer: I wish people could just experience firsthand what band members go through during game week! Between classes, rehearsals, our Pub Crawl Bands — which are on the same night as a home volleyball or basketball game — and hours before and after gameday, our students are simply awesome. They are my heroes!

Q: What is your leadership style, and how does that contribute to your success in your role?

Wimmer: I hope that others would describe my leadership style as a pursuit of excellence through high expectations, hard work, discipline, ownership, accountability and investing in the human being. I am not going to ask anyone to do something that I have not already done or am willing to do with them. I also hope others see a servant’s heart in my energy, enthusiasm and effort for the good of the team.

Q: What motivates you on challenging days?

Wimmer: I believe my purpose on Earth is to serve others by being a band director. This is my calling, and I take great pride, responsibility and ownership in every aspect of this service to others. Whether it is for students, colleagues, the community or my family, my work as a band director helps them succeed in life. I do not want to let anyone down and go to great lengths to ensure I am doing whatever I can to be of service to them.

Q: What is a time when a student interaction stayed with you long after the day ended?

Wimmer: There have been thousands of memories, and all are connected by how being in the band brings people together. I believe that music is the only thing that brings people together for nothing but a positive outcome.

Regardless of your experience, ability or beliefs, being in band makes us “leave our baggage at the door” to work together for the greater good and something bigger than ourselves. Every day I get to see human beings live this through their actions. I am humbled, thankful and inspired to be part of a group of people who believe in the power of band!

Q: What advice would you give to students who are interested in your field?

Wimmer: Being a band director is the best job ever; I have never felt that I have worked a single day in my life! You get the opportunity to give to others what others have given to you by being in band, and there is nothing on Earth like it.

It is hard, it takes time, it's demanding and it requires a lot of work, but it is all worth it to see the pride and passion in everyone’s eyes after a great rehearsal or performance or to be around others who care and value what they do.

Follow your heart, commit and do not give up, and enjoy every moment of the journey!