First-Ever Father-Son Duo to Direct Competing Bands at Indiana State School Music Association Finals

A central Indiana music dynasty could make history this weekend at the Indiana State School Music Association State Concert Band Finals. Rick Granlund, a high school band director with over 30 years of experience, has been teaching for more than 21 years at North Central High School in Indianapolis.

Rick directed the band while all three of his kids were also in it, including his son Connor Granlund. Throughout his time as a teacher, Rick says every student and every teacher has become part of his family. Music is "just a great way to make a big school feel smaller."

Connor shows that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. He's now a high school band director in his first year teaching music at West Lafayette Junior/Senior High School. His mom, Candi, and wife, Avery, are middle school band directors. Meanwhile, his youngest sister, Laurel, is studying the bassoon.

Connor says playing for his dad alongside his friends was such a pivotal moment in his music career. "Getting to be part of that (band) program really (had)a massive impact on me. I definitely would not be sitting where I am today if it wasn't for all the people that I was with in that program."

The father and son duo are believed to be the first to direct bands that are competing against each other at the Indiana State School Music Association State Concert Band Finals.

“I think the best teachers take all the best things from their best teachers that they’ve had,” Connor said.

Rick adds, “I see his mom in him. There are times I see me in him.” He notes that Connor is a confident and talented person, but he also sees some North Central in him.

The cherry on top of it all? West Lafayette will perform right after North Central at the State Concert Band Finals on Saturday, playing at 5:10 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.