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Co-band director Allen Schmidt's motto at Lakota Plains Junior School is to "always play with a good tone."

Whether it's in music or in life, Schmidt said he encourages students to aim for excellence.

"I try to relate what I know to young people so they have a love for it," he said. "That's part of the fun — watching them get better and mature not only as musicians but as young people — young adults."

Schmidt, who specialized in brass, will retire this year after nine years at Lakota.

"I love it here," he said. "I really do. It's just time to move on."

Schmidt said he plans to do some traveling and relaxing for a while. Although he will miss his role as the "Voice of the Marching Firebirds," he said his announcing days also are finished. His dream was to go to the Rose Parade, and this year he achieved it.

"That's why I got into the business," he said.

That, and to become a role model to children like his junior high band director was for him, Schmidt said.

"He's just a pleasant guy," said co-director Phillip Chumley, who said he admires "his spirit and joy of telling the kids stories about music."

Seventh-grader Hannah Donley, 13, said Schmidt pushes her to succeed.

"He really makes you do better than what you think you can do," she said. "He tries to make sure he gets everything perfect for us, so we do well in our concerts."

Seventh-grader Julie Street, 14, said Schmidt focuses on the individuals in the band, especially fine-tuning the brass sections.

"Everybody's going to miss him," she said.

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5067 or lhilty@coxohio.com.

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