In our second episode, host Dr. Michael Genslinger sits down with Brandi Kolbeck, who is the elementary music and secondary vocal teacher at Pender Public School in Pender Nebraska. Brandi is a veteran teacher who has served communities for 22 years throughout Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Nebraska. Her passion for music and teaching shine through both her commentary and her students.

The views and opinions expressed on Rural Music Matters are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Wayne State College or the Nebraska State College System.

© 2026 Mythical Motifs, LLC. All rights reserved.

Connect with Rural Music Matters:

🌐 mythicalmotifs.com/rmm

📘 Facebook: Rural Music Matters Podcast

📸 Instagram: @RuralMusicMattersPodcast

💰 Support the show: patreon.com/ruralmusicmatters

📧 rmm@mythicalmotifs.com

In our first episode, host Dr. Michael Genslinger sits down with Mike Sindt, band director at Pierce Public Schools in Pierce Nebraska. Mike has dedicated nearly 3 decades of service to the Pierce community. He is the current president of the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association and the 2025 recipient of the Nebraska Music Educator of the Year for band.

In this conversation we talk about:

• What 28 years at one rural school looks like
• The unique challenges and extraordinary rewards of rural band directing
• How the band program serves the Pierce community beyond the classroom
• Advocacy for rural music education at the state level
• What keeps a dedicated educator going

The views and opinions expressed on Rural Music Matters are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Wayne State College or the Nebraska State College System.

© 2026 Mythical Motifs, LLC. All rights reserved.

Connect with Rural Music Matters:

🌐 mythicalmotifs.com/rmm

📘 Facebook: Rural Music Matters Podcast

📸 Instagram: @RuralMusicMattersPodcast

💰 Support the show: patreon.com/ruralmusicmatters

📧 rmm@mythicalmotifs.com

This episode provides a brief description of what listeners can expect in season 1.