Capital High School band director Casey Lindorfer knew he wanted to instruct music since junior high. But he never imagined receiving his dream job just months after graduating from college.

“The moment I conducted music for the first time — I knew it was for me,” Lindorfer said. “It was an experience I will never forget.”

As a young boy at Boise’s Roosevelt Elementary School, Lindorfer picked up the trombone and piano. He honed his skills and played the trombone in the marching bands at Boise High School and Boise State University.

“I was fortunate my parents started me on music at a young age, it gave me a head start,” Lindorfer said.

While studying music at Boise State, he volunteer at Capital assisting the marching band. He then student taught at Capital, setting up a dream-come-true opportunity.

“I had plans to go to graduate school and then the (Capital) band director at the time decided to retire,” Lindorfer said.

He has taught at Capital for three years and teaches band at Horizon Elementary School. He was recently named by School Band and Orchestra, an industry trade publication, as one of 50 instrumental music directors across the country who “make a difference.”

Cara Wade, a three-year band student, nominated Lindorfer.

“He’s the best band director I’ve ever had,” said Wade. “He really connects with students and I believe it’s because he’s younger than your average director.”

Lindorfer didn’t realize he was making a difference so early in his career.

“I was surprised,” Lindorfer said. “I push kids to be the best they can be at everything they do in life. I try to give students a space that can get them away from other troubles and problems in life.”

Aside from the marching band, he leads the school’s concert band, jazz band and percussion ensemble — nearly 145 students in all. He also teaches music theory, music appreciation and color guard.

“He has so much passion for music and works tirelessly,” said Sandy Winters, the principal at Capital High School. “He is a model for the students and really uses hands-on experiences in the classroom.”

Capital High School is regularly among the best in the state in marching band competitions and performances. Last year, the jazz and concert bands got a “superior” rating at festival and the jazz band took first place at the Clackamas Jazz Festival.

Beyond the classroom, Lindorfer plays the trombone in the Treasure Valley Concert Band.

“I love music,” Lindorfer said. “Three years in teaching, I’m still new and have a lot to learn.”