MY WHY - Jeremy Budrow, Instrumental Music Teacher at Holmes

When Jeremy Budrow steps onto the podium, it’s more than just music that fills the room; it’s confidence, curiosity and connection. Budrow, one of three instrumental music teachers at Holmes Middle School (and one of two band directors), has been shaping the district’s young musicians for more than two decades.

Budrow earned his bachelor’s in music education from Northern Illinois University in 2001 and a master’s in, you guessed it, music education from the Vandercook College of Music in Chicago in 2008. He began teaching in 2001 at Dundee Middle School in Algonquin-based Community Unit School District 300, spent two years at Carpentersville Middle School, and then joined District 21 in 2004.

Over the years, his responsibilities have evolved along with the program. Budrow currently directs the highest-level wind group and jazz band while also mentoring sixth graders and running small-group lessons for individual instruments.

“A day could include one rehearsal with the older kids, one rehearsal with sixth graders, and the rest of the day is small group lessons,” he said. “At the beginning of the year, we focus on fundamentals; later, it’s fine-tuning for the next concert.”

But for Budrow, music education extends far beyond technique. He emphasizes building confidence in every student. While the program offers each student the chance to perform a solo, he realizes it may not be everyone’s “cup of tea.” “The idea of putting a kid in front of the band and asking them to improvise is intimidating,” he explained. “We give everyone the opportunity, and those who are interested, we help them grow.”

Budrow credits his own middle school and high school band directors, Dave Thomas at MacArthur Middle School (yep, he’s a hometown boy) and Brian Logan at Wheeling High School, for inspiring his career.

“They showed me that a teacher could be both supportive and challenging, and that snowballed into why I’m a band director,” he said. Initially, Budrow had aspired to be a professional jazz musician, but teaching offered a way to share his love of music while maintaining a stable livelihood. He continues to play music and has found a balance between teaching and performing. 

Budrow’s connection to District 21 runs deep. Though he attended a different middle school, he had friends in the district and, once he graduated from college, was encouraged by Logan to apply to the very opening he now works in. “It was a great fit with a robust program, great facilities, and a solid district,” he said.

Outside of the band room, Budrow plays music in a small jazz combo, enjoys video games both alone, with friends, and with his five-year-old – Hades 2 was the most recent obsession – and takes weekend trips with his wife and child. He also practices yoga and juggling, continually seeking new ways to challenge himself.

For Budrow, teaching music isn’t just a job; it’s a way to inspire and empower students. “Every student has something unique to offer,” Budrow said. “If I can help them discover that through music, then I’ve done my job.”