Truly dedicating yourself to something with hard work, self discipline, conviction and passion enables the achievement of great things, both in music and life.

It is the philosophy Phil Burkhart has adapted in his 30 years of music teaching and led him to earn Austin Public Schools Teacher of the Year Award.

"He is an individual who lives music and is dedicated to it," Austin High School Principal Joe Brown said.

Burkhart, a La Crosse, Wis., native, has been teaching in Austin for 20 years.

He admits the award was a complete surprise for him. "When I got the call, I said, no, you're kidding?"

Candidates for the award are nominated by those in the community. The nominations then go to a committee. Based on the qualifications for the nomination, the list is then narrowed down.

"He was chosen for a variety of reasons; he worked diligently with the orchestras, has shown compassion for the students, and is dedicated, working countless hours with the students," said Bob Riege, the president of Austin Education Association.

As a child, Burkhart began by playing the trombone and later in college picked up strings. He attended the University of St. John's and the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and earned his masters at University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has begun working on his doctorate at the University of Minnesota.

"A recipient of the 1992 Orchestra Educator of the year by the state of String Teacher Association, Burkhart has led the Chamber Orchestra to win first rating (superior rating) every year for 19 years. The only year the orchestra did not win was when he took a year off.

"My wife has been the best adviser in musical matter," Burkhart said. In 2000, the fifth to 12th grade string program was named Exemplary Orchestra Program in Minnesota."

"He has really built the Austin orchestra," Brown said.

Burkhart teaches two orchestra classes at the AHS and an eighth-grade orchestra class at Ellis Middle School. Burkhart explained how a colleague had been asked what makes a great musical group. The colleague answered saying "great kids."

"He is right. This is why I have the best job in town. I get the best kids," Burkhart said.

In the 20 years in Austin, Burkhart said he has worked with many administrators, both in central administration and individual schools and to this day continues to be impressed by their support and dedication.

"It's always nice to have a teacher of the year at your school. When you think of a great teacher, Mr. Burkhart comes to mind," Brown said.

Burkhart was the conductor of Austin Symphony for six years, is a board member of the Minnesota String's and Orchestra Director's Association and conducts clinicals and workshops at festivals and summer camps around the state.

Austin is a very special place in many ways. Music has been a central part of both family and civic life here in Austin for many years, Burkhart said.

"We have a great town and great school system with fine teachers administrators and support staff. I have to acknowledge how much I appreciate all the support I have and the rest of the music staff has receive over the years. It has made all the difference," Burkhart said.

The teacher of the year for the school district moves on to participate at the state competition, having to create a portfolio including their philosophy of teaching and recommendations. From that point, the winner can go on to compete nationally.

"It's an honor to be chosen by your peers for such award. I wish I could share it with all the teachers in Austin. I should share this award with many people, my wife and two sons who have been the biggest supporters and my inspiration," Burkhart said.

Roxana Orellana can be reached at 434-2214

or by e-mail at roxana.orellana@austindailyherald.com