Toby Staaden
Toby Staaden
Class Year
’28
Hometown
Portland, Oregon
Major(s)
Music, Music Education
Toby Staaden ’28, a double major in music education and music with an emphasis in instrumental performance, is deeply engaged in his studies and musical pursuits at Carthage. As a member of the Wind Orchestra, Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Philharmonic Orchestra, he has had many exciting opportunities, including traveling to Germany and Austria to perform. His passion and motivation for music continue to grow each year, and he looks forward to every performance, especially the annual Christmas Festival. He attributes these experiences to the support of the Presidential Scholarship. “Receiving the scholarship helps me with the academic side of school, so I can put more of my finances toward my instrument and other music necessities.”
When Toby isn’t performing, he’s exploring the local area. “I love being between Chicago and Milwaukee. It opens up the door to so many different things and activities,” he says. He especially enjoys the pier and museums in Kenosha and taking trips to the two major cities.
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Why Carthage?
“I knew a lot of people who already attended Carthage, and the College was close enough for me to remain near my family. Plus, it has an awesome . It’s perfect!”
Faculty mentors
“The faculty are always encouraging. I’ve never had a professor not answer a question or say no for an answer. It’s through them I’ve become the person/musician I am today. I wouldn’t be here without them!”
Favorite class
“I’ve taken instrumental technique classes in which I had to learn all the instruments. In order to teach a band, one has to know what makes up the band, so it was a lot. But not a moment went by when I wasn’t having fun!”
Unique opportunities
“Each ensemble in the Carthage Music Department goes on their own trip each respective year. One year, I went with the Philharmonic Orchestra on a two-week trip to Europe, where we learned about the musical history of Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna. We also had the opportunity to perform there as well!”
Internships or campus employment
“I am the current Wind Orchestra and Band librarian. It’s my job to assign music to people, organize our music files, keep our band room clean, and assist our band director, Professor James Ripley, in any way I can. I also work behind the scenes for the Office of Visual Performing Arts. It’s mainly a desk job, but I try to be involved with the arts as much as I can.”
Career goal
“My career goal is to teach high school band, as well as perform in a local symphony or privately teach. I just love playing my instrument and want to keep playing as much as I can after I graduate.”
Favorite spot on campus
“I always spend my time in the basement of the H. F. Johnson Center for the Fine Arts, by the instrumental lockers. It’s always quiet, near my friends in the Music Department, and close to a majority of my classes.”
Favorite memory
“My favorite memories include performing with each of the music groups for the first time, playing at the Christmas Festival, being a peer coach and seeing students grow and create bonds with each other, and meeting all my friends and girlfriend.”
Best study tip
“I always have a tough time getting started, but once I find something to focus on or a subject I need help with, it’s a lot easier to get going. Find somewhere comfortable, put on some music, and lock in.”