ROBERT (BOB) STORMS, lives in Ferndale, Washington with his wife, Marit Aldrich. His seven children are all grown and live western Washington as well. For forty years, Bob had been a music teacher in the public schools working at the middle school level teaching band, jazz band, chorus and elementary music. He was elected Music Teacher of the Year in 2000 for the San Juan District of the Washington State MENC (Music Education National Conference) by his peers and was subsequently admitted to the NWBA, (Northwest Bandmasters Association) an organization with an elite membership of outstanding music teachers in the northwest.
Bob is the winner of three composition contests, author of twelve books of songs (1200 songs in copyright, currently), and numerous pieces for concert band, orchestra, choir and small instrumental ensembles.
Publication
School Stories: The Funny Thing About Music (2nd Edition)
What do you get when you mix middle school band students, wild parade mishaps, and unpredictable classroom chaos? A hilarious, heartwarming dive into the world of music education!
In “School Stories: The Funny Thing About Music”, retired educator Robert Storms delivers a cozy, folksy memoir featuring snapshots from his forty-year career as a public school band and choir director in Ferndale, Washington.
Structured as a series of short, funny anecdotes, these stories capture the messy and deeply rewarding reality of working with young musicians. From unexpected concert disruptions and April Fools’ Day pranks to inspiring moments spent making music accessible for every child, Storms proves that laughter is the ultimate teaching tool.
Accessible, uplifting, and brimming with nostalgic warmth, this delightful story collection is a must-read for teachers, former “band kids,” and anyone who appreciates a good laugh.
Overall, School Stories is a comforting, personality-driven memoir that successfully illustrates the enduring impact of a dedicated teacher.
