Name: Holly Prier Lloyd
Major at ISU: Bachelor of Music in Music Education
Graduation Year: 2015
Hometown: Ryan, IA
Current Residence: Clear Lake, IA
What were you involved in during your time at ISU:
I took part in the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Campus Band, Flute Ensemble, ISUCF'V'MB, and Pep Band.
What do you currently do for a living:
I am the Director of High School and 6th Grade Bands for the Clear Lake Community School District.
Can you share a particularly interesting or inspiring story that occurred in your career?
In the fall of 2020, my marching band needed an interesting show idea. We decided to do "The Day the Music Died" and play the music of Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, and "American Pie" by Don McLean as a unique tribute to the history of our town. After securing the custom arrangements and planning the show, I learned that Paramount was creating a documentary on the 50th anniversary of "American Pie". The documentary film crew came to our final football game - it was an experience I'll never forget!
Are there other ways that you participate in your community and/or hot to engage as a Citizen Artist?
I have a private flute studio and teach lessons to area flute students, as well as leading the North Iowa Flute Ensemble, which meets at the end of the school year. I serve as the Jazz Affairs chair for the North Central Iowa Bandmasters Association. In the summer I am a musician and conductor for the Clear Lake Municipal Band, as well as managing the North Iowa Middle School Band Camp - a one-week camp that includes student musicians and teachers from all over North Iowa! Finally, I occasionally play piano for St. Patrick's Church in Clear Lake.
How did your time at ISU prepare you for your career?
Iowa State was so influential in preparing me for a career as an educator. I had wonderful professors, and excellent opportunities for musicianship and leadership, and always felt valued as a student. ISU was the correct place for me to study at that time of my life.
What was your favorite class while you were at ISU? Why?
My favorite classes other than ensembles were Dr. Sturm's music history courses. I felt like I learned the most from these classes and was challenged to learn and remember the information!
How was your involvement in music and theatre beneficial in different parts of your life?
My involvement in music has gifted me with the ability to meet many unique types of people; I've been fortunate to make so many different friends through music.
Any words of wisdom for current or prospective students?
Spend less time on your phone and you can always drink more water. Also after college, if you move away from your close friends, do not be afraid to ask new people to spend time with you! Having friends where you live is so important.