Tony Falcone, associate director of bands and director of the Cornhusker Marching Band in the Glenn Korff School of Music, received the Kappa Kappa Psi Distinguished Service to Music Medal at the Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma National Convention in Orlando in July.
The Distinguished Service to Music Medal is the highest award presented by the national honorary band fraternity. It was instituted in 1963 to honor outstanding individual contributions to bands.
“It’s very special to be so highly regarded by your colleagues, many of whom I’ve worked alongside for over 15 years and that I admire, look up to and emulate,” Falcone said.
Falcone served as the Midwest District Governor for 12 years for Kappa Kappa Psi, and he served on the National Council as Vice President for Professional Relations for the past four years. He has also served as chapter sponsor for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Epsilon Omega Chapter since 2002.
The UNL chapter was also honored as a Chapter Leadership Award winner and finalist for the Founder’s Trophy. They were one of 18 chapters out of more than 200 in the organization to be recognized in this way.
Carolyn Barber, the Ron and Carol Cope Professor of Music and Director of Bands in the Glenn Korff School of Music, said the award was a high honor for Falcone.
“I was so pleased that the fraternity recognized Tony’s dedication with this award. It’s a huge deal. This isn’t just a pat on the back—it is a celebration of his expertise, devotion to students, collegiality and professionalism at the highest level,” she said. “He has occupied many diverse roles within the organization and has exemplified servant leadership at every turn. He is a wonderful role model, not only for our students here in Nebraska, but nationwide. We are so fortunate that he chose to become, and remain, a Husker. I’m proud of him.”
In addition to directing the Cornhusker Marching Band, Falcone conducts the Symphonic Band, teaches instrumental arranging and assists with the administration of all university bands. He is also active in the percussion studio.
For more on Falcone, visit https://go.unl.edu/falcone.