Nyline announces retirement

After 38 years at Luther College, band conductor Professor Fredrick Nyline has announced his retirement, a decision that has stirred feelings of sorrow with understanding in the Luther community.

“My initial reaction was a mixture of shock and sadness,” band student Bianca Najera (‘13) said. “In the end, it’s going to be difficult to see him leave, but at the same time I respect and understand his decision to retire.”

Band member Sydnie Reynolds (‘12) agreed.

“I am very sad to see him leave, but I know that he is doing what is best for himself at this time,” Reynolds said.

Though students are sad to see Nyline leave, they also are thankful for the director’s long and dedicated career at Luther.

“He has given the best years of his professional life to Luther College and our department of music,” Professor of Music Daniel Baldwin said. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the blessings of retirement.”

Nyline has enriched the Luther community with music throughout his career.

“He’s opened up Asia to the Luther band,” retired Professor of Music Weston Noble said. “It’s a great expansion of the influence of the Luther band.”

Nyline has made a big impact at home as well abroad.

“He really has an interest in the lives of the students he’s in front of,” Professor of Music Timothy Peter said. “He’s a wonderful role model to all of us; he cares deeply about all those players in the band.”

Assistant Professor of Music Richard Tirk agreed.

“His passion for teaching and his love of interaction with the students [is inspirational],” Tirk said.

This passion has continued even through Nyline’s ongoing struggle with shingles.

“There was something about being in Japan, and being with a group of young adult musicians, that really gave him a spark to keep going even though he was really uncomfortable,” Tirk said.

With such a strong sense of commitment, it’s hard for Professor Nyline to have a negative attitude.

“Fred is a preternatural optimist—I’m sure I’ve never known anybody with a more positive outlook,” Baldwin said.

Peter agreed.

“He’s such a genuine personality. The warmth of personality and the genuine spirit [create that personality],” Peter said.

Many people appreciate Professor Nyline’s personality, but there is one part in particular that Nyline himself wishes students, staff and faculty to remember:

“My smile,” said Nyline.

What he personally wants to take away from his career are his favorite moments:

“[My favorite moments were] ‘73, ‘74, ‘75, ... every year, ” Nyline said.

Each year created new and special memories for Nyline, and he has come to love it here at Luther.

“This is my favorite place in the world,” Nyline said.

There is also something he wants Luther to remember.

“Never forget who you are,” Nyline said. “That doesn’t mean individually. That means Luther. We’re Luther.”