Two highly-qualified and talented musicians co- direct both the Town Band and the Centennial Brass Choir.

Jane Oppenlander

Jane Oppenlander was born in Lafayette, Indiana and grew up outside of Burlington, Vermont. Currently, she’s a scientist at Lockheed Martin and an adjunct professor at Union Graduate College.

Education

Jane has earned four degrees including a BA (Math), a BS (Music & Education), and an MS (Statistics) from the University of Vermont, as well as a PhD in Statistics from Union College. 

Other Experience

In addition to co-directing the Colonie Town Band and Colonie Centennial Brass Choir, she plays clarinet, saxophone, and percussion and is a member of the Guilderland Town Band. Her experience also includes choir director at the Community Lutheran Church in South Burlington, VT and performing in the Burlington, VT City Band and Union College Orchestra. 

Accomplishments

Included in Jane’s many accomplishments is her composition “Universitas V. Montis,” the tune for the alma mater of the University of Vermont, winner of the university’s bicentennial songwriting competition. She’s also written “Ticonderoga,” a march for band performed by the Guilderland Town Band and the University of Vermont Concert Band.

Joe Trupia

Charles J. Trupia started music lessons on saxophone at age 8, began clarinet lessons at age 9, and had his first professional experience playing saxophone in a quartet (sax, piano, bass and drums) two nights a week at the “Forty and Eight Club” in Syracuse from 9 pm to 1 am. He was 12 years old!

Education

Joe has earned four degrees including a Bachelor of Music/ Music Education and an MS in Music/Music Education from Syracuse University; and an MS in Education and an EdD from SUNY Albany.

Other Experience

Joe played in the United States Marine Corps Band at San Diego during the Korean War. In addition, from 1944 to 1967 he played in several concert and dance bands in the Syracuse area including the house show bands at “Three Rivers Inn” and “Andy’s Inn” where he played behind many big name performers

He was an instrumental music teacher for 10 years (1957-1967). At the New York State Department of Education, he was the Director of the Division of Arts and Science, an Associate in Music Education, and Chief of the Bureau of Music Education. He also served as Executive Director of the New York Summer Schools.

Accomplishments

In addition to co-directing the Colonie Town Band, Joe is also the Conductor of the Albany Area Senior Orchestra. He also performs in several dance bands as well as the Memorial Concert Band of Colonie..