Rolf Olson

Dr. Rolf Olson is Director of Choral Activities at Freeman Academy and Music Director/Conductor of the Sioux Empire Brass. His extensive teaching experience includes Director of Bands at Northern State University (2016-2022), University of South Dakota (1990-2015), Augustana College (1989-90), and Arlington Public Schools (1984-88).

Dr. Olson is an active guest conductor having directed the Nebraska and South Dakota All State Bands, Dakota Wind Ensemble, and Northwest Iowa Honor Band. He served for many years as an adjudicator for the South Dakota All State Band auditions and numerous other music contests and festivals in the region. Olson is co-founder of the South Dakota All State Jazz Festival.

Dr. Olson is an active trumpet player as a member of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, the South Dakota Brass Quintet, and the Dalesburg Cornet Band, of which he is cornet soloist and musical director. He has performed twice at International Trumpet Guild Conventions and with the Carson & Barnes Circus Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Gene Pitney, and Myron Floren.

Awards include the South Dakota Outstanding Bandmaster of the Year Award and the Distinguished Service Award from the SDHSAA for the furtherance of high school activities while making significant contributions that have exemplified the highest ideals of service given to the Association and to the youth of South Dakota. He was recognized by the National Federation of State High School Associations as the Outstanding Music Educator for South Dakota, and was nominated for the national award.

Dr. Olson enjoys a busy life with his partner, Dr. Anne Waltner, a pianist and farmer, and their 8-year-old triplet girls, Greta, Lydia, and Alice.