Anthony Krempa

Bitter Jester Music Festival Judge

Anthony Krempa is the Associate Director of Orchestras at Stevenson High School (and, thus, a colleague of Bitter Jester’s Director of Education, Michael Tseitlin). There, Anthony directs the Pit Orchestra for the school's musical.

He has taught orchestra, band, choir and general music for many school systems in Michigan and Illinois throughout his 20+ year career. Anthony’s other conducting posts include years working with the Detroit Symphony Civic Ensembles, the Oakland Youth Orchestras, Northwest Symphony Orchestra, and is currently with the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra's Philharmonia.

He received a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, and has Masters work in Music Education and Conducting from Vandercook College and Wayne State.

As a performer he serves as principal second violin with the Chicago Lakeview Orchestra, section player with the Chicago Composer's Orchestra, as well as an active chamber musician throughout the Chicagoland area.

Anthony is an active guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator for groups all across the Midwest, including serving as a regular judge for the IGSMA Solo & Ensemble Contests, Band & Orchestra Contests, and the National Heritage Music Festivals.

2020’s virtual Original Song Competition was his first time serving as a clinician for the Bitter Jester Music Festival and he had a blast returning to live competitions last year. Tony is thrilled to be back in person yet again to experience the diversity and creativity that will be on display at Bitter Jester!