As a new season for the Keith Stein Blue Thunder Marching Band is quickly approaching, I am filled with tremendous excitement and enthusiasm. Accordingly I hope you share the same passion and eagerness for the many experiences we will participate in over the coming years. In anticipation of the start of the season and our performances in August, it is my goal that we do our very best to show our support and spirit at each event in which we are present. High-energy performances both on and off campus will highlight the season as the band performs for tens of thousands of people. Blue Thunder’s audiences include current and former students, university faculty and staff, residents of the Treasure Valley, as well as members of the surrounding communities and states.
I look forward to your future involvement in the Boise State University Athletic Bands! GO BRONCOS!
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Joe Tornello is the Director of Athletic Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at Boise State University. His responsibilities comprise overseeing all athletic bands including the Keith Stein Blue Thunder Marching Band and all pep bands. Additional responsibilities include conducting the All Campus Concert Band and teaching Marching Band Techniques to future music educators.
Joe holds Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in Music Education from Virginia Tech and Jacksonville State University, respectively. After a successful career teaching secondary instrumental music in Stafford, Virginia, and many years as a percussion instructor with Spirit Drum and Bugle Corps, Joe continued his education at the University of Kentucky. In 2012 he completed his Doctorate in Wind Band Conducting while serving as the Interim Director of Athletic Bands at Boise State University.
Professor Tornello is a sought after adjudicator, clinician, conductor and drill designer nationwide. Joe currently resides in Boise with his wife Irene, their daughters Bella, Amelia, and Cecelia and their Bernese Mountain Dogs Biscotti and Cannoli.