By Michael D. Clark
The Cincinnati Enquirer

LEBANON - After growing up in this city, graduating from Lebanon schools and then teaching music in the school system for 35 years Lee Wiederhold's career opus will soon be coming to an end. On Saturday the veteran band director will retire from the only school district he has ever known, both as a student and educator.

He has one regret: "I'm going to miss my kids."

Wiederhold, 56, was hired as a music teacher in 1968 after graduating from the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music. He estimated that in 35 years he has instructed more than 20,000 Lebanon youngsters.

"I've taught a lot of people about instrumental music. It's helped keep me young, and I've had wonderful colleagues," he said.

Wiederhold said returning to his native city to work his entire career has allowed him a front row seat for Lebanon's growth.

The population spurt has in many ways forever changed the once-rural county seat, he said.

"We've gone from being a very small, farm community. Everybody knew everybody when I was young. But now the many new people who have come here have brought diversity to our community, and that is great," he said.

Tom Olson, principal at Berry Middle School, was taught by Wiederhold to play the trombone before he graduated with the Lebanon High School Class of 1976. Now Olson is his former teacher's boss, but this switch has only solidified the principal's appreciation for Wiederhold's talents and his longevity.

"As time goes on, it'll be rare to see another educator with his history in the district," said Olson. "Lee loves kids and he loves introducing them to music and band."

Wiederhold's work with and for youths will continue. He's president of the board of trustees for the Lebanon Public Library.

"I've been involved with 4H programs for years and plan to keep my hands in that," he said.

E-mail mclark@enquirer.com