WE ARE PIUS: Mike Murphy, former band director

00:00: Introduction to We Are Pius podcast and guest Mike Murphy

01:00: Early stories, career beginnings, and influence of Sister Amada

03:00: Discovering music, teaching first jobs, and meeting Karen

04:00: Marriage, starting at Pius in 1985, and campus changes over the years

06:00: Marching band practices, gravel lots, muddy shoes, and striping the football field

08:00: Transition to field turf and subbing for marching band again

09:00: Evolution of Pius band programs, jazz band growth, and collaboration with colleagues

13:00: Milestones in the band program and Karen joining Pius in 1987

15:00: First superior rating at state contest and student celebrations

17:00: New uniforms, concert band pride, and music as prayer

19:00: The arts in Catholic education and the spiritual power of music

23:00: Experiencing transcendent moments through Mozart’s Requiem

27:00: Memorable pieces performed at Pius and students’ emotional connections

29:00: Partnership with Karen and their “Mr. and Mrs. Murphy” legacy

33:00: Karen’s school assignments and balancing Pius with grade school bands

34:00: Karen’s sudden passing and Mike’s visits to her students

37:00: Family life, raising two sons through the Pius band program

40:00: Remembering Phil Murphy, band program founder, and transition to Jared Wilhelm

42:00: Lightning round — favorite saint, Bible verses, and family prayers

47:00: Personal heroes, lessons from parents, and resilience through faith

49:00: Final reflections — running, recovery, and message of hope