A CCS Story: Sarah Kremer – A Paddler’s Symphony
SPRING 2026 CCS NEWSLETTER
We’re thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of CCS teacher and alum Sarah Kremer, who debuted her first symphony this March! Sarah attended Saints Peter Paul and Michael (now All Saints Academy) and graduated from Cathedral in 2012. She now teaches 4th and 5th grade band in CCS elementary schools and 6–12 Orchestra at Cathedral. Sarah exemplifies the love of learning, commitment to one’s passions, and desire to give back that CCS hopes to foster in every student.
Sarah’s original work, A Paddler’s Symphony, premiered with the Buffalo Community Orchestra on March 1, 2026. The 30-minute symphony draws inspiration from Sarah’s lifelong connection to nature and her formative wilderness canoe expeditions, beginning with Les Voyageurs at age 16. These experiences—navigating rivers, braving the elements, and sharing the journey with others—shaped her path as a musician and educator, and the symphony reflects both the challenges and joys of those adventures.
The symphony unfolds in four movements, each capturing a distinct experience:
I. A Cool Night – The stillness of a northern bog at night, with drifting frog choruses and the haunting calls of wolves.
II. The Backcast – The effort and perseverance of long canoe journeys, ultimately finding growth and beauty in remote northern lakes and rivers.
III. Lake of the Woods – A tribute to the lake Sarah has guided youth on for years, bringing horizons, sunsets, camp songs, and paddling rhythms to life.
IV. Let the Moose Run – A celebration of fully embracing life, with mandolin, guitar, and banjo joining the orchestra.
Douglas Wood, Minnesota author of Paddle Whispers and wilderness guide, provided narration for movements I, II, and IV, while Sarah wrote the introduction for the third. Her saxophone mentor from Concordia College performed a featured part, adding personal mentorship and musical tradition to the work. Even the Buffalo Community Orchestra performing the symphony holds special meaning, as Sarah has played with them for many years.
Reflecting on teaching, Sarah says, “I am so incredibly grateful to be able to teach in the schools that shaped me as a child and teenager.” She also credits teachers from her days as a Cathedral student for shaping her journey: “Mrs. Chopp (band teacher) and Mr. Karn (former AP Lit teacher) helped build a foundational understanding of discipline, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking—all skills I use daily as a teacher and musician.”
Today, she brings that same guidance to her students: “Much like writing a symphony, teaching leaves lasting impressions. Every note, lesson, and encouragement shapes their journey, helping them make their own music and write their own story.”
A recording of the full performance is available here: A Paddler’s Symphony – YouTube
