About Wayzata Musicales  & 

Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund

Woody Budnick was the driving force behind the beginnings of the music programs in the Wayzata Public Schools.  Before he left for World War II, he first started a choir and then a band. After returning from the war, he continued to guide and lead these programs with great success. Woody was greatly beloved and admired by his students, and inspired them to make the most of their talents. He was a fine musician, and his bands were outstanding. He taught in the Wayzata Schools for over 30 years and had a profound impact on thousands of students. In his later years at Wayzata, he also formed other non-traditional music classes for high school students to enjoy. The Electronic Music program at Wayzata High School today is a direct outcome of his efforts to make music available to all high school students. Woody retired in 1980 but continued to make music until he passed in 1998.

Chip Williams began working in the Wayzata Schools Band Program in 1978. He got to know Woody during those early years when their careers overlapped. Also known for his love of students and music, Chip led the band program through terrific growth during the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. He was the driving force behind establishing a band private lesson program utilizing highly qualified staff, which continues to this day. Chip served as the Music Department Chair for many years and was instrumental in designing the music department and auditorium for the new high school that opened in 1997. Under his leadership, the Wayzata High School Music Department was named a “Grammy School of Excellence.” Continuing with Woody’s work in the Electronic Music program, it was recognized by the State of Minnesota and the National Department of Education as a “Program of Excellence.” The Wayzata Wind Ensemble was twice selected to perform at the Minnesota Music Educators Midwinter Clinic. More importantly to him, however, was the personal rapport and camaraderie he shared with his students. He retired in 2010 but continues to live in the area, conducts, and enjoys travel and music.

It should also be said that both Woody and Chip were recognized as outstanding band directors by their peers and music organizations throughout the State of Minnesota. Their influence continues to this day as many of their former students are still enjoying, performing, and teaching music themselves.

When Chip retired in 2010, Dennis Burgess and the scholarship committee deemed it appropriate to rename the scholarship as the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Scholarship to recognize the contributions of both these dedicated teachers and musicians. The fund now also offers additional financial support to the Wayzata Public Schools band program.

Click the button below if you would like to donate to the Woody Budnick-Chip Williams Fund.