STAPLES, Minn. (KWAD) — A local music legend will soon be honored with one of the highest recognitions in the Staples-Motley community. Longtime choir director Stan Carlson has been named the first-ever inductee into the Staples-Motley High School Artistic Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades of musical excellence, education, and deep-rooted community impact.
The official induction ceremony will take place August 17 at 2 p.m. at Centennial Auditorium in Staples, with a reception to follow. The public is encouraged to attend. An alumni choir, open to former students, will rehearse at noon and perform at the ceremony in Carlson’s honor.
Carlson began his teaching career in 1965, ultimately serving 35 years as choir director at Staples-Motley High School before retiring in 1999. His influence on the school’s fine arts program remains immeasurable, setting a gold standard for music education in the region.
Former student and longtime SMHS choir director Steve Hoemberg says Carlson was more than a teacher—he was a mentor who instilled discipline, passion, and purpose. “Stan taught us how to be successful in life,” Hoemberg said. “He was always prepared, always focused. His goal was simple—to make us better, and he never stopped working to get us there.”
Among Carlson’s many innovations was the launch of the Madrigal Dinners in 1975—an elaborate dinner-theater production combining period costumes, choral music, and theatrical performance. Inspired by Bemidji State University’s choral leader Paul Brandvik, Carlson built the Madrigal Dinners from a modest chamber choir event into a full-scale tradition involving hundreds of students across the school’s music programs. The tradition continued for decades and remains one of the most beloved staples of SMHS fine arts.
He also directed a long list of school musicals, often managing all aspects of production himself—including choreography, casting, rehearsal, and marketing. Notable productions included South Pacific, The Sound of Music, and Guys and Dolls. In the early days, Carlson handled every detail, often without the support of additional directors. Later, the roles were divided among staff, but his influence remained central.
“He didn’t care where you came from,” said Hoemberg. “Athletes, kids from all walks of life—everyone had a place in his classroom. He believed in discipline and high standards, but he also believed everyone deserved to experience the joy of making music.”
Beyond the classroom, Carlson helped reestablish the Staples Area Men’s Chorus in 1971—a community group that has now been active for over 55 seasons. Initially approached by locals with a request to revive the chorus, Carlson agreed to help for “a year.” True to form, he gave it everything he had—and never looked back. Under his leadership, the Men’s Chorus became a regional mainstay and performed across Minnesota.
Carlson’s approach to teaching resembled that of a skilled tradesman—building fundamental skills, nurturing growth, and expecting excellence. That mindset helped shape the careers of countless students, including Hoemberg himself, now Dean of Skilled Trades at St. Cloud Technical & Community College. “I don’t see the trades any differently than I see music,” Hoemberg said. “That’s Stan’s fault. He taught us to break things down, understand them, and build something beautiful together.”
Even after retirement, Carlson returned to the classroom in 2001 to ensure continuity in the program before Hoemberg finished a semester of student teaching and took over for the second semester. “He didn’t come back to preserve his legacy,” said Hoemberg. “He came back for the students—and to help me. That’s just who he is.”
From contest scores that rarely dipped below superior, to national recognition and lifelong mentorship, Carlson’s legacy is built on more than accolades. It’s about how he taught: with integrity, preparation, humility, and heart.
Now, as the inaugural inductee of the Staples-Motley High School Artistic Hall of Fame, the community will formally recognize what generations have long known—Stan Carlson didn’t just teach music. He built a movement.
For more information, follow the Staples-Motley Artistic Hall of Fame on Facebook.