The Nation Ford High School community and the wider Fort Mill School District are deeply mourning the tragic loss of Andrew Krieger, an Assistant Director of Bands and a dedicated music educator who touched countless lives through his passion for music and education. Krieger, a Tega Cay resident, was found deceased over the weekend from a self-inflicted injury, according to local authorities who were called to the scene for a body report. Krieger’s passing has sent waves of shock and sadness throughout the community, and messages of condolence have poured in for his bereaved family.
Remembering Andrew Krieger: Educator, Musician, Mentor
Andrew Krieger served as the Associate Director of Bands at Nation Ford High School in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Known for his commitment to the arts and dedication to his students, Krieger was a native of Tega Cay and a beloved member of the community. With seven years of experience in the Fort Mill School District, Krieger began his career as Director of Bands at Springfield Middle School, where he developed a reputation as an inspiring and supportive educator.
In addition to his role at Nation Ford, he taught drums, woodwinds, and oboe privately, impacting students of all ages with his expertise and encouragement. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, he earned an undergraduate degree in music education and a certificate in oboe performance. Krieger’s talent extended beyond the classroom; he contributed to two full album recordings under the Naxos label during his time at university, one of which earned a Grammy nomination. He also performed with groups on concert tours across several countries, representing his passion and dedication to music at an international level. Most recently, he played locally with the Catawba River Winds, a group that remembered him as both a talented performer and a cherished colleague.
Tributes and Reflections from Friends, Colleagues, and Community Members
Andrew Krieger’s passing has left a profound void within his community and among those who knew him personally and professionally. Carl T. Hames, a longtime friend and fellow music educator, shared a heartfelt tribute: “I just heard the news about Andrew Krieger. I am devastated and heartbroken to the center of my soul. I have known this man since he was a freshman in the Fort Mill Band. He was my roommate for the 2017 Macy’s trip with The Nation Ford Band. I watched Andrew as a rising star in the high school and college band world. He went on to become an amazing young music educator. My heart goes out to all who knew and loved him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his beautiful wife and children, his parents Chris and Kathy, and his brother Matt. To Ray and the Nation Ford Band family, you are all in my thoughts during this difficult time.”
The Catawba River Winds, where Krieger played oboe and served as a director, also expressed their condolences, stating, “The Catawba River Winds express their deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and colleagues of Andrew Krieger. In addition to serving as one of our gracious host directors since our band’s inception, Andrew was an oboist in our ensemble and had a fierce passion for music-making and sharing his musical gift with others. He was a talented performer, a remarkable teacher, and an absolute joy to those who knew him. He will be dearly missed.”
Similarly, the LHS Cat Band shared a message of support for the Nation Ford Band and the community, reflecting on Krieger’s influence as a musician and mentor. The band noted, “The Cat Band is sending love and support to the Nation Ford High School band today after the unexpected passing of Assistant Band Director Andrew Krieger on Saturday. We will hold you in our thoughts and prayers. May you all be comforted by your friendship with each other and memories of his time with you. #BandisFamily.”
A Legacy of Dedication, Talent, and Compassion
Krieger’s musical accomplishments and dedication to his students have left a lasting impact. During his time at the University of South Carolina, Krieger participated in notable performances and recordings, helping his ensemble achieve recognition and earning admiration from peers and instructors alike. His work with students in Fort Mill extended beyond simple instruction; he instilled a love for music and fostered confidence, creativity, and discipline in his students. His legacy lives on in the music he helped create, the lives he touched, and the students he inspired.
Krieger’s family, including his wife, two young children, and extended family, is surrounded by an outpouring of support from those who knew and respected him. His parents, Chris and Kathy, and his brother, Matt, are joined by a network of friends, colleagues, and former students who continue to reflect on the positive influence he had on their lives.
Mental Health Awareness and Resources
In the wake of Andrew Krieger’s passing, the Fort Mill School District is offering resources and support to students, staff, and community members struggling with grief and mental health concerns. The tragic circumstances of Krieger’s death highlight the critical importance of mental health support within communities, particularly for those involved in high-stress fields like education.
Friends, family members, and community leaders are urging those affected to seek out support and to remain vigilant in prioritizing mental health. The community is rallying to provide counseling services for students and faculty at Nation Ford High School, Springfield Middle School, and other district institutions.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
Funeral arrangements for Andrew Krieger will be announced by his family in the coming days. As the community awaits further information, friends, family, and students are invited to remember Krieger’s life and legacy, honoring his contributions to the Fort Mill School District and the music community.
For now, his legacy as an educator, musician, and friend lives on through the students he mentored, the music he cherished, and the memories held by those who had the privilege to know him.
