The Aquarena Springs Symphonic Band is conducted by Michael L. Thielen.

Michael L. Thielen began his musical pursuits more than fifty years ago as a percussionist in Houston, Texas. While still in high school he performed with Rice University Symphonic Band. Michael continued percussion studies at the University of Texas, then transferred to Southwest Texas State University. After Earning a Bachelor’s in Music Education from SWTSU (Texas State University), he spent more than twenty years successfully teaching band and percussion throughout central Texas.

In addition to teaching, Michael has performed as a timpanist with the Austin Symphonic Band and the Comal Community Band. He has been a guest conductor with the Austin Symphonic Band, has served as the Musical Director/Conductor with Comal Community Band, and he has performed with several Sousa Band reenactments.

Michael continues to teach privately, and is called on as a clinician and adjudicator. During the 90’s he was deeply involved with the revamping of UIL Sight Reading procedures for high school concert bands.
He performs with the Waterloo Wind Band and the Hill Country Community Band. He has been a member of the Texas Music Adjudicators Association, and is active in the Texas Bandmasters Association and the Texas Music Educators Association.

In November, 2020, Michael organized and formed the Aquarena Springs Symphonic Band in San Marcos, Texas.

In his spare time Michael enjoys hunting and fishing. He is a licensed and ordained minister, and he serves as interim worship leader for First Lockhart Baptist Church. He lives near San Marcos, with his wife, Mary Beth, and their daughter.