KCU associate professor composes music inspired by human anatomy

Tony Olinger, PhD, an associate professor of anatomy at Kansas City University (KCU), is a remarkable example of the diverse talents within KCU’s academic community. By day, he delves into the intricacies of human anatomy; by night, he transforms into a composer, creating melodies that resonate with the soul.

A quick online search of Olinger's name reveals his Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube accounts, where he generously shares his compositions. Some pieces are inspired by human anatomy, while others stem from his ever-evolving interests. In his own words, "I've got these melodies in my head, so it seemed like it was my obligation to get them out for others to hear."

His unique approach to music composition involves meticulous manual input of every instrumental component on software such as Cakewalk, Cakewalk Piano Roll View, and Virtual Musical Instruments. This precision mirrors the dedication he brings to his teaching. He seamlessly blends his love for anatomy into his compositions, resulting in tracks like "Osteology," "Pulmonology," and "Arthrology." Many students find his music intriguing, some even using it to enhance their study experiences.

Olinger emphasized, "It's an incredible feeling to know that students enjoy my music and find it beneficial for their studies." His unwavering commitment to both anatomy and creative expression underscores his zeal for educating future physicians and embodies the spirit of learning, creativity, and the pursuit of one's passions.