The Growing Band Director

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Our mission is to share practical advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. To gain access to all show notes and audio

Kyle Smith


    • May 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 49m AVG DURATION
    • 286 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Growing Band Director

    270 Fix Right Hand Position

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 25:04


    Geoffrey Richards is the inventor of Thumb Gummi - an innovative product that helps trumpet, trombone and clarinet students with their right hand position. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    266 Strive For Balance - Trusting the Right Career Path for You in Your Career with Cathy Benford

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 49:06


    Every band director has a slightly different career story - and being a head director - though very important - is not the end all and be all. Cathy Benford from Round Rock ISD joins the show to give advice for following the path that is right for you as your career progresses.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (132) Developing Your Ensemble's Sound Throwback with Rachel Maxwell

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2025 83:37


    A step by step, fundamentals based approach to making your band sound amazing! With 31 years of proven experience, Rachel Maxwell (Traughber MS, Oswego, Ill.) shares her approach that has helped countless teachers improve their ensemble's sound. Now brought directly to you! ⁠Developing Your Ensemble's Sound Slide Deck⁠ To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    265 Composer Spotlight with William Owens

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 54:18


    William Owens is one of the most prolific composers in the world for school bands. He has a knack for writing accessible music for students at any experience level. He is also one of the busiest guest conductors. He joins the show to share his wisdom for band directors and other composers - and we also listen to some of his music!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    263 Beginners, Curriculum, Repertoire and Dissonance with Matt Neufeld

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 60:57


    Educator and Composer Matt Neufeld joins the show to discuss topics in the band classroom, as well as five of his great works for younger bands!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (125) Teaching Band in a Small School Throwback with Lonnie Wescott

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2025 53:11


    There are positives, negatives and everything in between when you teach in a small school! Hear about some of the secrets to a sustained career and quality band program in a small school setting from a veteran teacher with tons of insight to share! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    262 Better By Sight with Tyler Arcari

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 56:54


    Tyler Arcari joins the show to discuss ways to help your students improve at sight reading!Better By SightThe Complete Warm Up for BandThe Adaptable Ensemble SeriesTo gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    261 Jazz Education and Charts with Mike Tomaro

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 71:21


    Mike Tomaro is one of the leading jazz educators and composer/arrangers in the world - and he joins the show to share his insight on all things jazz education! We also listen to 7 of his amazing charts!Rhythm Sheet for Jazz ImprovisationTo gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (123) Teaching Tone Throwback with Tyler S. Grant

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 64:32


    Meet one of the most popular composers, hear his story, and study 5 of his selected works with him! ⁠Teaching Tone Playlist⁠ ⁠Tyler's Website⁠ Tylersgrant.com To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    260 Beyond Artless Crossover from The Midwest Clinic

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 17:18


    During Midwest 2024 Kyle had a chance to sit down with Chris and Peter from the Beyond Artless Podcast. Enjoy their conversation!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    249 Small Band, Big Sound with Chris DeVona

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 40:37


    Learn ways to help your small band sound their best, with Chris DeVona from James Madison University. "Small Band - Big Sound" is available from GIA PublicationsTo gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (116) Teaching Music With Passion, Purpose and Promise Throwback with Dr. Peter Boonshaft

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2025 59:58


    Peter Boonshaft is a mainstay and inspirational figure in the field of music education, with a wide ranging conducting history around the world, as well as the author of a very popular series of books for band directors- ⁠"Teaching Music With Passion"⁠ ⁠"Teaching Music with Purpose"⁠ ⁠"Teaching Music With Promise"⁠ To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    259 Culture Before Content Crossover with David Duarte

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 56:03


    In January 2025 Kyle was a guest with the Music for All Podcast Network show - "Culture Before Content" with David Duarte. Check out the conversation!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    248 Tips for Growing Your Program with Joshua Williams

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 30:26


    Fresh off his February 2025 FMEA presentation "Tips for Growing Your Program" Joshua Williams joins the show to help us learn ways to improve student recruitment and retention.Practice With Mr Williams You Tube ChannelTo gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (108) Experienced Teachers Can Grow Throwback with Tom Lizotte

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2025 76:51


    In a wide ranging discussion around mentorship, buzzing, whistling, solfege, connection, empowering students and much more, we unlock the most important of all - you need to continue to learn throughout your life. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    256 Gr 1-3 Jazz Festival Rep with Julius Tolentino Part 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 42:39


    Selection of repertoire for your jazz band is essential for a successful festival season. In this 3 part series hear 27 charts for grades 1-3 that work tremendously.Each chart is discussed and an audio sample is provided, as well as background and teaching tips for each chart.Each episode includes:3 charts as a Grade 1 set3 charts as a Grade 2 set3 charts as a Grade 3 setTo gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of⁠ thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:⁠Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠⁠On Youtube The Growing Band Director⁠ ⁠Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group⁠⁠Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector⁠⁠Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector⁠If you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    247 Design for Impact with Key Poulan

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 58:59


    A well designed marching band show is the vehicle every student deserves - yet is one of the hardest tasks a band director undertakes - and are usually underprepared to accomplish! Veteran show designer and music educator Key Poulan joins the show to help teach methods of show design to maximize student achievment.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (103) Getting to the Music Faster with Strong Fundamentals Throwback with Laurie Zentz

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2025 59:33


    Learn from a seasoned educator about her approach to teaching beginning band, and how it helps with engagement, knowledge and achievement! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    255 Festival Repertoire for Concert Band Part Three with Melissa Shabo

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 44:50


    Join Kyle and Melissa Shabo (Cape Elizabeth Middle School) for a journey through three sets of Grade 1-3 Festival music that are worthy of your contest set in the future! Each program is segmented into 3 pieces at each grade level that would work as a stand alone concert set!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of⁠ thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:⁠Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠⁠On Youtube The Growing Band Director⁠ ⁠Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group⁠⁠Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector⁠⁠Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector⁠If you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    246 Field Show Design with Brian Joyce and Mark Waymire

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 57:47


    How do you make the important choices for your marching band that will set them up for success during the season? Do you compete in competitions? Do you perform at football games? Do you buy a stock show, or custom design one for yourself? What are your tools and what type of show is right for your students right now?These are all questions that band directors ask themselves each year. Brian Joyce from South Jones HS, MS, and Mark Waymire, veteran educator, show designer and judge join the show to shed some light on ways to help set up your students for success.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (107) Creating a Jazz Culture at Beloit HS, and Essentially Ellington Throwback with Chris Behrens

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2025 57:30


    As the band director at one of the top HS jazz programs in the country (Beloit HS-Wisconsin), Chris Behrens shares many aspects of building this culture in YOUR school - including a score study session on two Duke Ellington charts, as well as participating in the Essentially Ellington Festival and all the other aspects that go into their top notch jazz program.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    258 Why You Should Program Transcriptions Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 31:58


    There are so many pieces of music written for piano or orchestra that have been transcribed for wind band. In this episode we discuss the reasoning for programming transcriptions with your students. We also provide score and sound listening examples of pieces that work well for wind band. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    245 Using Folk Songs in Band Repertoire with Gene Milford

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 50:31


    The use of folk songs in the band classrooms is very important to help them learn history! Gene Milford is one of the finest composers of our time uses folk songs all the time, and he joined the show to discuss many of his works for band!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (102) Planning your Students Year Throwback with Tiffany Hitz

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2025 59:35


    Through Curriculum Mapping, the use of Companion Guides, and a thorough approach to programming, learn the techniques used by a Master Teacher - Tiffany Hitz from Fairfax County, VA. Tips for Mentoring Companion Guide Example (Tiffany Hitz) Example Curriculum Map (Tiffany Hitz) Songs in 6/8 Part 1 (Kyle Smith) Songs in 6/8 Part 2 (Kyle Smith) To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    254 Gr 1-3 Jazz Festival Rep with Julius Tolentino Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 48:18


    Selection of repertoire for your jazz band is essential for a successful festival season. In this 3 part series hear 27 charts for grades 1-3 that work tremendously. Each chart is discussed and an audio sample is provided, as well as background and teaching tips for each chart. Each episode includes: 3 charts as a Grade 1 set 3 charts as a Grade 2 set 3 charts as a Grade 3 set To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of⁠ thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠ Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: ⁠Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠ ⁠On Youtube The Growing Band Director⁠  ⁠Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group⁠ ⁠Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector⁠ ⁠Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector⁠ If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    244 Replacing a Legendary Teacher with Patrick Towey

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 41:57


    Starting a new job as a band director is not an easy task. There are many decisions in the short and long term that need to be calculated. No matter how experienced you are, you will make mistakes. Patrick Towey joins the show to help us navigate some solutions and avoid some pitfalls along the way.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of https://thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasPodcast Website https://Thegrowingbanddirector.comYoutube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg8yE0tT7HXVQW6vAyKXlSw Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/1197885914386437/?ref=shareInstagram https://www.instagram.com/thegrowingbanddirector/Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (87) Advanced Rehearsal Techniques for Wind Band and Jazz Band Throwback with Jeff Leonard

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 97:37


    Hear from one of New England's most legendary band directors. Jeff Leonard spent 35 years in the Lexington Schools as K-12 Coordinator and Band Director. Now teaching at BU and Berklee, hear some of the ways to improve as a teacher in both the classical and jazz realm. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    253 Festival Repertoire for Concert Band Part Two with Melissa Shabo

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 37:44


    Join Kyle and Melissa Shabo (Cape Elizabeth Middle School) for a journey through three sets of Grade 1-3 Festival music that are worthy of your contest set in the future! Each program is segmented into 3 pieces at each grade level that would work as a stand alone concert set!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of⁠ thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:⁠Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com⁠⁠On Youtube The Growing Band Director⁠ ⁠Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group⁠⁠Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector⁠⁠Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector⁠If you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    242 What is on the Page is a Lie with Penelope Smetters-Jacono and Paul Corn

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 54:59


    Penelope Smetters-Jacono and Paul Corn are New York band directors who have grown their programs to a level that they have been accepted to Essentially Ellington 2025, and they join the show live from Jazz at Lincoln Center.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (82) Building Confidence in Rhythm Section Students Throwback with Mike Kamuf

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 83:45


    From his Alfred clinic "Start Your Engines: Building Confidence with Less Experienced Rhythm Section Players" Mike Kamuf shares amazing information to help your young Rhythm Section thrive! This is also a chance to listen to some great music by one of America's top writers. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    257 Why You Should Program Transcriptions Part One

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 39:32


    There are so many pieces of music written for piano or orchestra that have been transcribed for wind band. In this episode we discuss the reasoning for programming transcriptions with your students. We also provide score and sound listening examples of pieces that work well for wind band. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    241 How Playing in a Big Band Prepares Students for Life with Tatum Greenblatt and Julius Tolentino

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2025 52:09


    Tatum Greenblatt is one of New York City's most in-demand trumpet players. Among many other roles, Tatum teaches at the Julliard School, and runs the Jazz at Lincoln Center Youth Orchestra. He joins the show to discuss how the traits students learn while playing in a big band can prepare them for being successful members of society.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    (76) Rhythm Section and Jazz Articulation Throwback with Dick Dunscomb

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 57:47


    The two biggest areas of growth for most jazz band directors lie in the rhythm section and articulation for the jazz band. Legend Dick Dunscomb joins the show to help! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    252 Gr 1-3 Jazz Festival Rep with Julius Tolentino Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 46:39


    Selection of repertoire for your jazz band is essential for a successful festival season. In this 3 part series hear 27 charts for grades 1-3 that work tremendously. Each chart is discussed and an audio sample is provided, as well as background and teaching tips for each chart. Each episode includes: 3 charts as a Grade 1 set 3 charts as a Grade 2 set 3 charts as a Grade 3 set To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    240 Music Administration with Philip Walters and Nathan Coronado

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 59:22


    What are the most enjoyable parts of being a music administrator? What are the greatest challenges? What are administrators looking for in quality teachers and how do they help teachers who are struggling? If someone is looking to become a music administrator, what steps can they take along that path? Enjoy this conversation between Philip Walters and Nathan Coronado from by far the largest state in the United States! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    (68) Classroom Management for the Modern Middle School Band Throwback with Dr. Robert Grogan

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 66:44


    Supreme practice advice for band directors! In between Dr. Grogan's presentations at conventions in Georgia and Utah, he made time to bring his methods and materials to us to share with you. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    251 Festival Repertoire for Concert Band Part One with Melissa Shabo

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 42:58


    Join Kyle and Melissa Shabo (Cape Elizabeth Middle School) for a journey through three sets of Grade 1-3 Festival music that are worthy of your contest set in the future! Each program is segmented into 3 pieces at each grade level that would work as a stand alone concert set!To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.comOur mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.Connect with us with comments or ideasFollow the show:Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.comOn Youtube The Growing Band Director Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast GroupInstagram @thegrowingbanddirectorTik Tok @thegrowingbanddirectorIf you like what you hear please:Leave a Five Star Review and Share us with another band director!

    237 Improvisation in the Big Band Setting and HS Jazz Repertoire with Mike Sakash

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 55:32


    MIke Sakash joins the show to give ways to work on improvisation with your students in the full jazz band rehearsal, and discusses some amazing repertoire you might want to play with your HS jazz ensemble. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    (66) Preventing Hearing Loss for Band Directors Throwback with Dr. Doug Owens

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2025 57:07


    Dr. Doug Owens joins the show to share the research, problems, and solutions around music induced hearing loss for band directors. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    239 Band Music with Audio Tracks with Benjamin Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 62:42


    Dr Benjamin Taylor is a composer and has tons of great music for bands of all levels. In this episode we talk composition, band music with audio tracks, exercise routines for band directors, and much more! Teaching Music Creatively : A Practical Guide for Music Director. Get 50% off with code "Creative50" To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    238 Achieving Sonority with Alex Kaminsky

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 49:54


    Alex Kaminsky is the Director of Bands at Vandercook College of Music, and and experienced high school band director from Florida. He joins the podcast to share tips to help your band achieve sonority! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    (62) Creative Ways to Improve Your Band Throwback with Jeff Priest

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2025 66:58


    Learn some creative ways to improve your band with legendary band director, Jeff Priest! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

    236 The Secret to Improved Woodwind Tone and Jazz Pedagogy with Aaron Henry

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 40:56


    Learn how to grow the tone of your woodwind section, and hear some ideas to help your improvisers too! Aaron Henry is the Director of Instrumental Music at Yarmouth High School, ME and Artist Faculty in Jazz Saxophone at The Osher School of Music at the University of Southern Maine. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreon - using the button at the top of thegrowingbanddirector.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years. Connect with us with comments or ideas Follow the show: Podcast website : Thegrowingbanddirector.com On Youtube The Growing Band Director  Facebook-The Growing Band Director Podcast Group Instagram @thegrowingbanddirector Tik Tok @thegrowingbanddirector If you like what you hear please: Leave a Five Star Review and  Share us with another band director!

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