Podcasts about midwest band

SHOW NOTES Episode 042 • December 9, 2024     FIRST STRAIN   News ‘n' Notes:   • Band winners in the American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts   theamericanprize.org/ theamericanprize.blogspot.com/2024/11/national-winners-bandswind-ensembles.html   • New conductor for Harbor Winds Ensemble   www.gigharbornow.org/news/arts-entertainment/harbor-winds-new-conductor/     SECOND STRAIN   Topic: Merry Maple     TRIO   This week's interview guest: GREG SMITH   NVCB: www.NashobaValleyConcertBand.org Townsend Senior Center: www.townsendma.gov/community/senior_center/index.php     DOGFIGHT   Topic: The marching bands of the 98th Annual Macy*s Thanksgiving Day Parade   www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wpXAG-ao2Y     CODA   Call to action: have you got any Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic stories you wanna tell?       FOLLOW US!   BandWagon RSS feed: feed.podbean.com/heyband/feed.xml BandWagon website: heyband.podbean.com BandWagon on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555170345309 BandWagon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhammerton1 Rob ("HammertonMedia") on Facebook: facebook.com/HammertonMedia Rob on X/Twitter: twitter.com/DrRob8487   SUBSCRIBE TO BANDWAGON!   https://www.podbean.com/site/podcatcher/index/blog/eg706GUVzixV   WE GOT MERCH!   Visit www.teepublic.com/user/bandwagon-with-rob-hammerton -or- got to teepublic.com and search “bandwagon”   SEND US YOUR FEEDBACK!   Email: heybandwagon@yahoo.com Voicemail: speakpipe.com/HeyBandWagon

brassmastery.com/bergmanWhen I first approached Jason Bergman about appearing on the Brass Mastery™ podcast, the first thing I asked him was, "What do you want to talk about?"It's always best to play to the strengths of your guests when one is doing a creative endeavor such as this.Jason replied he'd like to delve into the realm of self-care as it pertains to teaching brass instrumentalists.As professor of trumpet at the prestigious Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, Jason has learned a thing or two on this topic (or one would assume), so I agreed to discuss this on the show, eager to hear what he has to say on the topic.The thing we ended up talking about the most is how shame affects our self-perception as musicians, hindering our musical output and progression - to the point some even get discouraged and leave music as a serious pursuit altogether.What is the root cause of this shame and deleterious effects it has on us? Jason opens up on some of his own setbacks as a performer and teacher, and shares some of the innovative teaching techniques he employs at IU to confront the many barriers we put up that inhibit our progress as musicians and play to the best of our ability. Episode highlights:-Brief rundown of Jason's academic career...03:00-Giving credit to impactful figures who don't seek the spotlight...05:15-One seemingly insignificant thing we say today may make a massive impact in the future...07:45-Jason's founding origins on trumpet and music...11:20-The students became the mentor...17:35-Self-awareness, and the need to care for one's self in order to best help those charged to our care...22:50-An examination of shame and how it affects our mindset and overall wellbeing as musicians...29:00-We get ourselves tied up in knots when we're thinking about the notes vs. the musical product...36:00-When you're "okay with being unokay" the mistakes magically dissipate...38:40-"A rising tide lifts all ships" i.e. when one succeeds, all succeed...41:40-Meat therapy, and how Jason decompresses during down time...46:10Resources mentioned:Brene Brown videosAbout the Guest:American trumpeter Jason Bergman was appointed Associate Professor of Music in Trumpet at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in 2022. He has performed throughout the United States, South America, Europe, and China. In 2008, Bergman was named Associate Principal Trumpet of the Santiago Philharmonic in Chile and more recently has been Principal Trumpet of the Mobile Symphony Orchestra and Mobile Opera. He has also performed with the Utah Symphony, Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Dallas Opera, Fort Worth Symphony, and the Dallas Winds, including on their Grammy-nominated album featuring the music of John Williams. Additionally, Bergman has performed in concert with the Canadian Brass, Rhythm & Brass and with conductor David Robertson at Carnegie Hall as part of the Weill Music Institute. He also performed as a fellow at the Music Academy of the West. Bergman has given recitals and master classes at numerous institutions worldwide and has performed and presented at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, College Music Society, International Tuba and Euphonium Conference, Mississippi Bandmasters Association, Mississippi Music Teachers Association, Utah Music Educators Conference, International Trumpet Guild, and the Texas Music Educators Association Annual Convention. As a soloist, he has performed with the Royal Belgian Air Force Band, Garland Symphony Orchestra, Timpanogos Symphony, and the Beijing Central Conservatory of Music Wind Ensemble

It's time to discover, learn, and play jazz piano with Mike Steinel!Mike Steinel is a jazz trumpeter, pianist, composer, arranger and novelist. An internationally recognized jazz educator, Mike is the author the highly acclaimed Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble and Building a Jazz Vocabulary. He has performed throughout the US, Canada and in Europe, Africa and Asia. He has, appeared as soloist at the MENC, IAJE, and JEN international conventions; and at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. He has recorded with the Rosewood Trio, the Frank Mantooth Orchestra, the Chicago Jazz Quintet and is a featured soloist on recent release by the Mike Waldrop Big Band (2015). He has performed with Ella Fitzgerald, Clark Terry, Don Ellis, Bill Evans, Zoot Sims, Jerry Bergonzi, and others. His most recent releases are Song and Dance on Origin Records (2018) and Saving Charlie Parker on Rosewood Audio (2022)Mike served as Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of North Texas from 1987 to 2019. He founded and directed the UNT Jazz Combo Workshop for 25 years. Mr. Steinel has served as Co-Chair of the Jazz Advisory Panel for the National Endowment for the Arts. He holds a BME degree from Emporia State University and a MME degree from the University of North Texas.Websites:www.mikesteinel.comwww.savingcharlieparker.com Bookstore:http://www.mikesteinel.com/page-4/ YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@bobfan1127Now, enjoy my interview with Mike Steinel.Warm Regards,Dr. Bob LawrenceJazz Piano SkillsSupport the show

In this podcast, I talk with Dr. Wes Parker at NCSU. Dr. Parker is the Director of Jazz Studies at NCSU and led the Jazz Orchestra to a performance at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Show in Chicago. The Jazz Orchestra is only the fourth band from NC to ever play that conference, and the only collegiate ensemble to play there. In this heart warming interview, we talk about music at a school without a music major. We also talk about he built the jazz program and resources for jazz. I hope you enjoy.

Dr. Rebecca MacLeod is Professor of Music Education at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she directs the string education program and conducts the UNCG Sinfonia. She is the author of Teaching Strings in Today's Classroom and is published in Journal of Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, Bulletin for the Council of Research in Music Education, Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, Journal of Music Teacher Education, String Research Journal, Psychology of Music, The Strad, American String Teachers Journal, and various state music education journals. She has served on the editorial boards of the Journal of Research in Music Education, the String Research Journal, and as guest reviewer for the International Journal of Research in Music Education. She is the recipient of the UNCG School of Music, Theatre and Dance Outstanding Teaching Award, the American String Teacher Association National Researcher Award, and the UNCG Junior Research Excellence Award. A passionate advocate for increasing access to string education to all students, Dr. MacLeod directs two community partnership programs that provide string instruction to underserved students: the Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program and the Peck Alumni Leadership Program. Students of these programs have performed for Dr. Maya Angelou, Dr. Gloria Ladsen-Billings, and the Sphinx Virtuosi. Her research on working with underserved populations, vibrato technique, music teacher education, and music perception has been presented at the International Conference of Music Perception and Cognition (Thessoloniki, Greece), Music Research and Human Behavior International Conference (Barcelona, Spain), International Society for Music Education (Glasgow, Scotland), Music Educators National Conference, National Association for Music Education National Conference, American String Teachers National Conference, Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Society for Music Teacher Education, and music educators state conferences. Prior to joining the UNCG faculty, she taught elementary, middle, and high school orchestra in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania and was orchestra director and chair of music activities in Beaver, Pennsylvania. She was the assistant artistic director and conductor of the Tallahassee Symphony Youth Chamber Orchestra and Philharmonia Orchestra in Tallahassee, Florida. She has served on the American String Teachers Association National Board and is past president of the North Carolina ASTA chapter. She was a guest lecturer at Xi'an University and Shaoguan University (China) in summer 2016 and 2017. Dr. MacLeod received her undergraduate degree from Duquesne University and her MME and PhD from Florida State University. She is a frequent guest conductor and clinician throughout the United States and abroad. https://teachingstrings.online https://vpa.uncg.edu/home/directory/bio-rebeccamacleod/ ------- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support

Katie O'Hara LaBrie is a composer, conductor, clinician, and cellist from Northern Virginia and is the new Orchestra Editor for Randall Standridge Music Publications. An educator at heart, Mrs. LaBrie spent the first 15 years of her career teaching orchestra in Fairfax County, Virginia. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from St. Olaf College, where she studied under Steven Amundson, and Masters of Music in Instrumental Conducting from George Mason University, where she studied with Anthony Maiello. As a composer, Mrs. LaBrie's inspiration grows from many sources such as family and nature, but primarily draws from her experiences as a music educator. She enjoys creating new music with the goal of being educationally sound, pleasing to audiences, and above all, fun for the players. She is passionate about sharing music with others and teaching students how to practice with purpose. Mrs. LaBrie's compositions for string orchestra and concert band have received many accolades including frequent selection as J.W. Pepper Editor's Choice, as well as performances at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic and American String Teachers Association Conference. In 2022, she was honored as one of Yamaha's “40 Under 40,” for her action, courage, creativity, and commitment to growth in the music education field. Mrs. LaBrie is the founding conductor of the Fairfax Chamber Players, and co-creator of “the Big IDEA” practice method. She lives in Fairfax, VA with her husband Joe, who is a middle school band director, and their budding musician, Liam. Links: https://www.katieoharalabrie.comhttps://practicewithpurpose.net -- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262 — Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information. ——— Please donate to Charles' charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.  AFSP creates a culture that's smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission You can learn more about Charles' fundraisers and donate here: https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support

David explains why Ron DeSantis is a raging bully looking to fight anyone. Now Disney sues DeSantis, DeSantis sues Disney-- it's The Magic Kingdom versus King Dumb. Guest: Professor Mike Steinel, author of "Saving Charlie Parker: A Novel." Mike Steinel is a jazz trumpeter, pianist, composer and arranger. An internationally recognized jazz educator, Mike is the author the highly acclaimed Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble and Building a Jazz Vocabulary. He has performed throughout the US, Canada and in Europe, Africa and Asia. He has, appeared as soloist at the MENC, IAJE, and JEN international conventions; and at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. He has recorded with the Rosewood Trio, the Frank Mantooth Orchestra, the Chicago Jazz Quintet and is a featured soloist on recent release by the Mike Waldrop Big Band (2015). He has performed with Ella Fitzgerald, Clark Terry, Don Ellis, Bill Evans, Zoot Sims, Jerry Bergonzi, and others. His most recent release is Song and Dance on Origin Records (2018). Chapters: 00:00 David does The News 07:21 Professor Mike Steinel 28:26 "Talk Is Cheap" written and performed by Professor Mike Steinel 35:10 "Tuckered Out" written and performed by Professor Mike Steinel SUBSCRIBE TO DAVID'S NEWSLETTER: https://davidfeldman.substack.com Take David wherever you go by subscribing to this show as a podcast! Here's how: https://davidfeldmanshow.com/how-to-l... And Subscribe to this channel. SUPPORT INDEPENDENT MEDIA: https://www.paypal.com/biz/fund?id=PD... More David @ http://www.DavidFeldmanShow.com

Synopsis: This was my second year at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. A good time was had by all! Find out what I experienced, who I met, and my thoughts on it all. #midwestclinic Find Lori's sheet music at: Sheet Music Plus (affiliate link), JW Pepper, and Sheet Music Direct Support Tonal Diversions when you shop at Amazon Or make a donation via PayPal Transcript Photo album Proclamation Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Joseph Sowa Michael Paul Mitchell Empowering Female Conductors panelists Conducting, Composing, and Performing With Disabilities: An Accessible, Inclusive, and Empathic Vision for Neurodiverse Music When Conductor and Composer Are One Why Audiences Clap: Creating Exciting and Memorable Performances Through Creativity, Connection, and Communication Bud Beyer's “Completing the Circle” (Amazon link) Brass Band of Huntsville French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts John Mackey Julian Bliss Baylor University Wind Ensemble Bands of the Air National Guard Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com

It was a real treat speaking with Dr. Joanna Hersey, Associate Dean of Student Success and Curriculum, for the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. 2:24 Hats that Dr. Hersey Wears 4:08 U.S. Coast Guard Band 6:45 Midwest Band and Orchestra Conference 10:45 Work Life Balance 12:20 Peak Performance 13:38 Value of a Morning Routine 17:15 The Art of Practicing 18:20 Not Fitting Expectation 19:35 Goalsetting and New Year's Resolutions 24:10 Vegan Diet 28:15 Love of History 30:48 Inspirational Teachers 31:50 Finding Your Purpose 32:50 Contact Info - How to Follow Dr. Hersey

This episode is a mobile podcast in the form of a car conversation with my friend and partner in crime, Mr. David Eccles. We candidly discuss a variety of topics as we travel from Atlanta to Greenville, SC to conduct their SCMEA Region 2 orchestras. Hope you will enjoy! About our guest... David F. Eccles is a native of Norfolk, Virginia. He currently serves as Orchestra Program and Upper School Orchestra Director at The Lovett School in Atlanta, Georgia. For over a decade, he was the Director of String Music Education and Orchestral Activities at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. He has held string education positions in Georgia, Virginia, and Florida. An active clinician, adjudicator, conductor, and cellist, Eccles has served as music director and principal conductor for numerous youth orchestras. He has also served as a guest conductor for many state, county, regional, and community orchestras. Mr. Eccles has presented education sessions at several local, state, and international conferences, including The Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic & Conference, American String Teachers Association Conference, Texas, Ohio, Illinois, New Jersey, and Florida Music Educators Conferences. Mr. Eccles is a clinician and consulting author for the Hal Leonard Corporation. Additionally, he is a featured string educator in the book, Rehearsing the High School Orchestra. He holds advanced degrees in Music Education from Florida State University and University of Miami (Florida) and a Bachelor of Music and Media from Norfolk State University. His principal teachers include Elizabeth Eccles, Laurien Laufman, Ross Harbaugh, and Dr. Michael Allen. David is a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association, National Association for Music Education, Phi Mu Alpha, Phi Kappa Lambda, and the Georgia Chapter of American String Teachers Association. He also serves on the national board of the American String Teachers Association. -- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262 --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support

I went on an adventure to the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. A good time was had by all! Find out what I experienced, who I met, and my thoughts on it all. #midwestclinic Transcript Photo album Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com Knock on Wood Clarinet Choir Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Who I saw: John Mackey Michael Lowenstern: Website | YouTube channel Joseph Sowa Garrett Hope | Ultimate Music Business Summit (Jan 6-8, 2022) Jessica Harrie | International Clarinet Association Matt Johnston Johan de Meij John Mackey's “& Friends”: Minoo Dixon Henry Dorn Jeremi Edwards Jordan Jinosko Gabrielle Liriano Allison Loggins-Hull Lauren Spavelko

I took a big leap! Find out what I did—and what I'll be doing next with my music. Covering topics from my early and lifelong love of music to my upcoming adventure at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. Links: Transcript Tonal Diversions Website podcast@tonaldiversions.com Blog posts from Tonal Diversions: Musical Ability and the Perspective of Being a Late Bloomer From Fearing Writer's Block to the Excitement of Premieres Lori's 7th grade contest solo

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Episode 28 (LIVE) with David Eccles, 8/29/2021, 12:00 PM EST David F. Eccles is a native of Norfolk, Virginia and currently serves as Director of String Music Education and Orchestral Activities at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. He has held string education positions in Virginia and Florida. He is an active clinician, adjudicator, conductor, and cellist. He has served as music director and principal conductor for many youth orchestras and guest conductor for numerous state, county, regional, and community orchestras. Mr. Eccles has presented clinic sessions at local, state, and international conferences including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic & Conference, American String Teachers Association Conference, Texas Music Educators Conference, Illinois Music Educators Conference, and Florida Music Educators Conference. Mr. Eccles is also a clinician and consulting author for the Hal Leonard Corporation and a Performing Artist for JonPaul Bows. Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3... Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support

Our sponsor: Houghton Hornswww.houghtonhorns.comThe GOLD Method app - Use code GOLD21 when subscribing for one free month!The GOLD Method appAmy McCabe, a resident of Washington D.C., has performed on her trumpet in a variety of genres across the globe. Amy is currently a trumpeter/cornetist in a premier military band which performs regularly at the White House and on national concert tours. She was recently a featured solo recitalist at the International Trumpet Guild conference, the International Women's Brass Conference, a chamber recitalist at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic and was a featured soloist with the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. In addition, Amy has also performed with the New York Philharmonic, the National Symphony, Brass Band of Battle Creek, the Monarch Brass and was a featured soloist of the first National touring cast of the Tony and Emmy-award winning show, Blast! Amy has been a member of the Chicago Civic Orchestra, a fellow at the Tanglewood Music Festival, Spoleto Music Festival, Pine Mountain Music Festival, Artosphere Festival and was a member of the Walt Disney World Collegiate All-Star Big Band. She holds a degree in elementary education from Illinois Wesleyan University studying with Steve Eggleston and Judith Saxton, and a Master's degree in trumpet performance from Northwestern University, studying with Barbara Butler and Charles Geyer.Support the show (https://thatsnotspit.com/support/)

In 2019, the Ronald Reagan High School Marching Band from San Antonio, TX won the Bands of America San Antonio Super Regional for the third time with a record score of 97.30 winning outstanding visual performance and outstanding general effect with their show, ‘Secret World.’ After bursting onto the scene in 2000, the Reagan Rattler Band has won countless contests & Bands of America Regionals and placed in finals 5 times at the BOA Grand Nationals Championships in Indianapolis, IN., including two second-place finishes and one class AAA championship. The Reagan marching band has also been a consistent UIL State Marching Band finalist since 2004 and was selected to march in the 2018 rose parade in Pasadena, CA, and the 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. In 2005 the Reagan Band was the recipient of the prestigious International Sudler Shield. The wind ensemble has also been a consistent TMEA state honor band finalist and was invited to perform at the 2018 Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, IL. In 1999 Ronald Reagan High School opened, splitting from the nationally-known Winston Churchill High School in the North East Independent School District, and the Ronald Reagan marching band began competing in the year 2000. Their 2000 production featured Smetana Fanfare by Karel Husa, Molto Ritmico & Lento for Brass, from Dance Movements by Philip Sparke, & original music by Mark Higginbotham. On October 7th in San Antonio’s Alamodome, the band placed 3rd in prelims and 3rd in finals at their very first BOA regional. And on November 4th at Alief Stadium in Houston, TX, the Reagan band placed 2nd in prelims winning their first caption in school history, outstanding general effect, and finished in 5th place in finals. Joining me today is Mark Chambers who was the director of bands for Ronald Reagan HS from 1999-2006, where he and his team became arguably the single largest driving force in spearheading a change in sound, visual, aesthetic, flow, design, and theatrics within TX marching band. On this episode of Storybook, we discuss The Ronald Reagan High School's 2000 production, “Perpetual Motion.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message

In 2019, the Vandegrift High School Marching Band from Austin, TX won the Bands of America Grand National Class 4A Championship sweeping all captions and was named Grand National Champion with a score of 97.18 winning the award for Outstanding General Effect with their show, ‘Aria: Queen of the Night.’ After bursting onto the scene in 2010, the Vandegrift Viper Band has won countless contests & Bands of America Regionals and has also been a consistent UIL State Marching Band finalist winning bronze in 2018, silver in 2015, and gold in 2013. In 2019 the Vandegrift Band was the recipient of the prestigious International Sudler Shield. The wind ensemble has also been a consistent TMEA state honor band finalist culminating in being named the 2018 TMEA 6A Honor Band. The Vandegrift wind ensemble was also invited to perform at the 2020 Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, IL. In 2009 Vandegrift High School opened, splitting from the nationally-known Cedar Park High School in the Leander Independent School District, and the Vandegrift marching band began competing in their first year as a school. Their 2009 production featured "Finale, The Promise of Living from The Tender Land," and "Third Symphony" by Aaron Copland. On October 24th at Hays High School, the band placed 5th in prelims and 5th in finals, earning State Alternate, at their very first Area D Marching Contest. Joining me today is Jeremy Spicer who was the director of bands for Vandegrift HS from 2009-2014 and prior to his appointment at Vandegrift, he spent eight years as a member of the staff at Cedar Park High School. On this episode of Storybook, we discuss the Vandegrift High School's 2009 production, “Remembered.” --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message

Dylan is joined in the Band Room with Dr. Erik Leung, Director of Bands at Oregon State University. They discuss everything from his path to where he is, influential teachers, the importance of diversity in the wind band field, his position at OSO and more!This month's featured piece is the first movement of Theresa Martin's, City of Ambition, performed by the Oregon State University, conducted by Dr. Leung.Help Support the Band Room Podcast by Becoming a Patron Through Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/bandroompodBRP Storehttp://www.bandroompod.com/storeMusic used in this episodeCity of Ambition – Mov. I | City of Ambition by Theresa Martin Oregon State University Wind EnsembleDr. Erik Leung – ConductorAbout ErikDr. Erik Leung is director of bands at Oregon State University, joining the faculty in Fall 2019. He guides all aspects of the band program, conducts the OSU Wind Ensemble and teaches instrumental conducting. Leung holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in wind conducting from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. He is a native of Calgary, Alberta, Canada and holds a Master of Music from the University of Toronto and both a Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary. His primary teachers include Mallory Thompson, Gillian Mackay, Glenn Price, Mark Hopkins, and Jeremy Brown and he has completed additional studies in conducting with Mark Scatterday, Allan McMurray, H. Robert Reynolds, Craig Kirchhoff, and Michael Haithcock. Prior to his appointment at OSU, Leung was assistant professor of music at Fresno Pacific University in Fresno, California where he also served as director of bands and program director for the music department. He taught undergraduate conducting and directed the chamber winds, symphonic band and brass ensemble. Under his direction the FPU symphonic band was featured in performance at the Western International Band Clinic, the Percy Grainger Wind Festival, the first-ever small band program showcase at the College Band Directors National Association, and the Western/Northwestern Division Conference of the College Band Directors National Association.He has written articles for Canadian Winds and recently created the critical edition of Jan Meyerowitz’s "Three Comments on War" for concert band, published through E.B. Marks Music Company. He has presented at a variety of conferences throughout North America and Europe including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, the national College Band Directors National Association convention, and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles in Utrecht, Netherlands.Leung has been nominated for the Edwin Parr Teaching Award, was a semi-finalist for the Alberta Excellence in Teaching Award and received the Merit Award for teaching excellence at Fresno Pacific University. He holds memberships in the College Band Directors National Association, World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles, the California Music Educators Association, and the Canadian Band Association.Episode LinksOregon State University Bandshttps://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/sac/music/ensembles-festivals/bandsTheresa Martin's Website https://www.theresamartin.net/Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/bandroompod)

Cheryl Floyd has taught middle school band in Austin, TX for over 30 years and is one of the most highly regarded middle school band directors in the country. She is the recipient of numerous awards and honors and has commissioned or been part of the consortium for 14 works for band. Topics: Cheryl's background growing up in Texas, going to Baylor University and starting her career as a teacher. The importance of encouraging students and giving them the type of positive feedback that keeps them playing. The background stories of a few of the 14 works that she has been a part of commissioning. Peer leadership in the middle school band. Teaching in Texas and the power of sound to sight teaching. A general discussion about teaching beginners and middle school band. An anecdote about George Steinbrenner. Links: Cheryl Floyd at Music for All 204 Progressive Sight Reading Tunes Bernstein: Suite from "Candide" Mozart: Serenade for 13 Winds in B-flat major, K. 361 "Gran Partita" Biography: Cheryl Floyd completed her twenty-fifth year as Director of Bands at Hill Country Middle School in Austin, Texas in May 2017.  The Hill Country Middle School Band is recognized as one if the exemplary middle school programs in the nation. Prior to her tenure at Hill Country, she served as Director of Bands at Murchison Middle School, also in Austin, for eight years.  Musical organizations under her leadership have consistently been sited for musical excellence at both local contests and national invitational festivals.  Mrs. Floyd is recognized nationally for her educational and musical vision and commitment at the middle school level.  In 1990 her Murchison program was the recipient of the coveted Sudler Cup Award presented to exceptional middle school band programs by the John Philip Sousa Foundation. The Hill Country Middle School Band has performed at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in 1998 and again in 2006, Music For All’s National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis (March 2012),and most recently at the Western International Band Clinic (November 2014) under Mrs. Floyd’s direction. Mrs. Floyd routinely serves as a conductor on the University of Texas at Austin band camp faculty and has been a member of summer music faculties at Music For All's Summer Symposium, Arkansas Tech University, Baylor University, Texas Lutheran University Stephen F. Austin University, University of Colorado at Boulder, and the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.  She enjoys an active schedule as an adjudicator, clinician, author and guest conductor throughout the United States, having served as one of the first women guest conductors of the United States Navy Band in Washington, D.C. in September, 1998. Cheryl Floyd was the recipient of the Texas Bandmasters Association Exemplary Middle School Band Program Citation and she appeared on the cover of the May 2005 Instrumentalist magazine which contained a featured article on the Hill Country Middle School band program. In 2003, Mrs. Floyd was elected to the American Bandmasters’ Association. She is the fifth female member of this 225 member organization and was the first middle school band director to be chosen for ABA membership. She serves on that organization’s selection committee for the prestigious Sousa/ABA/Ostwald Composition Competition. For nearly three decades, she has maintained a keen interest in commissioning new works for concert band and has collaborated with such internationally recognized composers as Frank Ticheli, Cajun Folk Songs, Shenandoah, Bob Margolis, Renaissance Fair, Dana Wilson, Sang!, Ron Nelson, Courtly Airs and Dances, Steven Barton, Hill Country Flourishes, Chris Tucker, Twilight in the Wilderness. Catherine McMichael, Cape Breton Postcard, Undertow, by John Mackey Spangled Heavens by Donald Grantham, a consortium commission for TMEA's MS Region 18 by Viet Cuong entitled Diamond Tide, and most recently, Sparkle by Scott McAllister.. The works generated by these ongoing projects have been widely acclaimed as being among the most significant works for young band. A 1980 graduate of Baylor University, Mrs. Floyd has also done graduate work at the University of Texas with Paula Crider, Robert Duke and Karl Kraber.  Since 1985 she has served as co-principal flute with the Austin Symphonic Band and in this capacity has performed at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in 1989, 1997 and 2007, the American Bandmasters Association in 1993 and 2006 and before the Texas Music Educators Association and Texas Bandmasters Association on numerous occasions. She is a member of ABA, TMEA, TBA, and Phi Beta Mu. In 2016 she was named a Yamaha Master Educator, one of only 18 in the nation. As such she is positioned to appear throughout the United States as a conductor, clinician and educator representing Yamaha. She annually serves as an evaluator for the Music For All National Concert Band Festival and was recently appointed to the Middle School Educational team for the Music For All Summer Symposium. Looming on the horizon is a book to be published by GIA Publications entitled “Middle School My Way.” ​ Paramount in her life is her musical family including her husband, Richard Floyd, State Director of Music Emeritus at the University of Texas and their son, Richard Weston, who holds a trombone performance degree from the University of Texas and is pursuing his musical career in Los Angeles.

RYAN GEORGE currently resides in Austin, Texas where he is active as an arranger and composer. His work, ranging from music for the concert stage to music for marching ensembles is performed regularly throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Ryan completed his first work for concert band in 2007 and since then his works have received performances at the American Bandmasters Association Convention, the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, W.A.S.B.E., the Music For All (Bands of America) Concert Band Festival, PASIC, Carnegie Hall, the National CBDNA Conference, the CBDNA/NBA Southern Division Conference, and the MidEurope Festival in Schladming Austria. Many of his works, which are aimed at developing performers, have frequented the repertoires of All-State, Region, Inter-Collegiate, and Honor's ensembles throughout the U.S. and Canada. Recent notable performances of Ryan's music have included The "Presidents Own" United States Marine Band (National Tour), the Hiroshima Wind Orchestra (Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic), The Texas Christian University Percussion Orchestra (PASIC National Convention), The United States Air Force Band (A.B.A. Convention), The Lone Star Wind Orchestra (WASBE), and the Finnish Navy Band. He has received commissions for various ensembles including works for the T.C.U. Percussion Orchestra, The Consortium for the Advancement of Wind Band Literature, The Lone Star Wind Orchestra, and the Wan Quan School in Beijing China. As a specialist in music design for marching ensembles, Ryan's work has been performed by some of the nation's elite programs at the state, region, and national venues. His roster of clients includes perennial Bands of America (Music for All) regional champions, regional finalist, and Grand National finalist. Some of his clients include Leander HS (Leander TX), Cedar Ridge HS (Round Rock TX), and the 2018 UIL 6A State Champion Vista Ridge HS (Cedar Park TX). Within the realm of drum corps, Ryan is returning for his 8th year as the brass arranger/composer of the Boston Crusaders from Boston MA. He also was for the Academy Drum & Bugle Corps from Tempe AZ. Ryan is a graduate of the University of Kentucky. He is an ASCAP artist, a member of TMEA, and the American Composer's Forum. His wife Sarah is a producer and talent buyer for internationally recognized music festivals and they are the proud parents of Sophia, Nyla, and Teller. (b. 1978) --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message

Joe Hobbs is in his 4th year as the Director of Percussion at Vandegrift High school in Austin, TX. Under his direction, the Drum Line won the Dripping Springs Drum Line Contest in both 2016 and 2017 as well as the Lone Star Classic in 2018. The Vandegrift percussion ensemble was also selected to perform at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in 2017. Joe was previously the director of percussion at Newman Smith High School in Carrollton, TX. The Newman Smith drum line won both the Plano Drum Line Contest as well as the Lone Star Drum Line Contest. The Newman Smith Drum Line was also invited to present a Marching percussion clinic at the 2015 PASIC Convention. Joe is currently the Battery Coordinator for the Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps from Canton, Ohio. Joe previously served as the percussion caption head for The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps from Rosemont, IL from 2015-2018. During this time the percussion section saw a radical change in placement going from 10th place in 2015 to 3rd place by 2017. The group also saw over a 95% retention rate during Joe’s time leading the caption. Before joining The Cavaliers, Joe served on the percussion staff for the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps and the Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps from Atlanta, GA. Joe was also involved with Music City Mystique as a battery instructor from 2009-2011. He was a member of Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps from 2001-2003. During his time at Southwind, he was named the 2003 DCI I&E Snare drum champion. From 2004-2006 Joe was a member of the Cavaliers snare line. During his time with the Cavaliers, Joe won 2 DCI world championships, 2006 DCI I&E mixed ensemble championship, “Cavalier of the year” and the “Zildjian award” in 2006. Joe received his Music Education degree from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. Other teaching experience includes George Rogers Clark High School, Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps, Murray State University, Austin Peay State University, Mt. Juliet High School, Marshall County High School, and Murray High School. Joe is endorsed by Pearl Drums, Innovative Percussion, and Evans Drumheads.​ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message

We welcome Director of Wind Ensembles at Arizona State University, Dr. Jason Caslor to the Band Room Podcast! Join Dylan as he and Jason discuss his formative years growing up in Saskatchewan, his time at University of Saskatchewan, University of Manitoba and Arizona State University, studying with Dale Lonis and Gary Hill, his time with the Thunder Bay Symphony, Memorial University and how he made his way back to Arizona. Help Support the Band Room Podcast by Becoming a Patron Through Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/bandroompodHelp support the Band Room Podcast by getting your merch at the BRP Store http://www.bandroompod.com/storeMusic Used in this episodeThe "Gum-Suckers" March by Percy Grainger Performing Ensemble: United States Marine Band, Colonel Michael J. Colburn, DirectorAbout JasonJason Caslor is an associate professor of music and director of wind ensembles at Arizona State University. In addition to directing the ensemble, he also mentors graduate conducting students, and teaches undergraduate and graduate conducting courses. Caslor is an educational clinician for Conn-Selmer.From 2015-2019, Caslor served as assistant professor and associate director of bands and orchestras and Arizona State University. From 2010-2015, Caslor served as assistant professor of instrumental conducting at Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada where he conducted the wind ensemble and oversaw the undergraduate and graduate instrumental conducting programs. Prior to that, he spent three seasons as resident conductor with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra (TBSO). During his tenure with the TBSO, he conducted more than 75 concerts (including a CBC Radio national broadcast) and recorded a full-length, internationally distributed CD with Canadian blues artist Rita Chiarelli. Recipient of an “Excellence in Teaching” Award from Memorial University’s Students’ Union in 2012, Caslor also spent several years teaching in the public school system as an instrumental and choral instructor.In addition to numerous regional engagements, Caslor has conducted the National Youth Band of Canada, the South Dakota All State Band, the South Dakota Intercollegiate Band, and the Alberta Wind Symphony. As a researcher, he has presented his work at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, the WASBE International Conference, and the CBDNA National Conference.Caslor’s current research interests include developing a user-friendly iPad application that will allow for the transmission of high-quality audio over the internet for the purposes of internet-based rehearsals/clinics and spontaneous improvisation as it pertains to both conducting pedagogy and large ensembles.Episode LinksJason Caslorhttps://herbergerinstitute.asu.edu/profile/jason-caslorArizona State Universityhttps://music.asu.edu/degree-programsOntario Provincial Honour Bandhttps://onband.ca/OPHB/OMEAhttps://www.omea.on.caSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/bandroompod)

Have you ever wondered what it would be like having a career as a renowned performer and music education training specialist? In this episode, I speak with Dr. Brenda Brenner from Indiana University to discuss her roles as a professional musician, studio instructor, and professor of music education. She also talks about her work with the Fairview Violin Project, a program in which every first and second grader in an underserved school is taught violin as part of the curriculum.    Topics include: (03:28) Brenda talks about his life and professional background (07:50) Brenda talks about making the decision to teach in addition to performing (11:20) Brenda talks about what she has learned from teaching music education courses and leading a collegiate violin studio (15:55) Skills students need to have as the enter the workforce (29:10) Brenda talks about her work with the Fairview Violin Project (49:00) Outcomes for students who participated in the Fairview Project (53:35) Why do we teach music?  (59:31) Favorite rehearsal tactics (1:02:10) Brenda discusses leaders that have made an impact on his life  (1:04:15) Three words to describe an outstanding leader of a comprehensive music program (1:05:45) Advice for music educators (1:06:35) Being remembered as a leader for your music program   Links:  Dr. Brenner’s IU website: http://info.music.indiana.edu/faculty/current/brenner-brenda.shtml Fairview Violin Project website: https://music.indiana.edu/precollege/year-round/fairview-violin-project/ Footage of Brenner teaching at the Fairview Project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fc8ArJT17W0 Fairview Project Concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnQVG_C8Tlo Brenner performing as a featured soloist at the 2009 Midwest Clinic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q8dK9N5OzM   Bio:  Brenda Brenner is associate professor of music in music education at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. She specializes in string music education, teaching applied violin and courses in violin and string pedagogy. Brenner earned a B.M. and a B.M.E. from Wichita State University and an M.M. and a D.M.A. in violin performance from the Eastman School of Music. In addition to her appointment to the Jacobs Music Education Department, she serves as co-director of the IU String Academy, a position she has held since 1993. Her String Academy students have been featured in concerts in major venues throughout the United States and have presented tours throughout Europe, Asia, and South America. As director of the Fairview Project—a program in which every first and second grader in an underserved school is taught violin as part of the curriculum—Brenner is researching the cognitive, academic, and social outcomes of early instrumental music instruction. An active performer of chamber music throughout the United States, she partners with pianist Kenneth Huber and her husband, organist Christopher Young. She also teaches and conducts at the IU Summer String Academy and is assistant director of the IU Retreat for Professional Violinists and Violists. Additionally, she is an active international clinician, with recent appearances at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, American String Teachers Association National Conferences, and Music Educators Conferences throughout the United States. She is president of the American String Teachers Association.

Renee Todd is the band director at Ligon GT Magnet Middle School in Raleigh, North Carolina. In 2019-20 the Ligon Wind Ensemble was selected to perform in the Music For All National Concert Festival and the Jazz Ensemble at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. Topics: Renee’s background as a trumpet player and her studies at the University of Maryland. Renee’s first couple of teaching jobs and how she stayed patient until she ended up in her current position at Ligon GT Magnet Middle school. The process of preparing to take her jazz ensemble to Midwest Clinic and some thoughts about teaching jazz in the middle school. Links: Ligon MT Bands Grainger: Lincolnshire Posy Mackey: Sheltering Sky Cait Nishimura: Chasing Sunlight Biography: Renee Todd is currently in her eighth year as Director of Bands at Ligon GT Magnet Middle School and twenty-seventh year of teaching music. Under the direction of Ms. Todd, the Ligon Band program has grown to over 230 band members, with four wind bands and a jazz ensemble achieving superior ratings at both local and national music festivals. Ligon Bands will have a banner year as the Wind Ensemble was selected to perform in the 29th Music For All National Concert Festival in Indianapolis in March of 2020 while the Jazz Ensemble was selected to perform at the prestigious 73rd Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in December 2019.   In 2018, the Ligon Jazz Ensemble performed for NCMEA (NC Music Educators Convention) in November and Ligon Wind Ensemble recently was awarded invited ensemble at the Music For All-Southeastern Regional Concert Band Festival in Atlanta in 2017 and selected to perform at NCMEA (NC Music Educators Convention) in 2015. Ms. Todd was honored in 2019 to receive the Award of Excellence by the Central District Band Directors Association. In 2018 she received Jazz Educator of the Year from the NC Central Region Jazz Educators and in 2016 awarded Band Director of the Year for the NC Central District. In 1993, Ms. Todd received her Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Maryland College Park, where she studied under John Wakefield, Emerson Head and L Richmond Sparks. While in college Ms. Todd was the drum major and trumpet section leader of the Mighty Sound of Maryland Marching Band and recipient of the Otto Sibenachen- Most Outstanding Musician in the top wind band at Maryland. Before her appointment at Ligon, Ms.Todd was nominated Teacher Of The Year at both Dillard Drive and Wendell Middle Schools.  She has served for site host for the Central District Band MPA and Wake All-County Band and served on the board for the Central District Band Association. Ms. Todd is a member of the National Association for Music Education, American School Band Directors Association, National Band Association, the North Carolina Music Educators Association, and Tau Beta Sigma. As an active guest clinician and conductor, Ms. Todd is scheduled to direct several NC District Middle School Bands including the Southeastern All-District and South Central All-District Bands in 2020. In 2018 she conducted the Northwest All-District Band. Ms. Todd has conducted the Red Jr and Blue Jr Bands at UNCG Summer Music Camp, the Eastern, Central and Western Region Middle School Jazz Bands and the North Carolina Area Independent Schools Honor Band. She has served or is scheduled as a guest clinician for the Buncombe, Cleveland, Davidson, Durham, Johnston and Forsyth All-County, Bands. Ms. Todd is an active freelance trumpeter as well as a private instructor in the Triangle area. ---- I am thrilled to announce a new partnership between the Everything Band podcast and Kaleidoscope Adventures, a full service tour company specializing in student group travel. With a former educator as its CEO, Kaleidoscope Adventures is dedicated to changing student lives through travel to over 40 destinations. They offer high quality service and an attention to detail that comes from more than 25 years of student travel experience. Trust Kaleidoscope’s outstanding staff to focus on your group’s one-of-a-kind adventure, so that you can focus on everything else!  

Arris Golden is the assistant director of bands and associate director of the Spartan Marching Band at Michigan State University. Topics: Arris’ background and thoughts about having the same band director for 6 years. How during her 18 years teaching middle school, Arris was able to bring meaningful experiences to her students through commissions and collaborations. Building a network of colleagues and surrounding ourselves with mentors and peers who can help us grow and improve as teachers. The transition from teaching middle school to earning her doctorate and teaching at Michigan State University. Links: Arris Golden LaPlante: Praire Songs Dahl: Sinfonietta Biography: Beginning July 2018, Arris Golden is the assistant director of bands and associate director of the Spartan Marching Band at Michigan State University. Before joining the faculty at Michigan State University, Golden was a member of the conducting faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and served as the assistant director of University Bands. In this position, she was the music director of the 265-member Marching Tar Heels, director of the Women’s Basketball Pep Band, conductor of the Symphony Band, and guest conductor with the Wind Ensemble. She also taught courses in music education. Prior to her appointment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Golden was director of athletic bands at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina (2008-2009). While at Campbell, she oversaw the entire athletic band program, including the inaugural year of the “Sounds of the Sandhills” Football Pep Band and the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Pep Bands. In addition, Golden served eight years as the director of bands at Gravelly Hill Middle School in Efland, North Carolina. During her tenure, Golden conducted an internationally recognized middle school concert band that participated in featured performances at the North Carolina Music Educators Association annual conference, in Winston Salem, North Carolina (2010) and at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, in Chicago, Illinois (2012). The bands at Gravelly Hill also worked with numerous clinicians, including the premier of four commissioned works for band: “Kitsune: The Fox Spirits,” by Brian Balmages (2009), “The Machine Awakes” for young band and electronics by Steven Bryant (2012), “Freight Train,” by Pierre LaPlante (2013), and “The Cave Your Fear” by Michael Markowski (2014). Golden holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She recently completed the doctor of musical arts in wind conducting from Michigan State University as a 2014 recipient of a Michigan State University Distinguished Fellowship.

TBJ112: Matt Niess on The Capital Bones, 3 x 3, and getting help from the "Trombone Angel" Matt Niess is a multifaceted trombonist who served with The U.S. Army Band in Washington, DC and currently serves as Adjunct Associate Professor, Classical and Jazz Trombone at Shenandoah Conservatory. From his bio page: Matt Niess is a cross over trombonist who served with The U.S. Army Band in Washington, DC from 1988-2018 where he played with The Army Blues and The Army Brass Quintet. He is from Levittown, PA where he attended Woodrow Wilson High School. He earned an undergraduate degree in Instrumental Music Education from West Chester University in 1988, a Masters degree in classical trombone performance from George Mason University in 1996 and a DMA in classical trombone performance from The Catholic University of America in 2015. ​He was director of bands at Calvert High School in Prince Frederick, MD from 1986-1988, and has taught on the jazz faculties of Shenandoah, George Mason, and Towson Universities.  He also served as director of jazz studies and professor of trombone at West Chester University from 2003-2007. Currently, he is the professor of jazz trombone at George Mason University and professor of trombone at The Shenandoah Conservatory teaching both jazz and classical. With The Army Blues he has served as Senior Producer and Jazz Coordinator of the Eastern Trombone Workshop producing over 300 concerts at various venues ranging from The White House to the Monterey Jazz Festival. In 2008 he founded the National Jazz Workshop which runs two summer camps and sponsors a year-round honor band. To date over 1,000 students have participated in “NJW”. The year-round band has performed at The Kennedy Center, The Jazz Education Network, New Orleans, St. Louis, Dallas, Blues Alley, and numerous jazz festivals. He is the founder and director of The Capitol Bones, a jazz trombone ensemble, which has received national recognition and was winner of the 1991 International Trombone Association Kai Winging Award. ​He has appeared as a soloist, clinician, and adjudicator at numerous venues including The Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, IAJE, JEN, ITA, ETW, MENC, PMEA, VMEA, University of Las Vegas, University of North Texas, West Virginia University, Disneyland & Disneyworld All-American College Band, James Madison University, UARTS, University of Utah, The Nebraska Jazz Orchestra, Longwood College, The U.S. Air Force “Noteables”, Mary Washington College, Shepherd College, University of Kentucky, University of Texas, George Mason University, University of Wisconsin, Towson University, University of North Carolina, Shenandoah University, Longwood College, West Chester University, University of Tennessee and others. With The Army Band he has performed with Clark Terry, Doc Severinsen, Bill Watrous, Phil Wilson, Conrad Herwig, Carl Fontana, Don Menza, Chris Potter, John Clayton, Alabama, Rany Travis, Ertha Kitt, Allen Vizutti, Jon Faddis, The New York Voices, Terrell Stafford, Michael Abene, Dave Steinmeyer, Steve Turre, Tim Hagens, John Swana, James Moody, Buddy DeFranco, Dr. Billy Taylor, Bob Curnow, Mike Tomaro and many others.  Venues include  numerous Universities, schools and jazz festivals, I.A.J.E., ETW, The Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, MENC, The Montreux Jazz Festival, The Monterey Jazz Festival, Elkhart Jazz Festival, International Trombone Festival, National Trumpet Competition, The Trumpet Guild, Performances abroad include Germany, Switzerland, Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Russia, Cuba, Afghanistan, Norway and Sweden. As a sideman he has performed with Ray Charles, Franky Valli, Pancho Sanchez, Shirley Jones, The Temptations, Diane Shuur, Joan Rivers, The Ink Spots, Merv Griffin, Mel Torme, Frank Sinatra Jr., Ben Vereen, The Four Tops, The Manhattan Transfer, Pia Zadora, The Smithsonian Masterworks Orchestra, David Baker, Bobby Caldwell, The Rob Parton Jazz Tech Big Band, The Gene Krupa Orchestra, Slide Hampton and many others. He has produced CDs with The US Army Blues Jazz Ensemble, The West Chester University Criterions Jazz Ensemble, The Capitol Bones and The Capitol Bones Big Band and has appeared on many recordings to include The Mark Taylor/Steve Fidyk Big Band, The New Gene Krupa Orchestra, The Alan Baylock Big Band, Graham Breedlove, Doug Hamilton, The Mike Tomaro Big Band, over 100 recordings with The Studio A Big Band and The Washington Winds, Warner Bros. Publications, Alfred, FJH Music, Carl Fischer Music, Belwin Publications and Hal Leonard Publications. He has also recorded soundtracks for FOX TV, HBO, Discovery, and TLC. In this fun and lively discussion, we cover: Earbuds From Houston to West Chester Army Band Lance is bad at math (3x7+3=? hint: not 30) Becoming a band director in Frederick MD Meeting the Navy Commodores and finding out about the Army Blues gig Learned jazz In his mind, he's 6'2" Preparing for the Army Blues audition Getting help from the "Trombone Angel" Replacing Harry Watters in the Army Brass Quintet Do everything three times, three times a day Teaching at Shenandoah Saddled with a work ethic USAF Band stories Mike Tomaro National Jazz Workshop The Capital Bones The importance and value of sight-reading skills Charles Colin "Rhythms Complete" book What's the payoff for a piece of music Bill Watrous running sound for The Capital Bones in Rochester New Capital Bones album coming soon Matt's kids are both freaky good musicians The importance of speaking the language of jazz Terry Bingham and a sweaty bald head LINKS: Matt Niess Shenandoah Conservatory bio page The Capital Bones Facebook page Want to help the show? Here are some ways: Help others find the show by leaving a rating and review on iTunes. Show us some love on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Help us pay the bills (and get regular bonus episodes!) by becoming a Patreon patron. Show some love to our sponsors: The brass program at The Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University and Parker Mouthpieces (including the Andrew Hitz and Lance LaDuke models.) Tell your friends! Expertly produced by Will Houchin with love, care, and enthusiasm.

The legendary Sam Pilafian on Empire Brass, Leonard Bernstein, and life-threatening pedagogy. We talk about his life as a tubist, arranger, composer, educator, performer, producer, and mentor (and countless other descriptors) on our 100th episode. Sam Pilafian is perhaps best known as a founding member of the internationally renowned Empire Brass Quintet (1971-1993). He has also recorded and performed with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Lionel Hampton, and Pink Floyd among others. His long career has earned him an Emmy for Excellence in Instructional Video Production, the Walt Disney Award for Imagination and Innovation in Design, the Walter Naumberg Chamber Music Award, the Harvard Music Association Prize, the University of Miami’s Distinguished Alumni Award, the Brevard Music Center Distinguished Alumni Award, the Robert Trotter Visiting Professorship at the University of Oregon and the annual Outstanding Teacher Award from Arizona State University. Sam is the co-author, with Patrick Sheridan, of the best selling pedagogy texts and DVD’s “Breathing Gym” and “Brass Gym”. Professor Pilafian previously served for 44 years on the faculties of Boston University, the Tanglewood Institute, Berklee College of Music, Frost School of Music at the University of Miami and is Professor Emeritus at Arizona State University.  In this fun and lively (and tearful) discussion, we cover: The meaning of J Andrew as a student of Sam "Up an octave" story Life-threatening pedagogy The amazing story of Sam's recent battle with cancer Beating 3+ Million to 1 odds How studios turn into family Meeting Lance part 1, Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Meeting Lance part 2, Army Band Conference Brass Band of Battle Creek Scott Hartman fruit salad Meeting Andrew, Andrew was 12 at Tanglewood Meeting Andrew, Andrew was 14 at BUTI The amazing array of young players Sam heard, coached and taught at Tanglewood Hearing Michael Sachs as a young player Leonard Bernstein and the beginnings of Empire Brass Oak trees Gunther Schuller, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Bernstein inspiring the beginnings of Empire Brass Gunther Schuller and Eugene Goossens playing name that tune Parallels with the Emerson String Quartet and how that inspired Empire Brass Finding the nucleus in the music Playing bass lines Working onstage with Alvin Ailey Dance Company at the opening of the Kennedy Center (in brown pajamas) Being Bernstein's daughter's bodyguard at the Kennedy Center reception How Empire Brass become a full-time gig Rolf Smedvig's playing A major Empire Brass blowup at Tanglewood witnessed by Andrew in 1993 How Andrew got the gig with Dallas Brass while in a lesson with Sam The line between obnoxious and oblivious Scrapshoot Winning the 1976 Naumburg Chamber Music Prize, the first brass group to do so, leading to being picked up by Columbia Artists The Empire Brass recordings Bernstein "Always go towards growth" Seeing America on tour Learning to talk on stage His teacher, Connie Weldon Coming up in Miami Frederick Fennell encouraging Sam to diversify his career LINKS: Sam's site Want to help the show? Here are some ways: Help others find the show by leaving a rating and review on iTunes. Show us some love on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Help us pay the bills (and get regular bonus episodes!) by becoming a Patreon patron. Show some love to our sponsors: The brass program at The Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University and Parker Mouthpieces (including the Andrew Hitz and Lance LaDuke models.) Tell your friends! Expertly produced by Will Houchin with love, care, and enthusiasm.

Arris Golden shares her career path, speaks on middle school and college recruitment, and goes into detail on the process for commissioning works for school programs. Arris brings forth a wide variety of music education experience and stories. I had a blast sitting down with her, and hope to speak with her again soon!FULL BIOArris Golden is the assistant director of bands and associate director of the Spartan Marching Band at Michigan State University.Before joining the faculty at Michigan State University, Golden was a member of the conducting faculty at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and served as the assistant director of University Bands. In this position, she was the music director of the 265-member Marching Tar Heels, director of the Women's Basketball Pep Band, conductor of the Symphony Band, and guest conductor with the Wind Ensemble. She also taught courses in music education.Prior to her appointment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Golden was director of athletic bands at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina (2008-2009). While at Campbell, she oversaw the entire athletic band program, including the inaugural year of the “Sounds of the Sandhills” Football Pep Band and the Men's and Women's Basketball Pep Bands.In addition, Golden served eight years as the director of bands at Gravelly Hill Middle School in Efland, North Carolina. During her tenure, Golden conducted an internationally recognized middle school concert band that participated in featured performances at the North Carolina Music Educators Association annual conference, in Winston Salem, North Carolina (2010) and at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, in Chicago, Illinois (2012). The bands at Gravelly Hill also worked with numerous clinicians, including the premier of four commissioned works for band: “Kitsune: The Fox Spirits,” by Brian Balmages (2009), “The Machine Awakes” for young band and electronics by Steven Bryant (2012), “Freight Train,” by Pierre LaPlante (2013), and “The Cave Your Fear” by Michael Markowski (2014).Golden holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She recently completed the doctor of musical arts in wind conducting from Michigan State University as a 2014 recipient of a Michigan State University Distinguished Fellowship.

An accomplished composer, teacher, and trumpet player, Vince Gassi has taught music for 25 years and has published over 100 works. He joins the show to share some of the wisdom that he's gained over a distinguished career. Topics: Vince's early years and how a late start led to a terrific career as an educator and composer. Tips for young teachers including the importance of being passionate and caring and how that can help convince the school community that what you do as a music teacher is as important as any other activity. Stories and anecdotes from Vince's career as a composer including some stories of the earliest music that he wrote. Vince packing up his bags to go study trumpet with Claude Gordon and how that trip and his concurrent attendance at the Dick Grove School of Music changed the trajectory of his career. Links: Vince Gassi Star Trek: The Next Generation "When the Bough Breaks" Gordon: "Brass Playing is No Harder Than Deep Breathing" Gassi: Tsunami Gassi: Crusade Gassi: Chesapeake Bay Adventure David Allen: "Getting Things Done" Mahler: Symphony No 4 in G Major Goldsmith: The Thunder of Imperial Names Biography: An Alfred Publishing author since 2006, Vince Gassi is a much sought-after composer, conductor, and clinician. With over 100 published titles to his credit, Vince's creative and energetic style has made him a favourite with young musicians. His works, both challenging and musically rewarding, appear on many international concert and contest lists. Vince received his Bachelor of Music from the University of Western Ontario in London, Canada and later studied composing and arranging at the Dick Grove School of Music in Los Angeles, California. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at York University in Toronto, Canada. For twenty-five years Vince has taught Instrumental Music at the elementary and secondary school levels. He is in frequent demand as a guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician throughout the United States and Canada. His 'Cool Ideas' and 'Digital Workflows for Music Directors' workshops focus on ways to engage students and teachers in the creative process. Vince continues to receive many commissions and his works have been recorded and performed throughout North America, Europe, and Japan. His pieces are frequently performed at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, Illinois. Vince currently lives in the Greater Toronto Area.

Texas band director Ogechi Ukazu is a rising star in the music education community and the new Visiting Assistant Professor of Music at Mary Hardin Baylor College. Listen to this episode and you'll understand why she's heading for great things!  Topics: Ogechi’s background growing up, studying, and teaching in Texas and the exciting plans for her future. How a few great teachers who took a chance on Ogechi made all of the difference in her life and career. How she went from successful middle school director to an assistant band director at Cypress Ridge High School now to a Visiting Assistant Professor at Mary Hardin Baylor College. Ogechi offers her opinions about race in the music education community, what’s important as a teacher in a minority-majority school, and thoughts about how we can encourage young people from at-risk populations to become composers. Links: Cypress Ridge High School University of Mary Hardin Baylor Grainger: Lincolnshire Posy Biography: Associate Director of Bands Ogechi Ukazu is new to Cy-Ridge High School Band Program this year. Prior to her current appointment, she served as Director of Bands at Clear Creek High School (Clear Creek ISD) in League City, TX. Ms. Ukazu conducted the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, and was responsible for the administration of the band program. Just before Clear Creek, Ms. Ukazu graduated from Sam Houston State University where she received a Master of Music in Conducting. While at SHSU, Ms. Ukazu served as principal trombone in the Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, and lead trombone in the Jazz Ensemble. Ms. Ukazu taught middle school for four years in Spring ISD before attending SHSU—her final two years as the Director of Bands at Claughton. In 2011, the Claughton Middle School Symphonic Band performed at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. Ms. Ukazu received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of Houston where she was principal trombone in the Wind Ensemble, split lead trombone in the Jazz Orchestra, and Trombone Section leader for the Spirit of Houston Marching Band.  Ms. Ukazu is currently part of the Brass Staff for The Guardians, an open class Drum Corps out of Houston, TX. Her professional affiliations include, Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Sigma Alpha Iota – International Music Fraternity for Women, and Tau Beta Sigma – National Honorary Band Service Sorority.

Conductor and composer Chandler Wilson is currently finishing up his doctorate in music education at Florida State University. A successful band director at several Florida High Schools, he speaks about the importance of networking and the pursuit of excellence. Topics: Chandler’s background growing up in South Florida and his early experiences making music with his family and in school. Studying with some of the great band directors and band programs at Florida A & M University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Florida State University. Thoughts about living up to the standard of excellence of FAMU and how to foster that motivation in your own programs. The importance the Historically Black College in the music education community and beyond. Chandler’s work as a composer, how he got his start, and his first published work. Links: Chandler Wilson BRS Music Chandler Wilson: In Spirit of Unity Chandler Wilson: Conversations Biography: Chandler L. Wilson is a native of Miami, FL. He attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Music Education. While a student at FAMU, he served as the University Band President and section leader of the saxophones. During his time at FAMU, he was selected as the student arranger and conductor. Mr. Wilson earned a Master of Arts in Wind Band Conducting from Indiana University of Pennsylvania where he studied with Dr. Jack Stamp. Many compositions of Mr. Wilson have been premiered and performed on the concert band stage with All-County/District Honor Bands and All-State Bands. He has also had selections performed at the Music for All National Festival and the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. Mr. Wilson is currently attending Florida State University where he is working towards his Ph.D in Music Education with an emphasis in conducting.

Jenny Neff conducts three concert bands at Bala Cynwyd Middle School, is on the NAfME Council for Band Education, and is currently the Interim Director of the Master of Music and Summer Music Studies programs at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Topics: Jenny’s early background as a horn player and the importance of the early support and experiences that she had that led to her career as a music teacher. Jenny’s program at Bala Cynwyd Middle School and the value of having all of the music teachers working together. The transition period known as middle school or as Jenny says “they come in being babysat and they leave as babysitters.” The genesis of her Midwest Clinic Presentation with Scott Watson (Episode 2) and the value of using Skype to have composers work with her band. The Master of Music and Summer Music Studies programs at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. Links: Jenny's Creative EDge Enhancing the Ensemble Experience Using Composer Skype Sessions NAfME Council for Band Education The University of the Arts Continuing Studies Grainger: Irish Tune from County Derry Strauss: Don Juan Biography: Jenny L. Neff, Ed.D. is in her 25th year of public school teaching, with experience teaching music at various levels K-12 in Connecticut and Pennsylvania. She conducts three concert bands at Bala Cynwyd Middle School in the Lower Merion School District in Pennsylvania. She was recently hired by the University of the Arts in Philadelphia as Interim Director of the Master of Music and Summer Music Studies programs. She serves as the Eastern Division Representative for NAfME’s Council for Band and previously served in roles of advocacy and professional development for PMEA districts. She is part of the PMEA mentor teacher program and serves as a trainer for their online Model Curriculum Framework tool. In December 2017, Dr. Neff co-presented at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, and has also presented sessions for music educators in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Delaware on a variety of topics, including: music standards, curriculum, advocacy, instructional strategies, engaging students, embracing change, and teacher evaluation. Dr. Neff’s doctoral research study was published in the peer-reviewed Pennsylvania Educational Leadership Journal. She has written articles for the PMEA State Journal, and blog posts for NAfME, Zeswitz Music, and J.W. Pepper. She conducted the Concert Band at New England Music Camp for four summers, and has been a guest conductor and clinician in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Previously, she toured Europe for five summers with high school musicians as Symphonic Band Director and String Ensemble Director for American Music Abroad. Dr. Neff received her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Immaculata University. She received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music Education from Michigan State University where she studied horn with Douglas Campbell and Neill Saunders, and played under the batons of Eugene Corporon, Kenneth Bloomquist, and Leon Gregorian in MSU's top bands and orchestra.

Max McKee is the founder of the Western International Band Clinic (WIBC) and the American Band College (ABC). In this episode, the longtime educator tells the story of how and why he founded WIBC and explains how the curriculum he developed at Southern Oregon University eventually became the American Band College. Topics: Max’s musical background and his early experience at the Gunnison music camp that set his course and has served as the inspiration for much of what he does. The story of the Western International Band Clinic (WIBC) including the story of the it’s founding, it’s format, and what a director should expect if they go. How Max’s belief in experiential learning for his music education students at the Southern Oregon University  led to the American Band College. The American Band College program. Links: Western International Band Clinic (WIBC) Bandworld Bandworld Top 100 American Band College Download Center Overtone Series Videos Grainger: Irish Tune from County Derry Biography: Editor of Bandworld Magazine and co-founder of Western International Band Clinic, he is Professor Emeritus of Music at Southern Oregon Univ. where he served as Director of Bands from 1967 to 1994. He is now Executive Director of The American Band College masters degree program in which over 200 candidates from over 47 states and 8 foreign countries are enrolled. Max also continues as a WIBC Board member, has served on the Oregon Arts Commission and in 2014 was elected Chairman of the Board of the John Philip Sousa Foundation. He received the NBA Citation of Excellence and is a two-time recipient of the Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Certificate of Merit. In 1999 he was inducted into the Northwest Bandmasters Assoc. and received the Sousa Foundation’s highest award, The Medal of Honor. He is an elected member of the prestigious American Bandmasters Association, hosted its 1988 national convention in Ashland and served on its Board of Directors from 2000-2002. Max was also presented the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic's Music Industry Award, the WBDI World of Music Award and the A.A. Harding Award by the ASBDA.

Current Past President of the Florida Music Educator's Association and 2017 Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor winner John Southall joins me for an inspiring conversation about music education. Topics: Why a good music education program should inspire the potential teacher to continue to learn and grow throughout their career. Creating a sustainable and passionate appreciation for music and the arts in as diverse a community as possible. The Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Medal of Honor and Alfred Watkins. Why healthy competition can help build community and teach life lessons as long as we remember that students and their well-being must be more important than the success of the performing ensemble. Put the same amount of energy that you put into being a good teacher into our personal lives. Be like a magnet and bring everyone into your orbit! Links: John Southall Indian River College Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor Bernstein, arr. Grundman: Candide Suite Biography: John K. Southall, PhD, currently serves as the Coordinator of Music Education and Director of Bands at Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Florida. He also serves as Music Director of the Port St. Lucie Community Band. He has been an active music education advocate, conductor, clinician, adjudicator and presenter across the United States for over 30 years. Dr. Southall received the PhD and the MME from Florida State University and the BME from Florida A&M University. He has served as a Courtesy Associate Professor of Music Education/Therapy at the Florida State University. He has served on the faculties of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Nova Southeastern University (FL) and Broward College (FL). Dr. Southall has served as the Community Endowed Teaching Chair in Fine Arts at Indian River State College. He has served as the music curriculum specialist, K-12, for the Broward County school district in Florida. He has also served as the Director of Bands at Western High School, Piper High School and Ely High School in Broward County, Florida. Dr. Southall currently serves as the Immediate Past President of the Florida Music Education Association and is also the Conference Chairman for the FMEA annual Professional Development Conference. He has served as Chairman of the Board for the Center for Fine Arts Education (FL) and as Chairman of the FMEA Finance committee. He has served as the Events Coordinator for the FMEA conference. He is also an editorial board member for the Florida Music Director magazine. Dr. Southall has served as the Chairman of the Affective Response Special Research Interest Group (NAfME). He has served as an editorial board member for the Research Perspectives in Music Education journal (FL). He has also published in national and state journals. Dr. Southall has served as president of the Broward Music Educators Association and as Chairman of the Broward County Band Directors Association (FL). He has served on the executive board of the Broward County Cultural Affairs Division. He is the sponsor and coordinator of the Indian River State College Treasure Coast Four County Honors Band Festival. He has served as the coordinator and presenter for the Florida Bandmasters Association’s Adjudicator Renewal Seminar. He has served as a District Chairman for the Florida Bandmasters Association. He has served as coordinator of the Broward Music Educators Region Band Festival. He has served on the Florida Bandmasters Association’s Ethics committee. He has served on the FBA adjudication committee. He has served on the FBA All-State Selections committee. He has also served as an FMEA conference Session Coordinator. Dr. Southall was a participant in Vision 2020: The Housewright Symposium on the Future of Music Education. He has served as the conductor and director of the Florida State University Summer Music Camps Honors Chamber Winds program. He has served as the Associate Director of the FSU Summer Music Camps. He has also served on numerous K-20 committees and curriculum writing teams in Florida. He has conducted band clinics in secondary schools across Florida. He has served as the assistant conductor of the Youth Symphony of Florida (Ft. Lauderdale) and is the coordinator of the IRSC Summer Middle School Band Camp. John and Kelly Southall live in Port St Lucie, Florida, with daughters Kimberly and Kathryn, son-in-law Jacob and grandchildren Neala Rose and Oliver. Dr. Southall is a member of FMEA, NAfME, FBA, FCMEA, Phi Beta Mu, Phi Mu Alpha, Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. He was selected as the Florida College Music Educator of the Year by FMEA. He has also been selected as the Broward County Arts Teacher of the Year (FL) and the Western High School Teacher of the Year (FL).

Mary Land joins me to share 29 years of experience as a middle school band director. Also discussed is her role on the Midwest Board of Directors, finding balance as a band director, and her recent transition to college professor. Topics: The program at Young Harris College and how Mary made the transition from a 29 year career as a middle school band director to a college band director. “You can not teach to empty chairs.” Mary’s thoughts about building a program and attracting students to participate in the band. How to choose good music and creating packets to help students learn the skills necessary to play a piece effectively. Practical advice about competitions, score preparation, cues, and dealing with the percussion section. Keeping balance in your life as a band director and being a lifelong learner. Links: Mary Land Young Harris College Composers and Schools in Concert BandQuest Contemporary Music Project Biography: Mary Land is Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at Young Harris College in Young Harris, Georgia. Mary received the Educational Doctorate in Music Education from the University of Georgia. Dr. Land, a native of North Augusta, South Carolina, received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Georgia and her Master of Music Education degree from Vandercook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. She has served the Georgia Music Educators Association in various state and local offices. Dr. Land is currently the immediate past president of the Georgia Music Educators Association and the CNAfME state chair. She continues to make numerous appearances as adjudicator, conductor, and clinician throughout the United States. Her professional affiliations include: GMEA, NAfME, IAJE, CBDNA, and Delta Kappa Gamma Society International Professional Teacher Association. Dr. Land serves on the Board of Directors for the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and is a member of the Zeta Chapter of Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity. Dr. Land is a member of the National Band Association and has served as a national representative on the NBA executive board of directors. Mary Land is also on the faculty of the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp as the conductor of the Intermediate Division Wind Symphony and conductor of the Interlochen Faculty Brass Ensemble. Many professional awards and recognitions have been awarded Dr. Land during her career. She has recently been presented with The Distinguished Alumni Award from the Vandercook College of Music. Dr. Land has been featured in many issues of the Instrumentalist magazine discussing her teaching techniques and her band program in the public schools and her band program at Young Harris College. She has been presented the National Band Association Citation of Excellence on twelve separate occasions and has been presented the Women Band Directors International Scroll of Excellence five times. Dr. Land was awarded the GMEA Music Educator of the Year Award for 2002 and was presented with the John Philip Sousa Foundation Legion of Honor Award at the 2002 Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic for her contributions to music education. Mary Land was selected by the national publication School Band and Orchestra in their December 2003 issue as one of “50 Directors Who make a Difference”. Mary Land’s band program was the recipient of the Georgia Senate Resolution 212 commending the success of the Pickens County School Band Program. Mary Land and the Pickens County Middle School Band were the 2003 recipient of the Magna Cum Laude Award, a prestigious International Award for Middle School Bands. Dr. Land is published in the journals for the National Band Association, the Instrumentalist, Teaching Music (NAfME), School Band and Orchestra Magazine, and the GIA series Teaching Music Through Performance in Band. Commissioning projects include works by Sam Hazo, Bill Locklear, Barry Kopetz, and Christopher Tucker. Bands under Mary Land’s direction have received invitations to perform at many music conferences and clinics on multiple years, including the Georgia Music Educators Association Conference, the Southern Division MENC Convention, the CBDNA/NBA Southern Division Conference, the University of Southern Mississippi Conductors’ Conference, and the University of Georgia Band Festival.

My special guest for my first Fourth of July episode is Michael Colburn, former director of the United States Marine Corps Band ("The President's Own") and current band director at Butler University. Mike joins me to discuss his time in the Marines, his current position at Butler, and the importance of being ready for any opportunity that might come your way. Topics: Mike's background as a euphonium player and son of a high school band director Performance vs music education degrees and the need for musicians to be entrepreneurial A deep discussion into the Marine Band including auditions, requirements, it's mission, and a few anecdotes from Mike's time as director Mike's transition to becoming a conductor and the lessons he's brought to Butler University from his time in the Marines. Working with composers and his thoughts about the future of music education. His favorite work and performing Stars and Stripes Forever thousands of times. Links: Butler University The United States Marine Band, "The President's Own" Dan Perantoni Adam Frey Percy Grainger: Lincolnshire Posy Biography: Michael Colburn joined the faculty of Butler University as Director of Bands in August, 2014. In addition to conducting the Butler University Wind Ensemble, he offers instruction in conducting, euphonium, and the history and literature of the wind band. Before coming to Butler, Colburn served for 27 years in “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, where he held a variety of positions including Principal Euphonium (1991-1996), Assistant Director (1996-2004), and Director (2004-2014). As Director, Colburn was music advisor to White House and regularly conducted the Marine Band and Chamber Orchestra at the Executive Mansion and at Presidential Inaugurations. He was promoted to Colonel by President George W. Bush in a private Oval Office ceremony in 2007, and in 2014 he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by Gen James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Medal of Honor by the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic Board of Directors.  Colburn is an active guest conductor and clinician. He regularly conducts bands at numerous state and regional festivals and has guest conducted several professional and university bands and wind ensembles. Committed to the creation of new music for winds, Colburn serves as the Co-Chair of the Sousa-Ostwald Award, a prize sponsored by the American Bandmasters Association in order to promote new works for wind band/ensemble. He has served as an adjudicator for the Sudler Award, the Barlow Endowment, Music for All, and the Col. George S. Howard award for excellence in military bands. Colburn is a member of Washington D.C.’s prestigious Gridiron and Alfalfa Clubs, the American Bandmasters Association, and a board member of the John Philip Sousa Foundation Recording of Stars and Stripes Forever by John Phillip Sousa (http://www.marineband.usmc.mil/) [Public domain or Public domain], via Wikimedia Common

Florida State University percussion professor John W. Parks IV is really passionate about the importance of teaching and learning the "right way" and this becomes a recurring theme throughout this remarkable conversation. Topics: John's musical background Trophy hunting in music education and putting the students first The type of students John brings to FSU and how he disarms "problem" students Use the local college to find a percussion teacher to come into your band room. Qualities necessary to becoming a successful teacher and having a plan! Teach skills, not pieces Percussion resources for teachers 2000 Eastman Wind Ensemble Japan tour Garnet House Productions Why college football coaches need to stop cursing so much! Links: Daniel's Orchestral Music Raynor Caroll: Symphonic Repertoire Guide for Timpani and Percussion Black Swamp Percussion Videos Vic Firth Percussion Videos John teaches the Porgy and Bess xylophone solo Percy Grainger: Irish Tune from County Derry Anthony Iannaccone: Sea Drift (Mvmt I) 2017 Orange Bowl Bet with Jonathan Ovalle Garnet House Productions John W. Parks IV Biography: John W. Parks IV, Professor of Percussion at The Florida State University, holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music, Northwestern University, and Furman University and has studied with Patricia Dash of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, John Beck of the Rochester Philharmonic, Michael Burritt, Paul Wertico (formerly of the Pat Metheny Group), and John Beckford. He is artist/clinician for Malletech, Avedis Zildjian Cymbals, Black Swamp Percussion, and Remo. ​ Parks made his Carnegie Hall solo recital debut in Weill Recital Hall in May of 2007, and has performed with diverse performing organizations ranging from the Eastman Wind Ensemble on their 2000 tour of Japan and Taiwan and the Schlossfestspiele Orchestra of Heidelberg, Germany to the Kansas City, Alabama, Key West, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee Symphony Orchestras as well as the Florida Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic, and Eastern Music Festival Faculty Orchestra. Dr. Parks also leads the FSU Percussion Ensemble, winners of the 2007 and 2011 Percussive Arts Society International Percussion Ensemble Competitions and the subject of four critically-acclaimed recordings (Volume One, Volume Two: Not Far From Here, Volume Three: Ten Windows, and Volume Four: Unknown Kind), and has appeared as performer/clinician at the 2011 Basilica Festival in Belgium, 2009 Thailand Brass and Percussion Conference in Bangkok, three Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinics, twelve Percussive Arts Society International Conventions, NACWPI, National Public Radio, and state MENC conventions. In 2006 he won a university-wide teaching award at FSU, and in 2013 was inducted into the Engineering Wing of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences as a voting member of the Grammy Awards. 

Composer Scott Watson is my guest on this episode. Scott has over 60 published works, mostly through by Alfred Music. In this diverse episode we discuss Scott's impressive career including his musical background, his compositional process, acquiring commissions and using consortiums, guest conducting, technology in the classroom, project based learning, graded band music, learning one instrument very well, and finding inspiration in writing music for young players. Links: Scott Watson, composer Scott's works at Alfred Music Queen Mab Composers and Schools in Concert Project Based Learning Scott's Book: Using Technology to Unlock Musical Creativity Michael Colgrass: Old Churches John Kinyon's Biography at Alfred Music Copland: Lincoln Portrait (US Marine Band) Biography: Scott Watson, born 1962 in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania has composed for concert, radio, and theater and received recognition for his work from ASCAP, the American Composers Forum, the American Music Center, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and others. Watson's music for band is published primarily by Alfred Publications, for whom he an exclusive composer. Other music for concert band is published by Wingert-Jones Publications, TRN, C. L. Barnhouse, Hal Leonard, Concert Works Unlimited (a division of Shawnee Press, now distributed by Hal Leonard), and Jon Ross Music. His string/orchestra music is published by Alfred Publications and Wingert-Jones Publications Publications, and his chamber music is published by Trillenium Music Company. You can hear excerpts of Watson's compositions by clicking on the Music links above. About Watson's music, The Instrumentalist says "outstanding...with beautiful melodies and interesting harmonies" (Mark Hosler, 2004), Percussive Notes says "written with supreme craft" (Cort McClaren, 1993), the Allentown Morning Call says "Watson exhibited a great deal of skill in managing the resources of the orchestra...a very well-crafted piece...he will very likely become a force to be reckoned with" (Philip A. Metzger, 2000), and PMEA News says "Watson skillfully transforms his zest for life into his own brand of unique musical exuberance. His scoring for winds, brass, and percussion is excellent" (Kenneth Laudermilch, 1998). His music for band has several times been performed at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic (Chicago) and named to several Bandworld Top 100 and Japan Band Clinic Yamaha Recommends 100 Pieces for Band listings. Recent projects include Youth/Student Concert performances of his Aesop's Fables by the Allentown Band, with dance choreographed by Repertory Dance Theater, as well as commissions by the MusicAlliance Honor Band Camp (Cleveland, OH, made possible by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts), Lehigh County (Pennsylvania) Bandmasters Association, Massachusetts Instrumental & Choral Conductors Association (Spring 2007, concert band and chorus); International Horn Society Meir Rimon Fund (Spring 2006, solo horn and concert band); an American Composers Forum Continental Harmony project commission, Magic Valley, (2004, concert band); Figurations (for winds and percussion), commissioned by the West Chester University Wind Ensemble, Kenneth Laudermilch, Director; Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra, for the Temple University Symphony Orchestra, Luis Biava conductor and Terell Stafford, trumpet soloist; and Hymn and Declaration, commissioned by the Lehigh Valley Chamber Orchestra, Donald Spieth, Director. Watson has been pleased and honored to serve as guest conductor or adjudicator at various band festivals. Watson received his MM and DMA in Composition from Temple University, where his composition teachers include Maurice Wright and Matthew Greenbaum. Watson teaches instrumental and elective music in the Parkland School District (Allentown, PA), and serves as adjunct professor teaching music education/music technology courses for University of the Arts, Cairn University, and Central Connecticut State University and Applied Composition for University of Valley Forge. During the 2001-02 academic year, he served as Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Technology at Temple University's Esther Boyer College of Music (Philadelphia, PA). Additionally, his book, Using Technology to Unlock Musical Creativity, which focuses on project-based, creative music learning facilitated by technology, is published by Oxford University Press.    

Gary Doherty is spearheading a conversation that is long overdue, particularly in the field of music education. We were introduced at Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic by mutual friend Cam Stasa (who gets an associate producer credit for this episode). After just a few moments with him, I knew that Gary Doherty could speak with […] The post Gary Doherty, author of The Ignition Point appeared first on Kathleen Heuer.

In my travels to Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in December, I sat in on a session presented by Christopher Bill, a YouTube artist who recently hit it big with his cover of Pharrell Williams‘ Happy. He agreed to talk with me about his background, how he approached his college education and why he wouldn’t recommend […] The post Christopher Bill appeared first on Kathleen Heuer.

Olin, Veronica and John are headed to Chicago today for the Midwest Band and Orchestra clinic. On this episode we discss the value of local and national professional organizations and their annual conferences.

This episode of Promoting Your Music Program will be the last for this season. For forever and ever, really. That’s because when we come back after the holidays, the podcast will have a new name. To learn the details, join my email list here. Also, I’ll be at Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic December 17-20 […] The post Season 1 Finale of Promoting Your Music Program appeared first on Kathleen Heuer.