Podcasts about nafme

“I think during my formative years, shying away from my true self – my authentic self – that's definitely shaped how I approach being in front of choirs, using choir as a platform to really encourage kids to be themselves. I think there's a vulnerability to singing where it really is an avenue to accessing the truest parts of ourselves, and so that's kind of my life mission now that I get to be in front of choirs.”Chris Maunu is a conductor, educator, and composer dedicated to inspiring young singers and shaping the future of choral music. Based in Portland, Oregon, he serves as Artistic Director of the acclaimed Pacific Youth Choir, Affiliate Faculty at Portland State University, and Artistic Director of the professional ensemble Choro in Schola. Previously, he spent 17 years as the Director of Choral Activities at Arvada West High School in Colorado and 7 years as Co-Artistic Director of the professional Anima Chamber Ensemble. A four-time GRAMMY® Music Educator of the Year Finalist and two-time CMA® Foundation National Music Teacher of Excellence honoree, Chris is a passionate advocate for music education. Choirs under his direction have received national and international acclaim, performing at over a dozen major conferences, including National and Regional ACDA events. His ensembles have earned prestigious honors such as the American Prize in Choral Performance and the Gold Diploma at the Rimini International Choral Competition.In high demand as a guest conductor and clinician, Chris recently conducted the 2025 National 11-12 HS Honor Choir at the National ACDA Conference in Dallas, TX to great acclaim. As a composer, his award-winning works have been performed worldwide. He also serves as editor of the Pacific Youth Choir Choral Series with Pavane Publishing. An active member of NAfME and ACDA, Chris is the NWACDA Chair for Community Youth Choirs and frequently presents at both the regional and national levels. His writings appear in the Choral Journal, and he is a contributing author to A Choral Conductor's Companion.Chris holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Bachelor of Music Education from Northern State University. Most importantly, Mr. Maunu shares his life with his beautiful wife Aleisha, and their children Bodhi and Astraea.To get in touch with Chris, you can find him on Facebook (@chris.maunu) or Instagram (@chrismaunu) or visit his website, chrismaunu.com.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

“Sometimes my students ask me if I worry about the future of choral music with advanced technology, AI, but I really am not concerned at all. The way that I see it, the act of making music with each other, the need to connect with each other – I don't see that going away anytime soon. To connect through honest, authentic communication that is not a digital platform – people want that. I'm excited for the future of choral music.”Dr. Michael Murphy is the director of choral activities and a professor in Stephen F. Austin State University's School of Music, where he teaches choral conducting, ensembles, repertoire and methods courses, and oversees the graduate conducting program.Before joining the School of Music faculty in 2017, Murphy was the director of choral activities and associate professor at the University of Idaho for nine years. During this time, he was founder and artistic director of the Idaho Bach Festival and was recognized with the UI Faculty Award for outstanding scholarship, teaching and engagement.He is an active clinician, adjudicator and author, and research interests include training and developing the holistic conductor, rehearsal techniques, new choral compositions and investing and creating impactful connections in our global community through music.Murphy's international conducting and teaching experiences include Austria, China, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, Germany, Norway, Panama and Sweden. The Confucius Institute awarded Murphy with the "Understanding China Fellowship" and asked him to serve as visiting scholar at Sun Yat-sen University, South China University of Technology and Guangzhou University of Foreign Studies.Murphy is the coauthor and editor of "Conducting Primer in Practice," has been published several times in "Choral Journal" and contributed to volume four of "Teaching Music Through Performance in Choir."As a passionate champion of music for all, Murphy has experience teaching all ages and levels and several auditioned and non auditioned collegiate, community, school and church choirs. His choirs have been invited to perform for several state and regional American Choral Directors Association and The National Association for Music Education conferences. He also has held several international, national and state leadership positions in International Choral Conductors Federation, ACDA, NAfME, and National Collegiate Choral Organization.Murphy received his degrees in conducting and choral music education from Florida State University and East Carolina University.To get in touch with Michael, you can email him at murphymt2@sfasu.edu or find him on Facebook or Instagram.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

**Reupload. Originally Posted 5/15/20**Raise your baton, ready your highlighters and pens, and don't forget to grab that score as Dr. Payne and Eric continue our month long Conducting Bootcamp! Dr. Onsby Rose from Dordt University joins us this week to share his unique perspective as a Composer and a Conductor.Dr. Onsby C. Rose is currently the Director of Instrumental Studies and Associate Professor of Music at Dordt University. In this position, he conducts the premiere instrumental ensemble, the Dordt University Wind Symphony, in addition to conducting the Dordt Campus-Community Band, and guiding all aspects of the Dordt Instrumental Ensembles and Instrumental Music Education programs. He is also the General Manager & Executive Director of the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra and has accepted an appointment as the Principal conductor of the orchestra beginning in the 2020-21 season. Prior to Dr. Rose's arrival in northwest Iowa, he attended the University of South Carolina as a music education major and in 1997 he was accepted as a trombonist for the U.S. Marine Corps fleet bands. During his 11-year Marine Corps career he served as a trombonist and conductor with bands in Albany, GA and New Orleans, LA as well as on staff at the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA. He also served for two years as a baritone bugler with "The Commandant's Own" U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps in Washington, D.C. Dr. Rose completed his Bachelor of Music at East Tennessee State University in 2005. In 2007 Onsby was honorably discharged from the USMC. He then freelanced as a trombonist and worked as a railroad freight conductor in the eastern U.S., before returning to music education in 2012 as Director of Bands at Hampton HS and MS in Carter County, TN. In 2016, Dr. Rose completed his Master of Music in conducting at Appalachian State University. Immediately following he completed his in D.M.A. in conducting at The Ohio State University where he studied with Dr. Russel C. Mikkelson. Dr. Rose has studied conducting with Russel C. Mikkelson, John Ross, and Kevin Richardson with additional conducting studies with Jerry Junkin, Kevin Sedatole, Frank Battisti, Charles Peltz, Eugene Corporon, Donald McKinney, and Steven Peterson. Dr. Rose's outside academic pursuits encompass writing and music composition. Having studied with the late Dr. David Maslanka, Dr. Rose's musical compositions have been performed by many of the premiere military bands in Washington D.C., the Wheaton Municipal Band, numerous college and high school bands in the United States, regional orchestras, as well as internationally in Australia, Japan, Guam, and Germany.  Although Onsby views himself primarily as a teacher and conductor, he thanks God for the gift of composition. Onsby and his wife Jessica live in Sioux Center, Iowa with four of their five boys, Timothy, Caleb, Elijah and Colin. Dr. Rose is a member of numerous professional organizations to include the CBDNA, WASBE, NAfME, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma, and the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. However, he holds closest to his heart the title of United States Marine. (bio courtesy of dordt.edu)Not Your Forte Podcast is a music education podcast that is geared towards helping Music Education students survive and thrive throughout their undergrad as well as prepare to enter the "real world". Not Your Forte is brought to you by Eric Tinkler, a senior in music education at Kansas State and Dr. Phillip Payne, the Undergraduate Music Education advisor at Kansas State. You can listen to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and much more!Support the show

We're joined by Edward Doyle and Wayne Mallette - the candidates for NAfME Eastern Division President. The election is open through February 13th.

SHOW NOTES Episode 040 • November 25, 2024     FIRST STRAIN   News ‘n' Notes:   • Bands of America Grand National Championships   www.indystar.com/story/entertainment/music/2024/11/17/2024-boa-grand-nationals-results-bands-of-america-lucas-oil-stadium-indianapolis-avon-carmel-castle/76230686007/   • Augustana College's Symphonic Band celebrates 150 years   www.ourquadcities.com/news/local-news/augustana-symphonic-band-celebrates-150th-anniversary/   www.augustana.edu/academics/areas-of-study/music/ensembles/symphonic-band     SECOND STRAIN   Topic: Scholastic Books “debates” the value of music in schools   twitter.com/BobMorrison/status/1857070182285312358   www.nyssma.org/letters-to-the-editor-of-scholastic-news-regarding-the-should-kids-learn-music-in-schools-article/   NAfME letter: www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=9631255920234517&set=pcb.8359644700800091   Scholastic Senior VP letter: www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=9644683498891759&set=g.292604557504186     TRIO   This week's interview guest: PAUL LIVINGSTON     DOGFIGHT   Topic: Virginia Tech kicker vs. Syracuse University band   www.syracuse.com/orangefootball/2024/11/virginia-tech-kicker-disrupts-syracuse-marching-band-during-halftime-performance-video.html     CODA   Topic: A bit of Thanksgiving     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

Alan and Steve walk through a blog post from NAfME with four pointers on preserving our voices and coping with overuse. Episode Page: https://www.musicedinsights.com/uncategorized/summer-reading-series-vocal-health-for-music-teachers/ Insider Program: https://patron.podbean.com/MusicEdInsights

“The folks who I think are really doing incredible work around the world, not just for one festival or for one tour, but for decades, are the folks who are trying to literally make the world a better place through choral music. How many opportunities can we provide for them so they can feel like they're part of that bigger family to help legitimize the hard work and the experiences that they're having in their corner of the world?” T. J. HARPER is Associate Professor of Music and Specialist in Choral Music Performance, Choral Pedagogy, Conducting, and Vocal Performance at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. Choirs under the direction of Dr. Harper have performed at Carnegie Hall in 2022, NAfME division and national conferences, ACDA conferences, and International performances by invitation including Costa Rica, Austria, Czech Republic, Spain, and Italy.Dr. Harper maintains an active schedule in the US and abroad as a guest conductor, clinician, and jury member. Recent engagements include headlining the China National Choral Conference and conducting the Beijing Harmonia Choir; Master classes for El Sistema and conducting the Venezuela National Choir. He has been engaged as a lecturer, presenter, and guest speaker at the 2015 Yale University International Choral Music Symposium; the 2015 European Choir Games in Magdeburg, Germany; Harvard University, Hofstra University, and the New England ACDA Collegiate Choral Conference.Dr. Harper is the Associate Director for the Jeju International Choral Festival in Jeju, South Korea, Associate Director for the Icheon World Choral Festival in Icheon, South Korea, the Associate Director for the San Juan Canta Choral Festival and Competition in San Juan, Argentina, the Associate Director for the World Youth Choir Festival and Competition in Jeju, South Korea.Dr. Harper recently held positions as Board Member for the International Federation of Choral Music (IFCM), the past Chair of the ACDA Standing Committee on International Activities, and the Director of the ACDA International Conductors Exchange Program (ICEP).  Dr. Harper received the Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) from the University of Southern California, his Master of Arts in Choral Conducting from California State University, Northridge and his B.A. in Choral Conducting from California State University, Fresno.  To get in touch with T. J., you can find him on Instagram (@conductortj) or Facebook (@harper.tj).Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 3 episode from February 16, 2024, to hear how to share your story with us.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

Standard #1 from NAfME is the best one I think. “Singing alone AND in small groups a varied repertoire of music.” It is of course, crucial in vocal and general music. But it’s value is also present in instrumental focused courses as well. In this return of “Car Thoughts” I will take you through a … Continue reading "Episode 199: Singing Alone, “The Boogey Man in the Closet”"

“If a student has been unsuccessful at elementary and middle school, by the time they get to high school, it's really hard to shift and course correct. But if they haven't been successful at elementary and you get them at the middle school level, you really do have the potential to shift that course in a monumental way, to reshape their views about whether they are indeed successful and worthwhile. You really have such a big role to play.”Jessica Nápoles is Professor of Choral Music Education at the University of North Texas. She teaches undergraduate coursework in choral methods, conducts the Concert Choir, and mentors graduate students in research. Dr. Nápoles served as Interim division chair for Conducting & Ensembles in 2019-2020 and Interim division chair for Music Education in Fall of 2020. A native of Florida with a Cuban-American background, Dr. Napoles taught middle school chorus in the public schools of Miami and Orlando, FL. She received her bachelor of music education, master of music education, and PhD in music education from the Florida State University. Prior to her appointment at UNT, she taught at the University of Utah for 11 years.Dr. Nápoles is an active choral conductor, clinician, and adjudicator, frequently engaging in guest conducting opportunities locally, regionally, and nationally. She has conducted All State and honor choirs in 20 states across the United States. She has conducted the Southern, North Central/Central, Eastern, and Western division honor choirs for the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). In 2019, Dr. Nápoles made her Carnegie Hall debut as choral conductor for the WorldStrides OnStage Honors Performance Series. She was asked to return every year since.In addition to her choral conducting invitations, Dr. Nápoles is a well known researcher, with numerous publications in journals such as the Journal of Research in Music Education, Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education, Journal of Music Teacher Education, Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, and the International Journal of Music Education. She served on the editorial boards of the Journal of Research in Music Education, the premier research journal in music education, the International Journal of Research in Choral Singing, and the Journal of Music Teacher Education. Her research interests center on testing practitioner practices empirically, expressive conducting, burnout, and teacher talk. She has presented at conferences on these topics nationally and internationally. She is presently serving on NAfME's Executive board of the Society for Research in Music Education.Dr. Nápoles is meaningfully engaged with the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) at the national level. She is currently the Chair of the Research Standing Committee. Additionally, she served as Assistant Conference Chair for the 2019 and 2021 conferences, the Honor Choir Coordinator for the 2015 and 2017 conferences, and she is currently the co-chair of the 2025 Dallas national conference. Dr. Nápoles led the writing team of the ACDA COVID-19 task force that drafted a document to assist choral directors at all levels during the pandemic.To get in touch with Jessica, you can email her at jessica.napoles@unt.edu or find her on Facebook (@jessica.napoles.1).Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 3 episode from February 16, 2024, to hear how to share your story with us.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

Ryan Silvestri is in his twelfth year at Wando High School as Director of Orchestras. A native of Boardman, Ohio, Mr. Silvestri earned a bachelor's degree in instrumental music education from Florida State University and a master's degree in violin performance from UNC-Greensboro. He is currently pursuing a doctor of music education degree from Liberty University. Ryan completed his string education studies with the late Dr. Michael Allen, co-author of the Essential Elements for Strings series, as well as Dr. Rebecca MacLeod. As a violinist, Ryan has performed with the Charleston, Greensboro, and Tallahassee Symphonies and also served as Concertmaster of the Brevard Music Center Sinfonia Orchestra. Primary violin teachers include Marjorie Bagley, Corinne Stillwell, Eliot Chapo, and John Wilcox. In addition to teaching at Wando, Ryan served as the inaugural director of the Charleston Symphony Youth Strings from 2019-2022 and as an adjunct professor of strings at Charleston Southern University. Professional associations include NAFME and ASTA. Mr. Silvestri has frequently served as a guest adjudicator and clinician and has published articles in the American String Teacher. Under his direction, the Wando Orchestras have nearly tripled in size and consistently received Superior ratings at SCMEA Concert Festival and other regional competitions. The Wando Honors Orchestra was invited to perform at the SCMEA state conference in 2017 and 2024 and competed in the ASTA National Orchestra Festival in 2018. Ryan lives in Mount Pleasant, SC with his wife who is also a music educator and violinist, and four children. Mr. Silvestri can be reached at: ryan_silvestri@charleston.k12.sc.us -- 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://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/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 charles@orchestrateacher.net 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://supporting.afsp.org/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support

“So many people view conducting as a reflection of the music, and if that works for them, that's great. I view conducting as a reflection of the movement. Undergrads aren't always predisposed to musical language, but they are already predisposed to the language that Laban uses: time, space, weight, flow. Instead of saying 'that's not marcato enough,' you could instead say 'that's not heavy enough' or ‘direct enough.' That's language that we're already familiar with as people.”Dr. Eric Rubinstein is Director of Choral Activities and Assistant Professor of Music at Nazareth University, where he directs the Chamber Singers and Treble Choir and teaches additional coursework in conducting and music education. Prior to his appointment at Nazareth, Dr. Rubinstein served as Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education at the Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College (CUNY).Ensembles under his direction have been recognized across New York and New England for performances of the highest artistic caliber. Program highlights with the Nazareth Chamber Singers include a performance tour of Poland, a year-long partnership with Nazareth's Department of Theatre and Dance, and an invited performance at the 2023 NYSSMA Winter Conference. Dr. Rubinstein led the Queens College Treble Choir to invited performances at the 2022 ACDA Eastern Division Conference in Boston, MA and as the demonstration choir for the 2019 NYSSMA Winter Conference conducting masterclass. The Treble Choir was also honored in 2022 by The American Prize.As a secondary school choral director, Dr. Rubinstein amassed a decade of high school teaching in Monticello and Westhampton Beach, NY, where he concurrently served on the music education faculty at CUNY Brooklyn College. Under his direction, the choirs were honored to perform at Carnegie Hall, Chautauqua Institute, and abroad, and were featured at the 2015 NY-ACDA Conference at the Eastman School of Music. Dr. Rubinstein has also served on the artistic faculty for the New York State Summer School of the Arts, and remains active as a guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator for various choral festivals and conferences.Dr. Rubinstein is a member of NAfME and ACDA, where he also serves as a New York- ACDA Repertoire & Resources co-chair for LGBTQIA+ Choral Music. He holds Choral Conducting and Music Education degrees from Louisiana State University (D.M.A), Michigan State University (M.M.), and SUNY Fredonia (B.M.).To get in touch with Eric, you can email him at erubins6@naz.edu or find him on Facebook: https://facebook.com/erubinstein .Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 2 episode from May 22, 2023, to hear how to share your story with us.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

Ms. Billings-White is honored to be one of four the strings specialists in the Lexington Public Schools. She is currently the only itinerant teacher at the elementary schools, both middle schools and high School. Ms. Billings-White is an active director, strings teacher and performer in the Greater Boston area. She earned a Bachelors degree of Music in Cello Performance from McGill University and a Master's degree of Music in Cello Performance, Graduate Performance Diploma in String Performance, and a Master's degree of Music in Music Education from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Ms. Billings-White is a member of NAfME, the National Association for Music Education; ASTA (the American String Teachers Association; and MA-ASTA, the Massachusetts Chapter of the American String Teachers Association where she is now past President, Secretary and webmaster. She started her teaching career as a K-5 general music teacher in the New Bedford public school district. After that, she started her full time strings teaching career in the Ipswich Public Schools teaching students grades 5-12 and directing their orchestra ensembles. Additionally, Ms. Billings-White is on the Faculty in the Music Education Department at the Longy School of Music of Bard College where she teaches a Strings Method II class. Her musical background also included Trumpet and French Horn during her middle and high school years in Update New York. Other interests include sight-reading parties, musical theater gigs, going on adventures with her husband and three children, making sure her two French Bulldogs (Bear and Bianca) are not tearing up the house, enjoying chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream whenever possible and indoor rock climbing at Central Rock Gyms all over Massachusetts. jbillingswhite@lexingtonma.org --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support

You've met Dr. Steenblik before in his awesome episode about the sight-reading chorus as part of Florida All-State programming. We get to bring him back today, but this time addressing a BIG hot topic - burnout! Get ready for tools, ideas, and so much more — including guest co-host, Alex Gartner! This episode is part of the ACDA National Standing Committee for Advocacy & Collaboration Committee's curated content.Check out more from Dr. Steenblik in episode 143! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QfCtU4Mlcc4 Resources list:Brock, Barbara L., and Marilyn L. Grady, Rekindling the Flame. Thousand Oaks: Corwin Press, Inc., 2000.Hancock, C. B., “National Estimates of Retention, Migration and Attrition: A Multiyear Comparison of Music and Non-Music Teachers.” Journal of Research in Music Education 57:2 (2009): 92-107.Hamann, D. L., “Burnout: How to Spot it, How to Avoid it.” Music Educators Journal 77:2 (1990): 30-33.Kim, Sung Eun, and David Barg, “Reducing Music Teacher Turnover and Its Consequences.” Music Education Policy Briefs (Boston University), October 2010.Siebert, Johanna J., “Why Music Teachers Remain in the Profession: Conversations with Career Music Educators.” PhD diss., Eastman School of Music, 2007. Unpublished.Strauss, Valerie, “Teacher: The Day I Knew For Sure I Was Burned Out.” The Washington Post, December 12, 2014.Warren, Franchesca, “Teacher Burnout is Real – Signs and How to Avoid It.” NAfME.org, May 20, 2015.+ Dr. Steenblik's own experiencesThe Music (ed) Matters Podcast is sponsored by our friends over at Perform International. Thinking of going on tour domestically or abroad, want to take a solo tour, or team up with a dynamic festival? PI offers the best educationally sound and culturally significant experiences! Check them out, and tell them Emmy sent you :) Perform-International.com  Order your copy of “The Business of Choir" - check out the website, businessofchoir.com. Join us over at Patreon.com/MusicEdMatters for monthly meet-ups, monthly bonus episodes, special content, and more!

Ryan W. Holder is currently in his eighteenth year as the Associate Director of Choral Studies at Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, AZ), where he directs Vox Astra and the Northern Voices and High Altitude vocal jazz ensembles, teaches undergraduate and graduate conducting and choral methods, supervises choral student teachers, and serves as the adviser for the NAU student chapter of the American Choral Directors Association and the three contemporary a cappella groups.  In addition, he is the coordinator of the annual Jazz/Madrigal festival, which brings in over 85 high schools and 145 choirs every year.Dr. Holder has given lectures and presentations at local, state, and regional ACDA and NAfME conventions, including a lecture on “Making the Transition from Classical to Vocal Jazz”.  His vocal jazz ensembles have also been invited to perform throughout the Southwest, including performances at state and regional ACDA conferences, and was one of only three vocal jazz ensembles selected to perform at the 2012 Jazz Educators Network Conference in Louisville, Kentucky.Ryan has served as the Arizona State ACDA President as well as on the ACDA National Committee on Educational Technology.  He also serves as the director of music at The Church of the Red Rocks in Sedona, Arizona where he is the founding artistic director of the Sedona Academy of Chamber Singers.Dr. Holder received his DMA degree from the University of Miami in addition to bachelor's and master's degrees from Southern Oregon University and University of Northern Colorado, respectively.To get in touch with Ryan, you can email him at Ryan.Holder@nau.edu or find him on Instagram (@the_ryan_holder).Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro Part 2 episode from May 22, 2023, to hear how to share your story with us.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson

Warning: If you are looking for some joy and some education this podcast is for you. My guest is Ms. Jazzmone Sutton. She is currently the State Advocacy Engagement Manager for NAfME. we look at the topic of advocacy from multiple angles. We examine the difference between policy and advocacy. We also look at how you can deal with your community all the way from your parents to your principal. She goes over strategies for getting what you need for your classroom in a manner that is truly inspiring. We hope you enjoy.

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Anne Marie Patterson (Ep. 61) Anne Marie Patterson is the Orchestra Director at Robert Frost Middle School in Fairfax, VA. She has been a private teacher and freelance violinist in the Washington, DC area for over 25 years, and has taught all levels of school orchestra in Charles County, MD. She directed the Charles County Youth Orchestra and Encore Strings. and is the recipient of the 2018 Outstanding Music Teacher Award from the Maryland Music Educators Association. Anne Marie received Master's Degrees in both Music Education and Music Performance from Florida State University, and a Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance from Washington and Lee University. She has served as President of the MD/DC Chapter of the American String Teachers Association, and is a frequent presenter at the national ASTA conference. She has also presented sessions at The Midwest Clinic, NAfME, MMEA, UMEA and VMEA. Anne Marie is the author of Basic String Technique: A Practical Guide to String Instruction, published by Kendor Music. She is also a contributing author for Rehearsing the Middle School Orchestra by Sandy Goldie. Her instructional videos and materials may be found on her website, https://www.stringsintheclassroom.com. -- 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 charles@orchestrateacher.net 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

The Last One For March with Deb Confredo. Join the hosts as they celebrate Women's History Month & Music in our Schools Month with an amazing interview with the President Elect for NAfME. We also have recaps, interviews, news, and more!Meet our HostsJackie Brown - @spintronixguardCindy Barry - @leandermommaThom Shearer - @tshearer74Trevor Bailey - @t_pain151Whitney Stone - @dancerwhitJustin Surface - @J_dex07Beth Beccone - @bether7189Stephen McCarrick - @stephenmccarickNicole Younger - @o2bnpjs & @thecookoutcgChris Rutt - @wildhornbrass1Guest HostJonathan Lischak - Director of Hamilton HS Guard in OH @hamiltonhs_colorguardGuestsDeb Confredo - www.debconfredo.com or @nafmeFeaturingJoshua Hecht - Drum Major Leadership Academy - @dmlatrainingBill Ives - @marching_pageantry_arts_museumTo learn more about our history: - marchingpageantryartsmuseum.orgJeremy - Drum Corps Today - @drumcorpstoday#marchingband #colorguard #dci #podcast #onawaterbreak #wgi #drumline

As March is Music In Our Schools Month, there is no better way to celebrate than talking with NAfME president Scott Sheehan on the importance of music education across the nation! Scott's presidency began last year, but he has been in music education for nearly three decades. As the Director of Bands and Music Department Chairperson at the Hollidaysburg Area Senior High School in Pennsylvania and former President of the NAfME Eastern Division, he continues his work in advocacy and relationship building throughout the entire country. While we celebrate music education this entire month,  this conversation provides context behind why we should be advocating for music in every school. There are central talking points in this discussion, too, including:How Scott's background has helped him in his presidencyResources for music educators all over in Music In Our Schools MonthBalancing advocacy, research, learning, and growthThe trajectory of music education opportunity in the USEmphasizing collaboration and trust in music educationSubscribe and leave a rating! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! https://www.nfhs.org/ Know someone who would be a great guest? Email: kburke@nfhs.org

"I was in this limbo place, and I took a church job and a community chorus job. [I thought,] 'I need a piece that does this thing, and I can't find one, so I might as well just write it.' I discovered that I really liked it. It became central to me fairly quickly. Writing has always been a fairly need-driven activity rather than something that I just did off the top of my head."Reginald Unterseher is Music Director and Composer-in-Residence at Shalom United Church of Christ, Richland, Washington. His works are published by Oxford University Press, Walton Music, MusicSpoke.com, and his web site, as well as in the Justice Choir Songbook.He was the Washington State Music Teacher's Association's “Composer of the Year” for 2013. Mr. Unterseher's compositions are regularly performed throughout the world and have been featured at regional and national ACDA and NAfME conventions in the US as well as at Carnegie Hall in New York City.Reginald Unterseher has always been drawn to composing pieces about the natural world and current events. His career path has careened between being a ski instructor, an opera and music theater performer, an at-home dad to three children, a conductor, and voice teacher. He has served WA ACDA and NW ACDA in several R&R roles over the last 20 years. He is a founding member of Northwest Choral Publishing. Reg has had more of his compositions performed in a nuclear reactor than any other composer in history, living or dead. He is originally from Walla Walla, Washington.To get in touch with Reg, you can visit his website, https://www.reginaldunterseher.com .Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro episode to hear how to share your story with us. Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from Pexels

Learn more about what NAfME is, the resources it offers, and how to collaborate as part of the greater “Music Education Nation” to advance the benefits of music for all. NAfME President Scott Sheehan shares his vision for his presidency and lessons learned from the pandemic. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode144 Connect with us: Newsletter: https://mpetersonmusic.com/subscribe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnhanceLifeMusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enhancelifemusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpetersonpiano/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/musicenhances Sponsorship information: https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/sponsor Leave us a review on Podchaser.com! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/enhance-life-with-music-909096 In-episode promo: Ultimate Music Business Summit (UMBS) 2023 https://www.musicsummit.biz  

"If you can give students really clear directions about what they're doing with their bodies at all times, then their minds are much more likely to be focused. By the end of the rehearsal, there's all this energy. That comes if you're able to grab their attention and have everyone participate in a visual and kinesthetic way."Dr. Reed Criddle is Director of Choral Activities at Utah Valley University, where he conducts the Chamber Choir and Men's Choir and teaches conducting and voice. In recognition of his innovative pedagogy and professional work as a composer and conductor, Utah Valley University has presented him with the School of the Arts Dean's Award, two Faculty Senate Excellence Awards, and the Presidential Fellowship Award.As a conductor and U.S. Fulbright Senior Scholar, he has directed ensembles, conducted research, and led workshops throughout Europe, Asia, Cuba, and the United States. Dr. Criddle has served as president of the Utah chapter of the American Choral Directors Association. UVU choirs under his direction have performed many times at the national conference of NCCO, the western division conference of ACDA, and state conferences of the ACDA and NAfME.Dr. Criddle's compositions have been performed worldwide by a large variety of ensembles like Musikhochschüle Lübeck Kammerchor (Germany), Beijing Queer Chorus (China), Hollywood Master Chorale (California), National University of Singapore International Festival Chorus, and Auckland Welsh Choir (New Zealand). He has recently guest-lectured at institutions such as the Hochschüle für Musik Franz Liszt Weimar (Germany), California State University (Los Angeles), Taipei University of the Arts (Taiwan), Foguangshan Buddhist College (Taiwan), and the Technical University of Kenya. His compositions and arrangements are available through Earthsongs, Hal Leonard, Santa Barbara Music Publishing, and North Star Music.He is a graduate of Stanford University, the Eastman School of Music, and the University of Michigan.To get in touch with Reed, you can find him on Facebook (@reed.criddle) or Instagram (@reedcriddle).Choir Fam wants to hear from you! Check out the Minisode Intro episode to hear how to share your story with us. Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from PexelsQueens On A RollThis podcast was created to educate & inspire people about the ably different...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify FRANK HORROR Presents: THE HORROR ANALYSISFRANK HORROR features both horror fiction and talk-format showsListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Buzzsprout — Easiest Way to Start a PodcastStart podcasting today. It's the easiest way to start, grow, and monetize your podcast.Brand

Bob Habersat is a creative music educator who fuses technology and musical learning into his high school classes.  He is the co-founder of Shed the Music, an online platform that offers several music-ed tech courses that can be used with students.  He integrates Soundtrap, instruments, vocals, and music theory.  You'll want to check out his website for brilliantly created content!  And next summer I highly suggest signing up for his Beat Bootcamp course.  It's free and you'll learn so much. Bob Habersat is a high school guitar, music tech, and theory teacher.  He is the co-founder of shedthemusic.com. He has presented clinics on music technology, guitar, and jazz at conferences and festivals across the country and he has written articles for NAfME, Noteflight, JEN, and Soundtrap.  Bob is the author of the Modern Music Guitar Method, Modern Music Theory Method, and the Production Through Performance music technology curriculum. When he is not teaching, Bob loves going on adventures with his wife Kristin and their children Lee and Brooke. Links: Instagram: @shedthemusic  Website:  shedthemusic.com  Email:  bob@shedthemusic.com  

"It's not about the notes. It's not about the rhythms. It's about connection. It's about getting a connection with each other, a connection to the conductor, and a connection to the music -- and discovering that it's a relationship with the music that will make a huge difference. I'm there as facilitator to make that happen."Dr. Edith A. Copley is regents professor emeritus at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, where she conducted the Shrine of the Ages Choir, Chamber Singers, and University Singers and taught undergraduate and graduate conducting, choral methods, and graduate choral literature. Her choirs have performed at state, region, and national choral conferences, in Carnegie Hall, and have toured internationally. Prior to her 31-year tenure at NAU, she taught secondary choral music in Iowa and later in Vienna, Austria at the American International School. Copley has received numerous honors, including the NAU Centennial Teacher of the Year, Arizona Music Educator of the Year, Arizona ACDA Outstanding Choral Director, and The Weston H. Noble Award from her alma mater, Luther College. She has served ACDA as a state and regional president, and interest session chair for the 2011, 2019 and 2021 national conferences. Copley is currently ACDA national president-elect. She has conducted all-state choirs in over 30 states, ACDA and NAfME national honor choirs, and international choral festivals in Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, Luxembourg, Tasmania, England, Australia, China, Oman and Turkey.To get in touch with Edith, you can email her at ec@nau.edu or find her on Facebook @edith.copley.9 .Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to contact our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from Pexels

We're joined by Pennsylvania's own Scott Sheehan who is a music educator in the Hollidaysburg Area School District. He has also just taken over as president of NAfME for the next two years, Scott joins us to talk about plans for his presidency and his views on some big issues in music education.

Lauren returns from Alaska with a new love for the Musk Ox. Anthony and Lauren discuss the recent urgency to "catch up" after the pandemic. Anthony explores his latest project at SubStack. Check out Anthony's SubStack Here! Rob Lyda joins us to discuss NAfME and the Council for General Music Education. It's a great conversation!

Why do we need to advocate for music education anyway? In this episode we hear from Jazzmone Sutton, State Advocacy Manager for the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), about her experience fighting for music education, and her perspective on music education advocacy. Before joining NAfME in 2021 Jazzmone was an elementary music educator in North Carolina. She relies on that experience to provide advocacy strategies for NAfME members across the United States.

"I came to Alexander Technique trying to see if there was a way that I could experience less pain when I conduct. Over time, I retaught myself. It's not a quick process, because nothing about Alexander Technique is a quick fix, but I do experience less pain."Dr. Angelica Dunsavage serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Tennessee State University, where she conducts the TSU University Choir and the Meistersingers. Prior to her appointment at TSU, Dr. Dunsavage taught music education and choral/vocal classes at Washington State University. Dr. Dunsavage received her DMA in Choral Conducting and Music Education from University of Arizona. She received her MM in Choral Conducting from Bowling Green State University, and her BS in Music Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Her conducting mentors include Dr. Elizabeth Schauer, Dr. Bruce Chamberlain, Dr. Mark Munson, and Dr. Sandra Stegman.Dr. Dunsavage currently serves as editor of Western ACDA's Tactus publications and previously served as editor of AzACDA's Antiphon. Her writing has appeared in these journals as well as the Choral Journal and the Choral Scholar. She has presented posters and interest sessions for NCCO, NAfME and College Music Society conferences. Dr. Dunsavage's primary research interests are secular music of the German Baroque era, and the application of Alexander Technique to choral and conducting pedagogy.Dr. Dunsavage has served in church, community, and public-school teaching positions in the Arizona, Ohio and Pennsylvania areas, and remains in demand as a clinician, vocal teacher, professional chorister, and mezzo soprano soloist.To get in touch with Angelica, you can find her on Facebook (@a.m.dunsavage) or send her an email at adunsavage@gmail.com. Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to get in contact with our hosts.Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from Pexels

Scott Sheehan is the current NAfME National President-Elect.A nationally recognized advocate and leader for the advancement of music education, Scott is the Director of Bands and Music Department Chairperson at the Hollidaysburg Area Senior High School in Hollidaysburg, PA. He was a finalist for the 2019 GRAMMY Music Educator Award and is an Educational Clinician for Conn-Selmer. Scott is also a consultant for strategic planning and association development. nafme.orgwebsite: jenrafferty.comFB & IG: @jenraffertymusicClubhouse: @jenraffertyCover Art: https://goodneighborart.com/

This week Kathryn and Theresa had the pleasure of interviewing NAfME president-elect, Scott Sheehan! In addition to his NAfME responsibilities, Scott is the high school band director and K-12 music department chair in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. He is involved with PMEA, working with their Leadership Academy and the Model Curriculum Framework project. Scott is also a Conn-Selmer educational clinician. Along with his varied roles and teaching experiences, Scott is very knowledgeable about the national music standards launched in 2014. He even worked on one of the revision teams, providing feedback on the performance track before the standards were officially released. In this interview, Scott shared some great information about the standards, including: The creation and adoption of the 2014 National Core Arts Standards and how, as process-driven standards, they differ from the 1994 standards How these standards support student empowerment How to look at the verbs within the standards to understand where to start What it looks like in the classroom Where to start when incorporating the standards more in lesson plans Connect with Scott and learn more: NAfME President-Elect Hollidaysburg High School To learn more about Pass the Baton: Get a free book preview here - Pass the Baton: Empowering All Music Students For more information and resources - Pass the Baton Free Download: 6 Questions to Pass the Baton and Empower Your Music Students Free Download: Amplify Student Voice With Exit Tickets for Self Reflection

"I have a strong connection with treble ensembles because of our shared experiences. It feels safer to make a mistake. I feel I can take more risks with them."Dr. Dominique Petite serves the faculty of Ohio University as Visiting Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education. Prior to her appointment at Ohio, while pursuing her doctorate at Louisiana State University, she directed choirs (both mixed and treble ensembles), coached undergraduate conducting, and taught Music Theory for Non-Majors. Her research interests include rehearsal pedagogy, fostering musicianship in ensemble settings, mentorship across the teaching continuum, and utilizing energetics in choral rehearsals.Before beginning her doctoral work, Petite taught middle and high school music for fourteen years, specializing in Women's Choir and AP Music Theory. Her ensembles consistently received superior ratings for performance and sight-singing at district choral adjudications, and her students had high participation in Southern Division and National ACDA Honor Choirs, GMEA Sight-Reading Choir, and Georgia All-State Chorus.Dr. Petite has maintained an active performance schedule, including singing in the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus and ASO Chamber Chorus and solo work as a blues and acoustic rock artist in the Atlanta area. She is currently performing with Red Shift Choir. Dr. Petite is a member of ACDA, NCCO, NAfME, and CMS.Petite has a doctorate in Choral Conducting from Louisiana State University, where she studied with John Dickson, Ann Marie Stanley, and James Byo. She earned a BME and MME in Choral Music Education from Florida State University under Judy Bowers, Kevin Fenton, and André Thomas.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to get in contact with our hosts.You can email Dominique at petite@ohio.edu .Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from Pexels

"There was a line of places where doors just opened up, and I went through. I believe I'm meant to be here... The challenges you're provided will prepare you for what's to come in your future."Dr. Dean Luethi serves as the Director of the School of Music, Director of Choral Activities, and Associate Professor at Washington State University. He received his BM in Vocal Music Education from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, his MM in Choral Conducting from the University of South Florida in Tampa, and his DMA in Choral Music from the University of Illinois – Urbana/Champaign. Before working at WSU, Dean was a high/middle school choir and musical theatre director in the Green Bay area. He also served as a visiting instructor at the University of South Florida in Tampa.Known for his work as a choral pedagogue, Dean has presented research, workshops, or conducted choirs at festivals, conferences, and competitions in the US, India, China, Cuba, Canada, Austria, Poland, and Germany. He is published in Choral Journal and Music Educator's Journal. As part of his service to the National Choir Council of NAFME, Dean works with and has prepared a virtual choral conducting series for choral conductors in India. Dean's book Aligning Voices: Exercises to Build Choral Musicianship is available through GIA Publications.Dean lives with his wife, Ruth Boden, in Pullman, WA. In his free time Dean enjoys amateur photography and spending time with their two cats.Email choirfampodcast@gmail.com to get in contact with our hosts.You can contact Dean at dean.luethi@wsu.edu or find him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dean.luethi . Podcast music from Podcast.coPhoto in episode artwork by Trace Hudson from Pexels

Bob Habersat is a high school music teacher and co-founder of shedthemusic.com. He has presented clinics on music technology, guitar, and jazz at conferences and festivals across the country and has written articles for NAfME, Noteflight, JEN, and Soundtrap. Bob is the author of the Modern Musicianship Guitar Method and the Production Through Performance music technology curriculum. He is also the host of The Shed's Spotlight podcast where he interviews and collaborates with artists, educators, and other notable figures in the music education orbit. When he is not teaching, Bob loves going on adventures with his wife Kristin and their children Lee and Brooke. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/musicast-podcast/support

In January, The Choral Commons hosted a round table discussion on justice-centered choral advocacy, accountability, and strategic planning for the new year with  panelists: Catherine Dehoney, President & CEO, Chorus America; Maria Guinand, Vice President, IFCM; Mackie Spradley, President, NAfME; Elizabeth Swanson, Vice President, NCCO; and Andre Thomas, Vice-President, ACDA.

Greg Bimm has been the band director at Marian Catholic in Chicago for 44 years. During his time there his bands have been consistently excellent both on the marching field and on the stage, including Bands of America's Grand National Champion seven times and a whopping 40 straight years undefeated in their class at the Illinois Superstate competition. Links: Marian Catholic High School Band Persichetti: Symphony Biography: Greg Bimm has been Director of Bands at Marian Catholic High School since 1977. Under his direction, the Marian Band has grown from 70 to over 280 members, has earned over 600 awards and honors, and has become one of the premier high school band programs in the United States. Mr. Bimm's history with Bands of America dates back to 1981 when the Marian Catholic marching band came to the BOA Summer Workshop/Festival (now the Summer Symposium) to serve as the "lab band." Directors enrolled in the Directors Workshops observed marching teaching theory in practice with the Workshop faculty and the Marian Catholic Band. Since then, the Marian Catholic bands are among the most honored in BOA history. Marian has been named the BOA Grand National Champions seven times and is the only marching band to win the Grand National Champion title three consecutive years. They have participated in 21 consecutive Grand Nationals, numerous Regional Championships and the BOA Summer Nationals held in the 1980s, winning five Summer National titles. The Marian Catholic Symphonic Band was one of only eight bands invited to perform at the first National Concert Band Festival in 1992, held at Northwestern University and has performed again in 1995 and 1998. Mr. Bimm is a member of the 2005 Summer Symposium faculty. Most recently, Mr. Bimm was part of the teaching staff for the Bands of America Honor Band that appeared in the 2005 Tournament of Roses Parade. Mr. Bimm is a current member and past chairman of the Bands of America Advisory Board and has served several terms on BOA advisory bodies. His input and expertise have been instrumental in guiding the direction of Bands of America programming. "Greg and the Marian Catholic band program serve as an inspiration and model for band directors across the nation," says Scott McCormick, MFA President and CEO. Mr. Bimm has received five National Band Association Citations of Excellence and the NBA Certificate of Merit, was named the 1983 national winner of the ASBDA Stanbury award for young band directors, and received the Sudler Order of Merit from the John Philip Sousa Foundation in 1991 and 1997. In 1999, Mr. Bimm was among the first to be awarded the “Mary Hoffman” Award of Excellence by the Illinois Music Educator’s Association and in 2000 was recognized for contribution and support to art education by the Illinois Alliance for Arts Education. In 1994, Bimm was elected to membership in the prestigious American Bandmasters Association. Mr. Bimm holds degrees from Illinois State and Western Illinois Universities. His professional affiliations include ABA, ASBDA, IMEA, NAfME, NCBA, NBA, Phi Beta Mu, and Phi Mu Alpha. He has served on the Illinois High School Association Music Advisory Committee, and has served as Band Division chairman, District I and state equipment manager for IMEA. In constant demand, Mr. Bimm has performed as conductor, clinician, adjudicator, drill writer, or music arranger throughout the United States and Canada. The Everything Band Podcast team includes the following contributors: Host and Creator: Mark Connor Outreach Manager: Colin Peters Creative Director: Jake Walker

Intro - 0:00Tune called Planxty Sir Festus Burke | Randal Bays/fiddle, Chris Smith/tenor banjo, Roger Landes/bouzouki | composition by Turlough O'Carolan, from the album “Coyote Banjo” by Chris SmithPart I, Path to Music Education - 01:34Relating to Jacqueline Henninger's experience in pedagogy, music education, and the Fulbright program that led her to Texas Tech University .Part II, Making Connections, Opening Doors - 29:21Relating to Jacqueline Henninger's experience at Texas Tech University teaching future music educators, creating more accessible spaces,  and changing the standard of music education pedagogy.Part III, Personal Identity/Experience in Academia - 44:47Relating to Jacqueline Henninger's experience as a woman of color in academia, the music education field, and as an advisor/mentor to students.Outro - 51:12Planxty Sir Festus Burke Dr. Jacqueline C. Henninger, Associate professor of Music Education and Associate Director for Performance, Education, and Applied Studies (PhD, Music Education, MM, Music Education, and BM Music Studies, The University of Texas at Austin) began her position in the School of Music at Texas Tech University (TTU) in August 2014.  In 2018, she was inducted into the TTU Teaching Academy and was also named a recipient of the TTU Alumni Association New Faculty Award.  Prior to joining the faculty at TTU, Dr. Henninger was a Fulbright Scholar in Sub-Saharan Africa, which enabled her to teach and research at Tumaini University Makumira in Usa River, Tanzania, East Africa from 2012 - 2014.From 2005 – 2013, Dr. Henninger was an Assistant Professor of Music and Human Learning with the Butler School of Music faculty at The University of Texas at Austin (UT-Austin). Immediately prior to that faculty appointment, she was a member of the music education faculty at The Ohio State University (2000 - 2005).  Her teaching responsibilities have included undergraduate and graduate courses in music education, coordinating and supervising student teachers, and advising master and doctoral level examinations, projects, theses, and dissertations.Her research, which has been presented at state, national, and international conferences, is focused on two academic areas:  teacher preparation and multicultural music education.  Dr. Henninger's articles have been published in the Journal of Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, Journal of Music Teacher Education, Journal of Band Research, Texas Music Education Research, Global Music and Culture:  Intersections and Inclusion, Texas Music Educators Conference (TMEC): Connections, and TRIAD.  She is also the author of a textbook chapter entitled The Teaching and Learning of Music of East Africa:  Songs and Dances of Tanzania, which is within the textbook entitled Teaching General Music:A K-12 Experience.  Dr. Henninger has served and is currently serving on the editorial boards for several state and national refereed journals in the field of music education. Dr. Henninger is active in state, national, and international organizations.  She is currently the Past President of NAfME-Texas, which is the state affiliate of the national organization (NAfME, which is the National Association for Music Education).  Prior to being elected into the position of President, she served as President-Elect, Member-at-Large, and was on the Council of Chairs for NAfME-Texas (formerly known as TMEC, which was the Texas Music Educators Conference).She has also served as the Chair for the Special Research Interest Group (SRIG): Instructional Strategies with NAfME and was recently appointed as the Board Advisor for the Society for Music Teacher Education (SMTE). After earning her Bachelor of Music degree from UT-Austin, Professor Henninger had a highly successful public school teaching career as a choral and band director at Fulmore Middle School in the Austin Independent School District.  Dr. Henninger continues to enjoy working with public school students, prospective music educators, and practitioners as an events adjudicator, guest clinician, guest conductor, guest lecturer/presenter, and guest panelist on local, national, and international levels. VVMC: Friends & Voices, a Collaborative PlaylistVoices from the Vernacular Music Center

James Swearengen has composed over 700 published works and is one of the most recognizable names in the wind band community. He joins me to discuss not only his music but also the story his early career as a band director and some of the wisdom he has acquired over a stellar career. Links: Jager: Esprit de Corps Nestico: Boys of Wexford Swearengen: Into the Joy of Spring Biography: James Swearingen’s talents as a performer, composer/arranger and educator include a background of extensive training and experience. He has earned degrees from Bowling Green State University and The Ohio State University. In recognition of distinguished contributions, Mr. Swearingen was recently accorded the title of Professor Emeritus from Capital University located in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to his appointment at Capital in 1987, he spent eighteen years teaching instrumental music in the public schools of central Ohio. His first teaching assignment took him to the community of Sunbury, Ohio. He then spent fourteen years as Director of Instrumental Music at Grove City High School, where his marching, concert, and jazz bands all received acclaim for their high standards of performing excellence. Mr. Swearingen currently serves as a staff arranger for the famed Ohio State University Marching Band. In addition to his arranging responsibilities, Mr. Swearingen manages to be very active as a guest conductor, adjudicator and educational clinician. Appearances have included trips throughout the United States, as well as Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan, Norway, the Republic of China and Singapore. School directors, student performers and audiences worldwide have enthusiastically received Mr. Swearingen’s numerous contributions for band. With over 650 published works, he has written band compositions and arrangements that reflect a variety of musical forms and styles. Many of his pieces, including 120 commissioned works, have been chosen for contest and festival lists. He is a recipient of several ASCAP awards for published compositions and in 1992 was selected as an Accomplished Graduate of the Fine and Performing Arts from Bowling Green State University. In March of 2000, he was invited to join The American Bandmasters Association, considered to be the most prestigious bandmaster organization in the world. Mr. Swearingen received the 2002 Community Music Educator Award given annually by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. In that same year, he became conductor of the Grove City Community Winds. This highly talented ensemble consists of many fine musicians from the central Ohio area. On June 20, 2009, The American School Band Directors Association, Inc., presented Mr. Swearingen with the A. Austin Harding Award. This prestigious award is presented annually by the organization and is reflective of valuable and dedicated service to the school bands of America. In 2011, he received the Hall of Fame Award presented by the Ohio Chapter (Mu) of Phi Beta Mu. The OMEA Distinguished Service Award was presented to him at the 2014 OMEA Professional Development Conference. Later that year, he was presented the Signature Sinfonian Award by Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. On April 21, 2015, The Ohio State School of Music honored Mr. Swearingen with their Distinguished Alumnus Award. It should be noted that he is also a member of numerous professional and honorary organizations including NAfME, ASBDA, Phi Beta Mu and Pi Kappa Lambda. The Everything Band Podcast team includes the following contributors: Host and Creator: Mark Connor Outreach Manager: Colin Peters Creative Director: Jake Walker

In this episode, Chris and Gareth talk with James Dekle, the artist in residence at the Purdue Black Cultural Center. We at Music2gether want to honor our Black colleagues throughout the year (not just during February as Black History Month), so we discussed his work as a Black person in predominantly White spaces, racialized trauma, and the healing power that comes from musical experiences. James grew up in Statesboro, Georgia. He attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, FL, Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. and now the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He spent a lot of his adult life conducting choirs in North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Indiana. He was also involved in the Atlanta Music Project, an El Sistema program. At Purdue, he directs the Black Voices of Inspiration Choir and the Purdue Express, a group he founded in 2016. He's a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of American, ACDA, NAFME, and the Georgia Music Industry Association.

Bill Jastrow discusses comprehensive musicianship, organizing a school district's music program, and the caring and "feeding" of the young percussionist.Special thanks to my friend and colleague Scott Barnas for taking the lead on this episode! Visit us at www.thebandmasters.com, or download this episode and more wherever you find your favorite podcasts.FULL BIOSpanning 41 years, William Jastrow's teaching experience ranges from a community high school with an enrollment of 450 students, to Neuqua Valley H.S. with an enrollment exceeding 4,000, to the position of Music Education Coordinator for Indian Prairie School District 204, a unit district comprising 33 schools and 29,500 students. Teaching and conducting responsibilities at Neuqua Valley included concert bands, jazz ensembles, marching band, and the Klangfarben Percussion Ensembles. Jastrow holds degrees in music education from the University of Illinois and Northwestern University. A frequent Illinois All-State and NAfME clinician, as well as a district and all-state festival conductor, Jastrow served the Illinois Music Education Association Board of Directors as Band Division President and State President. As an executive officer, Jastrow assumed a leading role in the development of a Leadership Conference for exemplary music educators, a Future Music Educators Symposium for high school students, and an All-State Percussion Ensemble. As past president, Jastrow was active in promoting a statewide survey on the status of music education, contributed to the planning of “Dream Out Loud”, a joint advocacy initiative with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Yamaha, and authored numerous articles on the vital role that music should play as part of a comprehensive education for all students. Over his career, Jastrow's bands have performed for the University of Illinois Superstate Festival, the NBA National Convention, the West Sussex International Youth Music Festival, and the Liberty, Outback, and Fiesta Bowl festivals and parades, as well as for international audiences in Canada, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, and the People's Republic of China. During his tenure, Neuqua Valley H.S. was recognized as the Kennedy Center National School of Distinction in Fine Arts Education and was a multiple recipient of the Grammy Signature Gold and National Signature School Award. A 2011 inductee into the Phi Beta Mu Illinois Bandmasters Hall of Fame, Jastrow is a recipient of the John Paynter Lifetime Achievement Award, Illinois State Board of Education "Those Who Excel" Recognition, ILMEA Distinguished Service Award, and NAfME Excellence in Teaching Music Award.

Dr. Jennifer Campbell is entering her fourth year as Coordinator and an Assistant Professor of Music Education at The College of Saint Rose, where she facilitates the growth of preservice music educators at every level. She is proud to serve as the advisor of the Collegiate NAfME chapter and was proud to support her advisees’ in hosting the 2020 Collegiate-NYSSMA Advocacy and Professional Development Conference in February. She teaches preschool and pre-K music and facilitating preservice music educator observation and field experience at the St. Rose Nursery School. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Baldwin Wallace Conservatory and earned her MM and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Mississippi. Before seeking full-time graduate work, Jennifer was a successful music educator in Hockessin, Delaware. Over her five-year tenure, she taught courses in general and vocal music to students in grades Pre-K through Eighth, directed two choirs, and served as technical and assistant director for many theatrical productions. She continued to actively teach preschool and pre-K music at the Willie-Price laboratory school during her graduate studies at Ole Miss. As an elementary music specialist, she has completed three levels in the Orff-Schulwerk approach and holds a level II certificate in Kodály pedagogy. She was honored to participate and present at the 2019 Southwest Region Collegiate Summit, sponsored by the NAfME. She has presented for Albany City Music Educators in 2018, the Diocese of Albany Catholic Music Educators in 2019, and at the NYSSMA Winter Conference in 2018. She serves as a College Liaison for the Berkshire-Hudson Valley Chapter of the America Orff-Schulwerk Association, hosting professional developments on-campus for in-service and preservice music educators each year. Jennifer has presented her research on female music educators of the nineteenth century at the 2017 Oklahoma Symposium on the History of Music Education and her research on early childhood singing at the 2016 NAfME Music Research and Teacher Education National Conference. She is a member of the National Association for Music Educators, the Organization for Kodaly Educators, and the American Orff-Schulwerk Association.

Dr. Reed Criddle is Director of Choral Activities at Utah Valley University, where he conducts the Chamber Choir and Men's Choir and teaches conducting and voice. Twice recipient of the UVU Faculty Senate Teaching Excellence Award, his compositions and arrangements are available through Earthsongs, Hal Leonard, and Santa Barbara Music Publishing. As a conductor and U.S. Fulbright Senior Scholar, he has directed ensembles, conducted research, and led workshops throughout Europe, Asia, Cuba, and the United States. He is editor of "Chanting the Medicine Buddha Sutra" (A-R Editions), an ethnography of Buddhist liturgy. His pioneering English translation of third-century philosopher Ruan Ji's "Essay on Music" is published by Asian Music. Dr. Criddle has served as president of the Utah chapter of the American Choral Directors Association. UVU choirs under his direction have performed many times at the national conference of NCCO, the western division conference of ACDA, and state conferences of the ACDA and NAfME. Recent invitations include guest conductor of the Utah Valley Symphony, Timpanogos Symphony Orchestra, Utah Lyric Opera, Sine Nomine (Cuba), FACE Choral Festival (Texas), Utah Men's High School Honor Choir, Utah Junior High Honor Choir; professor-in-residence at Musikhochschule in Weimar, Lubeck, and Hamburg (Germany), National Sun Yat-sen University (Taiwan), Taipei National University of the Arts, and Fudan University (Shanghai); and keynote speaker for the China Children's Center in Beijing and Shanghai Music Conductors Association Conference. He is a graduate of Stanford University, the Eastman School of Music, and the University of Michigan. https://reedcriddle.webs.com/

Jared Cassedy is the current band director at Lexington High School in Massachusetts, after teaching in New Hampshire for many years. He was the 2015 recipient of the Grammy Music Educator of the Year award and offers some great perspective for all band directors. Topics: Jared's background growing up in New Hampshire, his education and training and his early career. Winning the Grammy Music Educator of the Year Award and being locked in a room with Kanye and Kim. Advice for band directors of all ages about the value of music education and some wisdom that he's learned during his career. Links: Jared Cassedy Giroux: The Grace in Being Biography: Jared Cassedy is currently the K-12 Performing Arts Coordinator for the Lexington Public School System in Lexington, Massachusetts where he supports, supervises, and evaluates the department’s teachers, curriculum and assessment development, budget, and performing arts programming.  Along with his administrative responsibilities he conducts the most advanced concert band at the high school, the LHS Wind Ensemble.  Jared is also the conductor of the Junior Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School and currently serves as Chair-Elect for the Massachusetts Music Educators Association: Northeastern District.  Previous to coming to Massachusetts,  he served as President-Elect for the New Hampshire Music Educators Association (NHMEA).  In 2015 Jared was the recipient of the prestigious GRAMMY Music Educator Award furnished by the GRAMMY Foundation and The Recording Academy having been selected out of a pool of almost 10,000 nominees nationwide.   Previous to his appointment in Lexington, Jared was the Director of K-12 Performing Arts for the Salem School District in Salem, NH and was the Director of K-12 Fine Arts for the Windham School District, in Windham, NH.  Jared began his teaching career in Windham, NH in 2005 first as the middle school band director and then was appointed as the first Director of Bands for the newly constructed Windham High School in 2009.  Jared’s continued collaboration with his students has enabled his ensembles to be selected to participate in a myriad of national performances and festivals including the National Band and Orchestra Festival at Carnegie Hall in NYC, the Festival of Gold at Orchestra Hall in Chicago, the NAfME Eastern Division Conference in Hartford, CT., and the Bands of America National Band Festival sponsored by Music for All and Yamaha in Indianapolis.  His ensembles were also selected to perform for the Mayor of Quebec City and the Governor of Montreal.  In 2011 the New Hampshire Band Directors Association honored Jared with the “Outstanding Young Band Director of the Year Award.”  He was also nominated for New Hampshire Teacher of the Year in 2014.  Jared has conducted a number of regional honor bands in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Connecticut, given a variety of lectures on leadership and best practices in teaching, and has participated in TEDx talking about his journey and philosophies through education.  He graduated Summa cum Laude from the University of New Hampshire – Durham where he received his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and has a Masters of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Educational Leadership from Southern New Hampshire University.  He is a member of NAfME, MMEA, NBA, and ASCD, and the prestigious Pi Lambda Theta Education Honors Society.

Listen to this episode to hear all of the ways Kaitlin Simonson has been creatively overcoming virtual learning as a barrier and engaging students in singing in new ways! Kaitlin Simonson teaches music at The Brearley School in Manhattan, and is the conductor of the Lux Mea Women’s Chorus. She relocated to New York four years ago after teaching choir at Canarelli Middle School in Las Vegas, NV. Under her direction, the six choirs performed throughout the southwest earning superior ratings at festivals and competitions. As an associate conductor for the National Children's Chorus in Manhattan, Kaitlin works with the junior division students ages 4-6, and 10-12. She is trained in the Kodàly Method, an experience based pedagogy method that efficiently instills excellent musicianship in singers of all ages. Kaitlin has been a guest conductor of honor choirs in Nevada and Arizona. Her rapport with students, and focus on the human connection through music make her rehearsals unforgettable. As a classically trained soprano, Kaitlin has performed as a soloist with the Southern Nevada Symphony Orchestra and the San Diego Pro Arte Voices. She is an experienced choral singer praised for her sight reading abilities, preparation and collegiality. Kaitlin holds a Masters Degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where she studied with Dr. Linda Lister. In addition, she holds a B.M.E. in Choral Music Education cum laude from Northern Arizona University where she studied with Dr. Edith Copley and Dr. Ryan Holder. Kaitlin has completed three years of coursework in the Kodàly Methodology with Susan Brumfield at Portland State University. She serves on the KONY board as a general member. She is a member of ACDA, OAKE, and NAfME. Choir Baton Host: Beth Philemon | Choir Baton Podcast Producer: Maggie HemedingerFor more information on Choir Baton please visit choirbaton.com and to follow us on Instagram @choirbaton @bethphilemon Music by: Scott HolmesTo join the Choir Baton Teaching Membership waiting list or for more information, go here.To receive the weekly Choir Baton Weekly Letter, sign-up here.

Dr. Andrea E. Brown was appointed the Associate Director of Bands at the University of Maryland in 2018. In this position, she conducts the University of Maryland Wind Ensemble and serves as the Director of Athletic Bands. Brown is formerly a member of the conducting faculty at the University of Michigan where she served as the assistant director of bands and was a faculty sponsor of a College of Engineering Multidisciplinary Design Project team researching conducting pedagogy technology. Previously Brown was the director of orchestra and assistant director of bands at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. She is a frequent guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator in the US, Europe, and Asia. Brown completed a DMA in instrumental conducting at UNC Greensboro where she was a student of John Locke and Kevin Geraldi. While at UNCG, she was both guest conductor and principal horn on UNCG Wind Ensemble's fireworks! and finish line! CDs released on the Equilibrium label. Brown has also had several rehearsal guides published in the popular GIA Publications series, "Teaching Music Through Performance in Band" and has presented at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Music For All Summer Symposium, the Yamaha Bläserklasse in Schlitz, Germany, the International Computer Music Conference in Ljubljana, Slovenia, the College Music Society International Conference in Sydney, Australia, and multiple times at the College Band Directors National Association National Conference. A proponent of inclusion and equity issues in the music profession, Brown is a frequent guest speaker on these topics. She currently serves on the CBDNA Diversity Committee and is a member of the Drum Corps International Women’s In Step Committee. Brown is the founder of “Women Rising to the Podium”- an online group of over 3600 members supporting and celebrating women band directors. Additionally, she also serves the chair of the Sigma Alpha Iota Women’s Music Fraternity Graduate Conducting Grant and an advisor of the SAI chapter at the University of Maryland. Brown previously served on the brass and conducting instructional staff of the DCI World Champion Phantom Regiment (2004 – 2017). Other marching organizations she has instructed include the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, Carolina Crown, and Spirit of Atlanta. Brown will serve a music judge for DCI for the 2021 season. As a performer, Brown was a member of the AA Brass Quintet, which won the International Brass Quintet Competition hosted by Fred Mills at the University of Georgia. She performed with the horn sections of the Boston Brass All-Stars Big Band, North Carolina Symphony, Winston-Salem Symphony, and the Brevard Music Center Orchestra. Brown has studied brass performance and pedagogy with Abigail Pack, J.D. Shaw, Jack Masarie, Freddy Martin, Dottie Bennett, Randy Kohlenberg, Richard Steffen, and Ed Bach. Originally from Milan, Tennessee, she is a graduate of Austin Peay State University and earned a master of music degree in horn performance and a master of music education degree with a cognate in instrumental conducting from UNCG. Prior to her position at Georgia Tech, Brown was the assistant director of bands at Austin Peay State University and taught public school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Dallas, Texas. She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Pi Kappa Lambda, NAfME, and CBDNA. She was awarded the Rose of Honor as a member of Sigma Alpha Iota Women's Music Fraternity and is an honorary member of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message

This is a long awaited interview with my dear friend and colleague, Darrick King. A native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Darrick King began his tenure as Director of Choral Activities at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School - University Connections: School of Design, Arts, & Engineering in July of 2016. Darrick earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Winston-Salem State University (2010) and holds a Master of Arts in Choral Conducting from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania (2015). While at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) he served as a student conductor and accompanist for Schola Cantorum, the all-male performing ensemble. WSSU provided him with the opportunity to travel, perform, and record with the Dvorak Symphony in Prague, Czech Republic, the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra, as well as the New England Symphony Orchestra at Carnegie Hall. Upon graduation, he taught in Prince George’s County, Maryland as well as Rockingham County, North Carolina. Several students who have studied under Mr. King have pursued careers in Music Education.While serving as a Graduate Assistant in the Music Department at Mansfield University, he had the opportunity to conduct the Mansfield University Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Festival Chorus, Women’s Chorale, and Men’s Chorale. Darrick is a member of ACDA, NAfME, NCMEA, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America, Inc., and briefly served on the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Public Art Commission. Mr. King also serves as Music Director at Windborne United Methodist Church in North Raleigh and as Choral Director of the new African American Choral Ensemble at North Carolina State University.Join us as we have both the hard and the fun conversations regarding equity, access, race, and friendship in our classroom. Click here for information on the Choir Baton Teaching Membership... doors close August 30 in order to focus on the needs of the membership holders, don't miss your chance to join and receive valuable teaching material, resources, and support.Choir Baton Host: Beth Philemon | Choir Baton Podcast Producer: Maggie HemedingerFor more information on Choir Baton please visit choirbaton.com and to follow us on Instagram @choirbaton@bethphilemonMusic by: Scott HolmesTo join the Choir Baton Teaching Membership or for more information, go here.To receive the weekly Choir Baton Weekly Letter, sign-up here.

Join Dylan as he explores some of the problems we face as music educators in this new age of COVID-19. Most importantly, we'll be discussing solutions and mindsets to consider, hopefully giving you a little more hope heading into the Fall. We've got this, Bandies! In celebration of Pride Month, we feature Omar Thomas’s, A Mother of a Revolution!Help Support the Band Room Podcast by Becoming a Patron Through Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/bandroompodBRP Storehttp://www.bandroompod.com/storeMusic used in this episodeA Mother of a Revolution! by Omar ThomasHodgson Wind EnsembleCynthia Johnston Turner, ConductorMore Cowbell!!! by ​Scott. McAllister Arizona State University Wind EnsembleJason Caslor, ConductorEpisode LinksCBDNA COVID-19 Response Committee Report https://www.cbdna.org/covid19/OMEA Framework for Music Classes during COVID-19 https://www.omea.on.ca/covid19/Fall 2020 Guidance for Music Education from NFHS and NAfME https://nafme.org/my-classroom/fall-2020-guidance-music-education-from-nfhs-nafme/?fbclid=IwAR1AKF8KEIxhdy0hKLGnqSi_d1Dhy1IsC8gDzGz5k8iuZEazM_ZuNztF41AIndependent Chamber Music Projects: Tips for Orchestra Directorshttps://nafme.org/independent-chamber-music-projects-tips-for-orchestra-directors/​Full Assessment of the COVID Risk of Playing Wind Instrumentshttps://slippedisc.com/2020/06/a-full-assessment-of-the-covid-risk-of-playing-wind-instruments/?fbclid=IwAR1RiMP--uaX2akEludzVTtzfGIa_XLDQop-XXVc2ZFhWPYcJSJr790UMnMCreative Repertoire Initiative https://www.creativerepertoire.com/ FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/creativerepertoire/LoLa – Low Latency AV Streaming Systemhttps://lola.conts.it/Note Flighthttps://www.noteflight.com/Musescorehttps://musescore.org/enMore Notation Software Ideas Found Herehttps://www.toptenreviews.com/best-music-notation-softwareSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/bandroompod)

What is the definition of “advocacy?” How does “Big ‘A’ Advocacy” and “Little ‘a’ advocacy” differ? Who advocates for music? How do we advocate? What do I need to do to advocate for my program? This conversation with professor/author Dr. Lynn Brinckmeyer unpacks all of these questions and offers ideas for how we all can get active advocating. The best part - you’re already doing it! Dr. Brinckmeyer talks about why she wrote the book, “Advocate for Music!” and what ideas and techniques she recommends us all to use right now. We hope you leave this episode inspired, motivated, and excited — and if you need help, we are here for you! Check out all these links below. Links from Episode: Bio for Dr. Lynn Brinckmeyer - https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/9780190219154/author/ Link to the book - https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/9780190219154/book/ Using companion site - https://global.oup.com/us/advocateformusic Link to “What we CAN do Webinar” - https://youtu.be/lhXpCQlpE3M Link to send “letter” to congress - https://www.votervoice.net/NAFME/campaigns/73881/respond ACDA Advocacy and Collaboration Committee Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1331428610259287/ Email Dr. Brinckmeyer - LBrinckmeyer@txstate.edu *Show music originally written by Mr. Todd Monsell **Show photography provided by Dr. Dan Biggerstaff

Raise your baton, ready your highlighters and pens, and don’t forget to grab that score as Dr. Payne and Eric continue our month long Conducting Bootcamp! Dr. Onsby Rose from Dordt University joins us this week to share his unique perspective as a Composer and a Conductor. Dr. Onsby C. Rose is currently the Director of Instrumental Studies and Associate Professor of Music at Dordt University. In this position, he conducts the premiere instrumental ensemble, the Dordt University Wind Symphony, in addition to conducting the Dordt Campus-Community Band, and guiding all aspects of the Dordt Instrumental Ensembles and Instrumental Music Education programs. He is also the General Manager & Executive Director of the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra and has accepted an appointment as the Principal conductor of the orchestra beginning in the 2020-21 season. Prior to Dr. Rose's arrival in northwest Iowa, he attended the University of South Carolina as a music education major and in 1997 he was accepted as a trombonist for the U.S. Marine Corps fleet bands. During his 11-year Marine Corps career he served as a trombonist and conductor with bands in Albany, GA and New Orleans, LA as well as on staff at the Armed Forces School of Music in Norfolk, VA. He also served for two years as a baritone bugler with "The Commandant's Own" U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps in Washington, D.C. Dr. Rose completed his Bachelor of Music at East Tennessee State University in 2005. In 2007 Onsby was honorably discharged from the USMC. He then freelanced as a trombonist and worked as a railroad freight conductor in the eastern U.S., before returning to music education in 2012 as Director of Bands at Hampton HS and MS in Carter County, TN. In 2016, Dr. Rose completed his Master of Music in conducting at Appalachian State University. Immediately following he completed his in D.M.A. in conducting at The Ohio State University where he studied with Dr. Russel C. Mikkelson. Dr. Rose has studied conducting with Russel C. Mikkelson, John Ross, and Kevin Richardson with additional conducting studies with Jerry Junkin, Kevin Sedatole, Frank Battisti, Charles Peltz, Eugene Corporon, Donald McKinney, and Steven Peterson. Dr. Rose's outside academic pursuits encompass writing and music composition. Having studied with the late Dr. David Maslanka, Dr. Rose's musical compositions have been performed by many of the premiere military bands in Washington D.C., the Wheaton Municipal Band, numerous college and high school bands in the United States, regional orchestras, as well as internationally in Australia, Japan, Guam, and Germany. Although Onsby views himself primarily as a teacher and conductor, he thanks God for the gift of composition. Onsby and his wife Jessica live in Sioux Center, Iowa with four of their five boys, Timothy, Caleb, Elijah and Colin. Dr. Rose is a member of numerous professional organizations to include the CBDNA, WASBE, NAfME, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma, and the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. However, he holds closest to his heart the title of United States Marine. (bio courtesy of dordt.edu)Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/notyourfortepodcast)

In this special edition of Directors Circle, I catch up with Scott Sheehan on the open election for the National Association for Music Education. Scott discusses the topics up for election as well as being a candidate for the 2020-2022 National President-Elect. If you are a NAfME member, make sure to vote by February 12th!

Show Notes: Kathy's Email: kliperote@esm.rochester.edu Jump Right In Series Gordon Institute for Music Learning Theory Website Kathy Liperote is Assistant Professor of Music Education at the Eastman School of Music, where she teaches methods classes, observes student teachers, and supervises graduate teaching assistants. Her teaching and research focus on the music learning process, connecting aural skills to instrumental performance, and developing musicianship skills for elementary and secondary level teaching. Dr. Liperote has presented at state and regional NAfME conferences, and conducted professional development workshops most recently at Temple University, Baldwin Wallace University, and the Fort Worth Independent School District. She is also on the Instrumental Certification Faculty for the Gordon Institute for Music Learning. Prior to receiving the PhD in Music Education from the Eastman School, Dr. Liperote taught instrumental music for 15 years in the Baldwinsville and West Genesee School Districts in Central New York State. She is a graduate of the Crane School of Music and Syracuse University.   Afternoon Ti Links: Blog: https://afternoonti.blogspot.com Instagram: @highafternoonti   Intro/Outro Music Our Big Adventure by Scott Holmes www.scottholmesmusic.com  

In the episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Todd Stefan from Wexford (a.k.a Pittsburgh), PA. Todd oversees a large high school band program in the North Allegheny School District that has featured ensembles at PMEA state conferences, NAfME All-Eastern conferences, and the inaugural parade for Barack Obama’s presidency. In this interview, we chat about a wide variety of topics including administrative tasks involved with a large music program, staying mentally healthy with the stresses of the profession, and quotes from the “Rocky” movie franchise! Topics include: (04:28) Todd talks about his life and professional background and his band program at North Allegheny Senior High School (20:57) Building relationships with students in a large program (25:00) Defining excellence in a music program (31:22) Staying mentally healthy as a music educator (54:28) Favorite rehearsal tactics (56:09) Why do we teach music?  (59:47) Todd discusses leaders that have made an impact on his life  (1:04:15) Advice for music educators   Links:  Todd’s NASHS faculty page: https://www.northallegheny.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=8111 2019 NASHS Winter Concert: https://youtu.be/gO9uwjl0Ybw 2019 NASD Tiger Marching Band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbp6KOBp2tw A 2016 interview featuring Todd in “The Instrumentalist” magazine: https://www.tarleton.edu/band/documents/2016september.pdf   Bio:  Mr.Stefan is the Director of Bands at North Allegheny High School.  He earned a Bachelor of Music Education, Percussion Applied from the Dana School of Music at Youngstown State University (YSU).  Prior to his current position at North Allegheny, Mr. Stefan was the Director of Bands at Thomas Jefferson High School in Jefferson Hills, PA, Director of Bands at Cumberland Valley High School in Mechanicsburg, PA, Director of Bands at Sharpsville Area High School in Sharpsville, PA, and served on the faculty at Grove City College in Grove City, PA as a part-time applied Percussion Instructor.  At North Allegheny, Mr.Stefan teaches the Senior High School Honors Wind Ensemble, the Senior High School Symphonic Band, the Senior High School Concert Band, the Intermediate High School Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensembles 1 and 4, and the North Allegheny High School "Tiger" Marching Band. Mr. Stefan has studied percussion with Mr. Joseph Parlink and conducting with Dr. Stephen Gage.  Mr.Stefan's bands have all been judged excellent and superior and have been awarded numerous first place trophies and best overall band awards at festivals and parades including, the MasterCard Alamo Bowl halftime show and band competition in San Antonio, TX, the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Parade and band competitions in Atlanta, GA, the North American Music Festivals in Virginia Beach, VA, Festival Disney in Orlando, FL, the Windy City Classic in Chicago,IL, and Festivals of Music in Myrtle Beach, SC, Chicago, IL, Virginia Beach, VA, Cincinnati, OH, and Nashville, TN, Atlanta, GA. The Senior High School Honors Wind Ensemble has appeared in Downbeat Magazine twice; in 2008 and 2010 for winning the Best Overall High School Classical Group in the 31st and 33rd Annual Student Music Awards. The band has also appeared at the 2009 PMEA All-State Conference in Valley Forge, PA, at the 2012 PMEA All-State Conference in Lancaster, PA, and the 2015 PMEA All-State Conference in Hershey, PA. Both the Honors Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble I were selected to perform at the MENC All-Eastern Division Conference in Baltimore Maryland in 2011 and Jazz Ensemble I was selected to perform at the 2017 NAfME All-Eastern Division Conference held in Atlantic City. The “Tiger”Marching Band has appeared in the Disney Spectro-Magic New Year's Eve Parade and the Disney Dreams Come True Parade in the Magic Kingdom of Walt Disney World,has been awarded the Jack Shea President's trophy for “Best Overall Band” in the City of Pittsburgh Labor Day Parade for the past fifteen years, and has been winners of the Allegheny County trophy for the “Best Overall Band” in the City of Pittsburgh Veteran's Day Parade since 2003. In February of 2006 the Marching Band was honored to be the lead band in the Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl XL Victory Parade. The band also was invited to perform in the 2009, 2016, and 2017 Pittsburgh Penguins Stanley Cup Championship Parades. The 2009 Marching Band was also selected and honored to perform in the 56th Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington D.C. In 2019 the Marching Band performed a pre-show at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Finally the band was awarded the 2014 and 2018 Basil Caumissar Grand Champion Award; given to the Grand Champion of the Kentucky Derby Pegasus Parade. Mr.Stefan in an active member of NAfME, PMEA, The National Band Association (NBA),The Percussive Arts Society (PAS).  Mr.Stefan is a proud resident of the North Allegheny School District residing in Wexford, PA with his son Tyler.    

Why I am running for the NAfME NC President position.

Happy end of the school year/pre-Midwest Clinic! Matt Bufis and I discuss his journey to Illinois, adapting a program to the current needs of students, repertoire selection, and work-life balance. Musical selections featured in this episode include March for the Sultan Abdul Madjid by Rossini and After the Thunderer by Hearshen. Both selections are performed by the Evanston Township High School Wind Symphony.FULL BIOMatthew P. Bufis joined the music faculty at Evanston Township High School in June of 2012 and was later named Director of Bands in June of 2016. Mr. Bufis leads the Wildkit Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Symphony, teaches Guitar classes, and is the instrumental sponsor for the YAMO pit orchestra – the musical accompaniment to a student written and directed theatre production at ETHS. Under his direction, the ETHS Wind Symphony has risen to new levels of distinction, with multiple invite performances at the University of Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival and a 2018 Illinois Music Educators Conference performance, both of which are first-time honors for the program. The Wildkit Marching Band also continues an upward trajectory, with a seventy percent enrollment growth rate and steady progress in scores and placements at competitions over the last five seasons. Mr. Bufis is actively involved in activities that enhance learning at ETHS, serving on the Disciplinary Literacy, Teacher Evaluation, School Day (scheduling), and ETHS Foundation committees as well as maintaining his role as Lead Teacher for Fine Arts through which he organizes events, maintains the facility and equipment, plans professional development opportunities, and facilitates the music honors program.Prior to his appointment at ETHS, Mr. Bufis completed two successful tenures at Westmont High School in Illinois and Great Mills High School in Maryland, where he is responsible for leading both programs to distinction. Ensembles under his direction performed at the Maryland State High School Band Festival and the Illinois Superstate Band Festival many times. Mr. Bufis is responsible for pioneering artist-in-residency programs at each of his former posts, collaborating with guest performers and conductors – most notably Ronald Romm (The Canadian Brass), Thomas Jöstlein (St. Louis Symphony), and composer Eric Ewazen (Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra – wind ensemble transcription premiere 2006). The Great Mills Wind Ensemble also performed annually at the Maryland Day ceremony in historic St. Mary's City, including a performance attended by Governor Robert Ehrlich.A native of New Jersey, he holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree from Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York and a Master in Music Education degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is currently completing coursework for a Master in Principal Preparation at Concordia University in Chicago. Mr. Bufis studied conducting with Stephen G. Peterson, James F. Keene, Joseph Manfredo, and Donald Schleicher and has pursued additional training through conducting symposiums lead by Mallory Thompson, John Whitwell, Jamie Nix, H. Robert Reynolds, and Allan McMurray. He studied euphonium, his primary instrument, with David Unland, Mark Moore, and Kenneth Steinsultz.Mr. Bufis is an active guest lecturer on the topics of leadership and management, curriculum design, music teacher evaluation, music technology, and music education advocacy, presenting his work in these areas at state and national conferences and universities. He is also an active clinician and adjudicator, working with bands of all ages and ability levels. He has served as a leadership consultant for bands and sports teams on the East Coast and throughout the Midwest working with students, coaches, and teachers. Mr. Bufis has received many National Band Association Citations of Excellence in recognition of the Westmont and Evanston Township High School Band performances at the Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival and has been nominated for inclusion in various “Who's Who” publications since 2004. He is an active member of ILMEA, NAfME, Phi Beta Mu, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Mr. Bufis is an Eagle Scout of Troop 76 in Ringwood, New Jersey and garnered a varsity letter in collegiate men's swimming for his three years as an Ithaca College Bomber.

Dr. Blair Williams (PhD, The Ohio State University, MM, Kansas State University, BME, Baylor University) is an Assistant Professor of String Music Education in the School of Music at Texas Tech University. Her duties at Texas Tech include supervising string student teachers, teaching courses in string music education, instruction in instrumental/orchestral conducting, and directing the Texas Tech University String Project. During the summers, Dr. Williams is active with the TTU Summer Master of Music Education program, the TTU Band and Orchestra Camp Academy for beginning students, and the TTU Band and Orchestra Camp. Additionally, she serves on the editorial board for American String Teacher, on the National String Project Consortium Board, on the ASTA Collegiate Committee, as a Member-at-Large for NAfME-Texas, as the TMEA Region 16 College Chair, and as an advisor to the Epsilon Pi chapter of Mu Phi Epsilon and the TTU Student Chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Dr. Williams has presented clinics regionally and nationally including invited sessions at the National Association for Music Education National In-Service Conference, the annual American String Teachers Association conference, the Ohio State String Teacher Workshop, Texas Music Educators Association, and Colorado Music Educators Association. Her research interests include: rural string music education, music teacher education, secondary music teaching, and viola. She has been published in The American String Teacher and SmartMusic. Additional conducting engagements have included: youth, regional, and all-city ensembles in Kansas, Texas, Ohio, and Oregon; Graduate Conductor/Section Coach-Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras, Chamber Strings; Graduate Conductor-Kansas State Orchestra; Assistant Director/Administrator of the Gold Orchestra (Manhattan, KS) including an invited performance at The Midwest Clinic in 2010; and Associate Director/String Coordinator of the Waco Symphony Youth Orchestra. After earning her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baylor, Dr. Williams served as Director of Orchestras and the Associate Director of Orchestras in Midway ISD, Waco, TX teaching grades 5-12. While teaching in Texas, Dr. Williams' ensembles (string and full) consistently received superior ratings and sweepstakes awards at UIL Solo and Ensemble, UIL Large Group Contest, and other festivals. In 2009, she founded the Midway High School chapter of Texas Future Music Educators with 20 students. Dr. Williams also continues to enjoy working with public school students as a guest adjudicator, clinician, and conductor. She is a member of ASTA, NAfME, TMEA, Pi Kappa Lambda, CMS, and Mu Phi Epsilon. --- 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

I recorded this episode while attending the National Association for Music Education conference in November, and the best part was getting to meet so many people! I met music educators from across the country. I met parents of all national honor ensemble students. I reconnected with friends I haven't seen in months. I heard musical performances that made me cry. And I spoke to attendees about their conference experience.

Performing Arts news and events from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)Indiana State School Music Association (1:09 - 1:32)NAfME Conference and Tri-M Chapters (1:35 - 2:11)Music Adjudication Course (2:15 - 3:35)Mike Plunkett - Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (3:40 - 22:40)NFHS Website - Speech and Music Pages (23:50 - 24:30)Check out the NFHS website: https://www.nfhs.org/articles/the-stage-official-performing-arts-podcast-of-the-nfhs/

Cynthia Wagoner taught middle school and high school band for 27 years in Indiana before going back to school and becoming a music education professor at East Carolina University. Topics: Cynthia’s background growing up in Terra Haute, Indiana in a musical family and the story of how she became and oboe player involved in both orchestra and band. The importance of mentors and some of the important teachers in Cindy’s life and the lessons that she learned from them. Her experience as a young female band director in the early 1980’s and some of the topics she has to discuss with her female music education students to help prepare them for entering the profession. Cindy’s duties as an Associate Professor of Music Education at East Carolina University and some of the lessons she would like to pass on from observing student teachers. An extended discussion of teaching beginners and teaching sound to sight in both homogeneous and heterogeneous classes. Seven words or less. Links: Cynthia Wagoner Shostakovich: Festive Overture Grainger: Lincolnshire Posy Biography: Dr. Cindy Wagoner is an Associate Professor of Music Education at East Carolina University, specializing in instrumental music instruction and pre-service music teacher education. Her regional and international research presentations focus on music teacher identity, mentoring new teachers, and pedagogy. Her publications appear in Teaching Music Through Performance in Jazz, Teaching Music, Psychology of Music, Research Issues in Music Education, Journal of Music Teacher Education, and several book chapters. Her heart still lies in the teaching of music through instrumental performance, and she is dedicated to serving the music education community in her current position at ECU. Wagoner holds a B.S. and M.S. from Indiana State University and spent 27 years in Indiana teaching high school and middle school instrumental music, known for having a large and successful program across marching, concert, small ensemble, and jazz events. Graduating from the University of Carolina Greensboro with a Ph.D. in Music Education, she was honored for her teaching with the Graduate Teaching Assistant Award in 2009. As an assistant professor at East Carolina since 2011, she was selected as a finalist for a 2015-16 ECU Alumni Award for excellence in teaching, 2017-18 Nominee for Five Year Award, and was awarded the ECU Alumni Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2019. She was also semi-finalist for the 2017 Music & Arts Educator of the Year. Wagoner continues to be active as a guest conductor and adjudicator across the south and Midwest and holds membership in Society for Music Teacher Education, Society for Music Perception and Cognition (SMPC), International Society for Music Education (ISME), NAfME, and NCMEA. ---- 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! 

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Len Lavelle from Pittsburgh, PA. If you are from PA, you are sure to be familiar with Len’s work with his bands at North Hills High School. If you are not from the Keystone State, make sure to check out this episode featuring one of the best in the business as he shares ideas on inspiration, teaching, and music education.    Topics include: (03:25) Len talks about his professional background  (08:55 ) Len stalks about why he decided to stay in band after once being a middle school student who wanted to quit.  (10:30) Len talks about his program and the music department in the North Hills School District. (13:58) Selecting repertoire for students. (22:23) Developing ensemble foundations. (27:36) Ways to engage students to understand the “Why” of what we do. (34:20) Important concepts of building an ensemble sound. (41:45) Honoring traditions while making modifications for today’s students. (55:50) Leaders who inspired Len in his personal and professional lives. (1:01:33) Three words to describe an outstanding leader of a comprehensive music program. (1:04:15) Advice for music educators. (1:08:10) Being remembered as a leader for your music program. Links:  North Hills Instrumental Music Website: http://www.nhipa.org/ Article on North Hills Wind Ensemble playing at 2020 Music For All National Conference: https://patch.com/pennsylvania/northhills/north-hills-wind-ensemble-receives-national-honor North Hills Wind Ensemble performing “The Earth” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSP0ZbW9F-g 2019 North Hills MArching Band performing their halftime show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sviptB5rPtc   Bio:  Len Lavelle is the high school director of bands and and k-12 music curriculum leader for the  North Hills School District in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Under his leadership, the North Hills High School Band an award winning program features four concert bands, two jazz bands, and a 225 member marching band. Being well known for musical excellence, Len has featured his students at several major conferences including the PMEA All state conference and the NAFME all-eastern conference.  

Wendy Higdon is the award winning Director of Bands at Creekside Middle School in Carmel, Indiana. Under her baton the Wind Symphony at Creekside has performed at numerous venues, including the Midwest Clinic. Wendy is also the creator and owner of the music education website “On and Off the Podium." Topics: Wendy’s background as a musician and her influences as a teacher. Some of the structures and procedures that Wendy uses in her classroom to achieve success and the importance of being yourself. Tips for recruitment and retention and a conversation about assessment and using “Band Karate.” The organization of the Creekside Middle School band program. Links: Wendy Higdon On and Off the Podium Musical Mastery Essential Musicianship for Band Grainger: Irish Tune Biography: Wendy Higdon is the Director of Bands and Performing Arts Department Chair at Creekside Middle School in Carmel, Indiana.  Under her direction, the Creekside Wind Symphony was honored to perform at The Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in 2013.  The Creekside Wind Symphony has also been a featured performing ensemble at the Indiana Music Education Association Conference as well as serving as a rehearsal clinic band at the Midwest Clinic and at the Indiana Music Education Association Conference.    Ms. Higdon has served as an adjudicator, clinician, guest conductor and guest speaker around the country.  In 2013, she received the “Fifty Directors Who Make a Difference” Award from School Band and Orchestra Magazine.  Her articles have appeared in The Instrumentalist magazine, as well as being published by NAfME, D'Addario Education Collective, Music for All, and SmartMusic, among others.  She regularly speaks about important topics in music education at state and regional conferences, and has recently presented sessions at several national conferences including The Midwest Clinic, the National Association of School Music Dealers Conference, and the Australian National Band and Orchestra, where she was a keynote presenter. Ms. Higdon earned her degree in music education from Ball State University Honors College, graduating summa cum laude.  She also holds two Masters degrees from Butler University, one in clarinet performance and the second in education administration. She is a member of Phi Beta Mu International, Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society, the National Association for Music Education, the Indiana Music Education Association and the Indiana Bandmasters Association.  

John Denis is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at Texas State University. He has 8 years of teaching experience as a high school and middle school band director in Texas and is the host of the Program Notes: The Beginning Band Director Podcast. Topics: John’s background growing up West of Fort Worth and thoughts about why he became a teacher. Some advice for young teachers who might be discouraged or burnt out in their first years of teaching. The music education program at Texas State University. Best practices for classroom management and a serious in-depth discussion of teaching beginning band. Finding a music teaching job in Texas. Links: John Denis Program Notes: The Beginning Band Director Podcast For Clarinets Only by Marilyn Mattei Intelligent Music Teaching by Robert A. Duke Bocal Majority Method Books Teaching Rhythm Logically by Darcy Vogt Williams Grainger: Molly on the Shore Biography: John Denis, Assistant Professor of Music at Texas State University, has 8 years of Texas band directing experience working with middle school and high school students. He recently completed a PhD degree at the University of North Texas and is a member of the Texas Music Educators Association, the Texas Music Adjudicator's Association, NAfME, Pi Kappa Lambda, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Dr. Denis has been active as a clinician in North Texas and Oregon. He has also presented at the TMEA Convention, California All-State Music Education Conference, Maryland Music Educators February Conference, the NAfME Music Research and Teacher Education National Conference, ISME World Conference, and NAfME Teacher In-service Conference.

Darla Meek shares how we can implement the Orff approach with our children's church choirs.  You'll hear how to use scripture and hymns as a guide to creating movement, speech, instrumental, and vocal pieces. Darla Meek is the Music Education Coordinator and Lecturer at Texas A&M University in Commerce.  She teaches undergraduate and graduate elementary music education classes and supervises student teachers.  She earned her Bachelor of Music Education from Dallas Baptist University and her Master of Music from Southern Methodist University.  Darla also earned a Performer’s Certificate from the Performing Artist’s Musical Theatre Conservatory in Dallas. She is currently working toward her Doctor of Education in Supervision, Curriculum, and Instruction.   Darla is certified in Kodaly and Orff Schulwerk and serves as a teacher trainer for the American Orff Schulwerk Association in both Basic Pedagogy Level I and Movement for Orff Levels Courses.  She has served as assistant conductor for the Mesquite Children’s Chorus and the Children’s Chorus of Collin County and has served as Children’s Choir Coordinator for 3 churches in the Dallas area.   Darla has written children’s choir curricula for LIfeway Christian Resources and Celebrating Grace Inc.  Her recorder method books Journey Around the Globe with Recorder and Flight 2: Another Journey Around the Globe With Recorder were published by Sweet Pipes, Inc.  Her resource for church musicians All Things Bright and Beautiful is available through Chorister’s Guild.   She is a member of AOSA, OAKE, KET, TCDA, TMEA, Dalcroze Society of America, the College Music Society, and NAfME.  She is a past President of the North Texas Chapter of AOSA. Darla is married to Keith Meek and has two children - Gregory and Aubrey. Darla's website:  www.darlameek.com  All Things Bright and Beautiful: https://www.choristersguild.org/store/cgbk74-all-things-bright-and-beautiful/7646/ TAMUC website:   http://www.tamuc.edu/academics/colleges/humanitiesSocialSciencesArts/departments/music/facultyStaff/darlaMeek.aspx   Afternoon Ti: Instagram- @highafternoonti Blog- https://afternoonti.blogspot.com/   Intro/Outro Music: Our Big Adventure by Scott Holmes www.scottholmesmusic.com

Darla Meek shares about the Kodaly and Orff approaches as well as how we can use recorders with our students. Darla Meek is the Music Education Coordinator and Lecturer at Texas A&M University in Commerce.  She teaches undergraduate and graduate elementary music education classes and supervises student teachers.  She earned her Bachelor of Music Education from Dallas Baptist University and her Master of Music from Southern Methodist University.  Darla also earned a Performer’s Certificate from the Performing Artist’s Musical Theatre Conservatory in Dallas. She is currently working toward her Doctor of Education in Supervision, Curriculum, and Instruction.   Darla is certified in Kodaly and Orff Schulwerk and serves as a teacher trainer for the American Orff Schulwerk Association in both Basic Pedagogy Level I and Movement for Orff Levels Courses.  She has served as assistant conductor for the Mesquite Children’s Chorus and the Children’s Chorus of Collin County and has served as Children’s Choir Coordinator for 3 churches in the Dallas area.   Darla has written children’s choir curricula for LIfeway Christian Resources and Celebrating Grace Inc.  Her recorder method books Journey Around the Globe with Recorder and Flight 2: Another Journey Around the Globe With Recorder were published by Sweet Pipes, Inc.  Her resource for church musicians All Things Bright and Beautiful is available through Chorister’s Guild.   She is a member of AOSA, OAKE, KET, TCDA, TMEA, Dalcroze Society of America, the College Music Society, and NAfME.  She is a past President of the North Texas Chapter of AOSA. Darla is married to Keith Meek and has two children - Gregory and Aubrey. Darla's website:  www.darlameek.com  TAMUC website:   http://www.tamuc.edu/academics/colleges/humanitiesSocialSciencesArts/departments/music/facultyStaff/darlaMeek.aspx   Afternoon Ti: Instagram- @highafternoonti Blog- https://afternoonti.blogspot.com/   Intro/Outro Music: Our Big Adventure by Scott Holmes www.scottholmesmusic.com

Barbara Rubenstein was born on June 23 in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Littlestown High School where she was Valedictorian, Adams County's Junior Miss and winner of numerous Pennsylvania State Baton Twirling Championships. Barbara was musically trained at Ithaca College's School of Music with a degree in Music Education as a clarinet major. Her 34-year teaching career included positions as an instrumental music teacher and band/orchestra director in Dallas, Texas, Rochester, NY, and her last 30 years prior to retirement in Victor, New York. In addition to teaching concert, jazz, and marching band, adjudication preparation, and conducting musical productions, she was the Coordinator of the District Music Department and supervised student teachers for 25 years. Barbara is a member of NAFME, NYSSMA, and FMEA. She is a life member of Sigma Alpha Iota and an honorary member of Tri-M. From 2006-2011, she served on NYSSMA's Executive Council as Zone Representative of the Genesee Region, acting as a liaison between local teachers and the state council, and overseeing adjudication festivals and All-State concerts for nine counties. She and her husband, Todd, moved to Palm Beach County in 2013, and have three grown children. Locally, she has performed with the Royal Palm Beach Community Band where she served as Associate Conductor (2014-2016), and the New Gardens Band, acting as interim/substitute and guest conductor (2014-2017). In 2017, she assumed the position of Music Director of the Boynton Beach Gold Coast Band. www.goldcoastband.org/barb.html www.wijsf.org

Hear what Eric Woodall, the Producing Artistic Director of North Carolina Theatre, Betsy Ludwig, Executive Director of Arts Access, and Doug Kapp, a local actor who also happens to be legally blind have to say about disability representation on stage. Towards the end of the podcast, I also talk with George Yionoulis (aka DJGeoYio). George is a 10-year-old music maker and filmmaker. In fact, he composed the music heard in this episode. He also made a video about autism that has been viewed over one million times on YouTube.  About the Guests Eric Woodall is the Producing Artistic Director of North Carolina Theatre. In addition to his NC Theatre directorial credits including Gypsy, Mary Poppins, Jesus Christ Superstar, Steel Magnolias, Woodall has worked locally in the Triangle directing for companies like Theatre Raleigh and PlayMakers Repertory, as well as traveled the country putting his spin on shows like West Side Story, Big River, and On Golden Pond at Casa Mañana in Fort Worth, Texas and Amadeus at the Memphis Playhouse on the Square. Prior to joining NC Theatre full time in November as producing artistic director, he spent 16 years in New York City working as one of the top casting directors at Tara Rubin Casting. For more information visit: http://ericwoodall.com/ (http://ericwoodall.com/). Betsy Ludwig has been with Arts Access for eight years, originally hired as Program Director. She has a BA in Social Work from Salem College, an MS in Therapeutic Recreation from UNC-Chapel Hill and Course Work in Arts Administration from NYU. She has worked as a Social Worker, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Inclusion Specialist/Trainer, and Program Administrator for Group Homes, Day Programs, Hospitals, Public Schools and Community Non-Profits. For more information visit: https://artsaccessinc.org/ (https://artsaccessinc.org/). Doug Kapp was already active in Raleigh’s theatre community before he decided to earn a degree in theatre from UNCG in 2010. He has appeared in independent films, UNCSA student films, and in the feature film Patch Adams. He was most recently cast in Pippin at Raleigh Little Theater and will be performing at A Series of Fortunate Events on April 27th. His dream roles include someday playing The Wizard (Wicked/The Wizard of Oz), The Cowardly Lion (The Wizard of Oz), and King George (Hamilton). George Yionoulis (aka DJGeoYio) is a fifth grader who loves to make music and movies. Encouraged by his fourth-grade teacher, George and his parents (Lisa Jolley and Mike Yionoulis) created a video to explain his autism to his classmates. The video went viral and has been viewed over one million times on YouTube. He just submitted his most recent music composition Reh Vow Loo Shun to the NAFME Electronic Music Composition Competition. For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/georgeautism/ (DJGeoYio’s Facebook page). Connect with RDU on Stage Facebook – @rduonstage Twitter – @rduonstage Instagram – @rduonstage Web http://www.rduonstage.com/ (www.rduonstage.com) Support this podcast

Composer and arranger Matt Conaway is the associate director of the Purdue "All American" marching band with his original music and arrangements published by C.L. Barnhouse and Hal Leonard. Topics: Matt’s position at Purdue University. Matt’s musical background including his grandmother who played honky tonk piano. Ways that we can support the careers of aspiring young composers and conductors that find their way into our classrooms. Matt’s education and his teaching position in West Lafayette, Indiana and his move to Purdue University. Matt’s composing including the story of how he got started and his work with C.L. Barnhouse and Hal Leonard. Commissions and some thoughts on the new trend of crowdsourcing consortium commissions. Links: Matt Conaway Purdue University Bands and Orchestras Biography: Matthew R. Conaway was appointed to the Purdue faculty in August 2012 as an Assistant Professor, and was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure in July 2018. He serves as an associate director of the famed “All-American” Marching Band, directs the “Boiler Brass” Men’s Basketball Pep Band, and conducts the Purdue Symphonic Band and Varsity Band. He also serves as the department’s technology coordinator, and coordinates the Volunteer Management Team. He is responsible for coordinating marching band travel, and has organized trips around the Big Ten, as well as a significant performance experience in Medellín, Colombia in 2015. He has mentored many student organizations, previously serving as sponsor for the Beta Sigma chapter of Tau Beta Sigma, the Gamma Pi chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, the Band & Orchestra Technology Office, and the Purdue Musical LGBTQ+ Society. Conaway also serves the university as a member of the Purdue University Senate, and serves on both the Student Affairs Committee and the Advisory Committee on Equity. Prior to his appointment to Purdue’s faculty, Conaway served for ten years as the Director of Bands for the West Lafayette Community School Corporation, during which time the program received many state and national accolades for musical excellence. He brought back the Marching “Red Devil” Band, basketball pep band, jazz band, and symphony orchestra to the music department, and raised band program enrollment by over 200 students in grades 5-12. During his tenure, West Lafayette became regarded as one of the great small-school music programs in Indiana, with two state concert finals appearances and dozens of superior festival ratings. Under Conaway’s leadership, the NAMM Foundation recognized the West Lafayette Community School Corporation as one of the “Best Communities for Music Education in America” in 2006, 2010, 2011, and 2012. Conaway is an award-winning, internationally-known composer for concert bands, with over fifty original works currently in publication. His compositions range from very beginning through very advanced, based on his experience working with all levels of performers in grade 5-12, collegiate, and professional ensembles. He has received commissions from many schools and honor bands in the last five years. Conaway was honored to experience his Carnegie Hall debut in March 2016 with a world premiere performance by the Purdue Wind Ensemble. He is also an accomplished arranger, and has written for athletic bands at Indiana University, Purdue University, and many high schools and colleges throughout the country. Millions of people have heard Conaway’s arrangements at multiple festivals, bowl games, basketball tournaments, and other major sporting events since 1999. His compositions and arrangements are available globally through the C.L. Barnhouse Company and the Hal Leonard Corporation. After graduating from Woodhaven (MI) High School in 1997, Conaway attended Indiana University – Bloomington, where he studied arranging with David Woodley. He received his Bachelor of Music Education with Distinction in 2001, and earned a Masters of Music degree from the American Band College of Sam Houston State University in 2010. He is a member of NAfME, CBDNA, NBA, Indiana Music Educators Association, Indiana Bandmasters Association, and ASCAP. He is an honorary member of Tau Beta Sigma and Kappa Kappa Psi, and was recently inducted into the Gamma chapter of Phi Beta Mu. He is in demand as a clinician and adjudicator at concert and marching band festivals and competitions throughout the United States.

Lynn Brinckmeyer talks about her latest book Advocate For Music, as well as her career as an educator.

Lynn Brinckmeyer talks about her latest book Advocate For Music, as well as her career as an educator.

Ron Sikes has been a band director in Jefferson County Missouri for 19 years and a MMEA Past Jazz Vice President. In many ways, Ron embodies the growth mindset and in this episode he discusses his relentless pursuit of personal growth in all that he does. Topics: Ron’s background growing up and the winding road that he took to becoming a music teacher and music professional. Thoughts about jazz education, tips for teaching improvisation, and how those experiences led to Ron composing music for his own band and eventually those around him. The importance of taking private lessons on instruments that you don’t know well and advice for bartering your knowledge in exchange for those of another musician. Working with other composers, especially Gary Gackstatter (Episode 12) and the value that these collaborations bring to his students and the audience. Links: MLO Music Publications Jefferson R-VII School District Funky Butt Brass Band Missouri Music Education Symposium Wagner: Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral Elgar: Nimrod from the Enigma Variations Wagner: Overture to Rienzi Biography: Ron Sikes began teaching in the Jefferson R-VII School District (Festus, Missouri) in 2000. His responsibilities include 5th Grade Band, 6th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Jazz Band, High School Jazz/Salsa Band, and High School Band. In 2011, The Jefferson High School Concert Band was selected to perform at the Missouri Music Educators Association Convention. In 2013, he started conducting the Jefferson College Concert Band director. In addition to his many teaching responsibilities, Sikes maintains a busy schedule as a clinician, composer, percussionist, drum set artist, frottoirist, and jazz vibraphonist. As a composer, Sikes has written music for concert bands, jazz bands, and professional bands. His compositions have been performed all over the country. In 2009, Ron authored and self-published the beginning band method book, “Keys to Success.” As a performer, Ron performs with the Funky Butt Brass Band (drum set), Gumbohead (congas, timbales, frottoir), and Southside Creole Playboys (cajon/frottoir). Other playing credits include: Boudin Bros., Musica SLESA, Rhythm Section Road Show, Big Chief, All Roostered Up, Shane Maue, The Trophy Mules, Paul Winter, Eugene Friesen, Darol Anger, Barbara Higbie, Tommy Halloran, Stratus, Mama's Pride, Pat Liston, Danny Liston, Snarky Gargoyles, Thunder Biscuit Orchestra, Big Mike Aguirre and the Blu City All-Stars, Preston Hubbard, & Rockin' Jake. He has performed all over the country and recorded over 20 CD’s with various artists from all genres. Mr. Sikes earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1999 from University of MO-St. Louis. In 2008, he completed his Masters in Educational Administration from Missouri Baptist University. Ron has been influenced by some of the finest educators, including Mark Trautwein, Brad Madson, Dr. Claude Baker, Dr. William Richardson, Marvin Sparks, Jeff Hamilton, Sally Herman, Dennis Reis & Ray Hunt. Sikes’ professional affiliations include the MBA, Phi Beta Mu, NAfME, MOJAE, MMEA, and MSTA, and remains active as performer, teacher, and clinician throughout the area. Ron Sikes loves his titanium snare made by Dynamicx Drums and is endorsed by Lewi Custom Cajons and Vic Firth Sticks & Mallets.

Myra Rhoden is the director of bands at Fayette County High School in Georgia and founder of the Athena Music and Leadership Camp. Myra is the recipient of numerous teaching awards, including being named the 2018 NAfME Band Director of the Year. Topics Myra’s story of growing up in Tuskegee, Alabama in a family that valued the arts, and how her high school band director created an environment that encouraged the students to do things outside of the school. The inspiration behind Myra’s decision to become a music teacher rather than a math teacher and the lesson she took from her first job teaching beginners in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. “Don’t make excuses, figure out what you can do with what you have” and other advice for young teachers. Winning the NAfME 2018 “Band Director of the Year” and what she feels might be most responsible to her success at Fayette County High School. The genesis of the Athena Music and Leadership Camp and what it means for the students who go to the camp. Links: Myra Rhoden Myra Rhoden named 2018 Band Director of the Year Athena Music and Leadership Camp Tchaikovsky: March Slav (arr. for band) Biography: Dr. Myra Rhoden serves at the Director of Bands and Fine Arts Department Chairperson at Fayette County High School in Fayetteville, Georgia. Located approximately twenty miles south of downtown of Atlanta, the Fayette County High School Band program has performed at national and international venues and consists of a competitive marching band and winter guard, three concert bands, a jazz band, and several chamber ensembles. Recent invitational performances include the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) In-Service Conference, the Kennesaw State University Concert Band Festival, and honor band festivals at the University of Alabama, the University of South Carolina, and the University of Georgia. Her marching bands have been finalists at Bands of America Regional and Super-Regional Championships and have won numerous Grand Championships at area competitions. Dr. Rhoden has been awarded the National Band Association’s Citation of Excellence on four occasions, has been named STAR Teacher at FCHS, was named Teacher of the Year on two occasions, was selected for membership in the Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity, and was presented the 1995 Sallie Mae First Class Teacher Award, a national award given to one teacher in each state for an outstanding first year of teaching. She recently presented a clinic at the 2017 GMEA In-Service Conference and was named the National Band Director of the Year by the National Association for Music Education for the 2017-2018 school year. She is the founder of the Athena Music and Leadership Camp, a summer band and orchestra camp for middle and high school-aged girls that was created to promote musical excellence while emphasizing self-esteem and leadership skills, and the New Notes Band Camps, summer day camp programs for middle school musicians in the metropolitan Atlanta area. Before joining the faculty at Fayette County, Dr. Rhoden taught at the middle and high school levels in Alabama. A native of Tuskegee, Alabama, she received the Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Music Education from the University of Alabama and the Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Rhoden serves as a GMEA All-State Band Organizer and has served as the GMEA District VI Band Chairperson. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeastern United States (SEUS) Honor Band Clinic at Troy University, served on the Board of Directors for the Alabama Bandmasters Association, and is honored to be a clinician and adjudicator throughout the southeast. She resides in Fayetteville with her husband, Errol Jr., and son, Errol III.

On this episode, I sit down with Wendy Higdon. Wendy Higdon is the Director of Bands and Unified Arts Department Chair at Creekside Middle School in Carmel, IN.Sitting down with Wendy was a fun conversation. Her experiences include opening up a brand new school as a band director and fine arts administrator, performing at the Midwest Clinic, in her spare time, running the website www.onandoffthepodium.com. Her site provides thoughts on teaching band and supplies free resources for music teachers of all levels. I especially enjoyed hearing about the Midwest Clinic music selection process and Wendy's perspective as an administrator.I hope you enjoy this episode! Wendy's experiences and expertise should be heard by music teachers of all levels.FULL BIOWendy Higdon is the Director of Bands and Unified Arts Department Chair at Creekside Middle School in Carmel, IN. She began her career as Director of Bands at Lebanon Middle School (IN) in 1991 and came to Carmel Clay Schools in 1999 where she taught band at Carmel Middle School until the opening of Creekside in 2004.Under her direction, the Creekside Wind Symphony was honored to perform at The Midwest Clinic in December 2013. The Creekside Wind Symphony has also been a featured performing ensemble at the Indiana Music Education Association Conference as well as serving as a rehearsal clinic band at the 2013 Midwest Clinic and at the 2015 Indiana Music Education Association Conference.Mrs. Higdon has served as an adjudicator, clinician, guest conductor and guest speaker around the country. In 2013, she received the “Fifty Directors Who Make a Difference” Award from School Band and Orchestra Magazine. Her articles have appeared in The Instrumentalist magazine and Bandworld magazine, as well as being published by NAfME, D'Addario Education Collective, and SmartMusic, among others. She has been a frequent presenter at music education conferences including a 2016 presentation at The Midwest Clinic. In 2016 she was a featured conductor for the Music for All Summer Symposium's inaugural Middle School Concert Band Camp. She will be a keynote presenter at the Australian National Band and Orchestra Conference held in Brisbane in 2018.Mrs. Higdon earned her degree in music education from Ball State University Honors College, graduating summa cum laude. She also holds two masters degrees from Butler University, one in clarinet performance and the second in education administration.She is a member of Phi Beta Mu International, Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society, the National Association for Music Education, the Indiana Music Education Association and the Indiana Bandmasters Association.

An instrumental music educator at Patrick March Middle School in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, Chris Gleason was the 2017 Wisconsin Middle School Teacher of the Year, a finalist for the 2017 National Teacher of the Year and a semifinalist for the 2017 GRAMMY Music Educator Award. He joins the show to talk about his career, his commissioning program, and share some teaching wisdom. Topics: Growing up as the son of a band director, the lessons that he learned from his parents, and the story of applying for, and being selected as Wisconsin's "Teacher of the Year." The story of his high school band experience and the importance of the literature that we select as our curriculum. Anecdotes from some of the composers who Chris has commissioned. The value of commissioning new works and tips for educators to find funding. Chris' philosophy of "lighting fires" and his thoughts about what makes a good teacher including tips for young teachers and getting "beyond the notes." Links: Chris Gleason Erickson: Ballad Aire Ticheli: Portrait of a Clown Mackey: Lightning Field Shapiro: Rock Music Balmages: Sun Cycles Hazo: Blue and Green Music Chesnokov: Salvation is Created Biography: Chris Gleason is an instrumental music educator at Patrick Marsh Middle School in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin.  He is the 2017 Wisconsin Middle School Teacher of the Year, a finalist for the 2017 National Teacher of the Year and a semifinalist for the 2017 GRAMMY Music Educator Award. Chris earned his BME at UW-Eau Claire in 1997 and his Masters Degree from UW-LaCrosse in 2002. He has taught band in the East Troy School District and the LaCrosse School District. Mr. Gleason's bands have performed at the Milwaukee Art Museum, Wisconsin State Capitol Rotunda, the "New Wisconsin Promise Conference", and the 2006 and 2009 Wisconsin State Music Conferences. The Patrick Marsh Middle School Band has commissioned composers such as Samuel R. Hazo (Blue and Green Music -2009), Brian Balmages (Sun Cycles – 2012), Michael Sweeney (Particles - 2013), Erik Morales (One Giant Leap - 2014), John Mackey (Lightning Field – 2015), Alex Shapiro (Rock Music- 2016), Brian Balmages (Twittering Machine – 2017), Andrew Boysen Jr (TBA – 2018).  In 1992 Mr. Gleason was selected as the Wisconsin Governor’s Scholar to Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen, Michigan. Mr. Gleason has performed professionally at Disneyland, Valleyfair, and the Mall of America. He has been guest conductor of numerous camps and festivals including the Tarleton Invitational Band Festival (Texas), National Band Association –Wisconsin Chapter Junior High All-State Band, Tri-State Honors Band, UW-Milwaukee Honors Band, UW-Whitewater Band Camp and numerous regional honor bands across Wisconsin and Illinois. He is the past-chair of the Wisconsin Comprehensive Musicianship through Performance (CMP) Committee and the Wisconsin State Middle Level Honors Band.  Currently, he is chair of the Wisconsin State Middle Level Honors Project. He has taught CMP Workshops at VanderCook College of Music, the Los Angeles Unified School District in California, The NAfME National In-Service Conference, numerous school districts in the Midwest, and recently in Hong Kong. He has presented clinics at the Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin State Music Conventions. Mr. Gleason is the recent recipient of the Melvin F. Pontious Sparks in Music Education Award (2016), Michael G. George Distinguished Service Award (2016) and the Vi Miller Award for Excellence (2013) by Dane Arts and had a feature interview in the March 2015 Instrumentalist Magazine. Mr. Gleason is the founder and organizer of the Band Festival at the Kalahari in Wisconsin Dells that has to date inspired more than 23,500 young musicians. Mr. Gleason is a member of NBA, WMEA, and NAfME.   ​

We talk about resources for implementing the National Core Arts Standards in your curriculum. Olin was off galavanting around with OSU's basketball team for some reason. Recorded March 18, 2018

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.

The start of a new season! It's our first show of 2018 and we're kicking it off with NAFME's Band Director of the year for 2017, Emily McNeil! The show also includes new segment "What's going on in my classroom" and the ever popular "Rapid Fire" with Emily McNeil!

In this very special episode of the Music Ed Mentor Podcast we welcome our first GRAMMY winning guest! I'm excited to share my conversation with Melissa Salguero, who just became the GRAMMY Music Educator of the Year. Melissa and I became Facebook friends after the NAfME conference, and when I realized she won a GRAMMY, I knew I wanted to share her story with all of you. In this episode, Melissa describes how she got involved with music, why she became a teacher, and how she stays motivated.

Music selection is perhaps the most critical decision you make as a choir director. And making that decision can be completely overwhelming when you are looking for something you can successfully sing with 12 sopranos, 4 altos, and 2 basses. But music selection gives you the opportunity to create what Dr. Michael John Trotta calls a “culture of belonging,” where every voice has an important part. And there are resources out there who can help you find the perfect pieces to create that culture in your own choir. [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “Students know when you are trying to sell them crap.” -Michael John Trotta Show Notes: Creating a culture of belonging         Every voice is unique and important. Avoid assigning “hand me downs,” so that every member feel like they are contributing something significant. Composition as a response to the choir.         Often commissions are in response to a specific choir’s particular needs. Figure out what your needs are, and what you need in the music to make it work. Repertoire selection as a solution to engaging your choir                 Sing great music; not hard music...great music. Developmental appropriate repertoire Setting the stage for a lifetime of great music making What directors are looking for in repertoire                 Many directors have the same struggle: finding music for the arriving voice/middle school range. Music that sounds harder than it is, music that makes your choir sound great                 Look for the music that is appropriately, not overly challenging. Many great pieces are not difficult, but the are beautiful. BriLee Music / Carl Fischer Series, responding to the needs of teachers                 BriLee is an excellent source for middle schools, Carl Fisher for high school repertoire Contact Donald at Sheet Music Deals to set up a reading session for your district, and get some help finding exactly what you need for your choir. Bio: Michael John Trotta is one of the most “exciting and prominent new composers of choral music,” a sought-after conductor, and dynamic clinician. He brings an “intimate knowledge of the human voice,” a “rare sensitivity to the capabilities of a choral ensemble,” and years of experience as an inspiring educator to thousands of singers each year. His award-winning commissions are frequently performed at Carnegie Hall, at national conventions (ACDA, NAfME, AGO, TMEA), and his recordings are broadcast worldwide. Dr. Trotta and his wife Rachel divide their time between New York City and Bay Head, NJ where he works as a full time composer, conductor, and clinician with choirs throughout the world. He recently released an emerging choir series with BriLee/Carl Fischer Music. Resources/links Mentioned: Michael John Trotta, composer BriLee Music Carl Fisher Music Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast! Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals! Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!) My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!) WHILE YOU ARE THERE, PREORDER CHOIRS ARE HORRIBLE!