Member Spotlight
Member Spotlight
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We asked one of our members to share his journey, wisdom, and inspiration as a music educator. From learning to let go of control and empowering students, to celebrating those magical “aha” moments in rehearsal, their story is a reminder of why music education matters so deeply.Â
Here’s what he had to say about advice for first-year directors, memorable teaching moments, rehearsal strategies that made a difference, and the childhood inspiration that sparked a lifelong passion for band.
Read his insights below and join us in celebrating the heart of music education!Â
What advice would you give to a first-year band director entering the profession today? Learn to relinquish control of the band program and delegate responsibilities to capable students and parents so you can focus on the music making and not get bogged down with the non-music making tasks that come with the job (maintenance of equipment, uniforms, fund-raising, record keeping, promotion, organizing, etc.)Â
Can you tell us about a moment with your students that reminded you why you love teaching band?Â
Whenever I saw how excited they often got over playing a piece of music to their personal satisfaction, I knew I was making a long-standing difference in their lives.Â
What’s one teaching strategy or rehearsal technique that’s made a big difference in your band program? Teaching my students not only how to correctly identify the problem in a passage (rhythm, pitch, articulation, phrasing, balance, intonation, etc.), but also how to diagnose a solution through their frequent analysis of rehearsal and performance recordings, improved their musicianship skills tremendously.Â
What inspired you to become a band director, and how did your journey in music education begin?Â
Some of my earliest recollections as a child are my father (choral director) playing records of programmatic music by Aaron Copland, Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Berlioz, and Bizet. These were my bedtime stories, not Dr. Seuss books! My mom was a piano teacher, so she started giving me lessons at age 5. By the time I was in fifth grade and able to join band, I was completely sold on music!
2024 National ASBDA Honor Band
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