66th ASBDA National Convention
66th ASBDA National Convention
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Member Spotlight
Member Spotlight
Karen Williams Lanning
Karen Williams Lanning
We asked Karen Williams Lanning (NC) to share her journey, wisdom, and inspiration as a music educator.
What inspired you to become a band director, and how did your journey in music education begin?
While I grew up as a piano and vocal kid, my middle and high school band experiences fostered my love for music in new ways. I always knew that I wanted to be a music teacher, and being a part of strong band programs opened my eyes to new experiences, travel, leadership opportunities, team bonding, and the pursuit of excellence as a performer.
What’s one teaching strategy or rehearsal technique that’s made a big difference in your band program?
Warm-ups! As an early teacher, I did not recognize the critical importance of what type of warmups I was utilizing in the classroom and incorporating listening into simple exercises and long tones. Once I began shifting the how and why of warm-ups and emphasizing their importance, the fundamental sounds of the students improved dramatically!
Can you tell us about a moment with your students that reminded you why you love teaching band?
I have a myriad of moments over the course of my career that remind me why I love teaching band. The ones that stand out most involve students being exposed to music and opportunities that they otherwise wouldn't have outside of the band program. Watching my students attend a symphony orchestra concert for the first time, and the expression on their faces is priceless. Watching kids and their gasps as they react to the opening scene of "Phantom of the Opera" while visiting NYC is a moment that I will never forget. Seeing kids from our small rural school playing on the Carnegie Hall stage or marching during the All-American Bowl are both moments where I was overcome with emotion. Being a part of a band program teaches so much more than just notes on a page. It is life-changing.
What advice would you give to a first-year band director entering the profession today?
My advice for first-year directors entering the profession today would be number one: open your band room doors and invite people in. Receiving feedback from experienced directors is the greatest professional development that a new director can participate in. Second, get involved with your local bandmasters association. Talking with other directors about their experiences, asking questions, and just sharing together helps build a support system that is crucial for success.
We are excited to announce that Travis Smith has been selected as the recipient of the Al and Gladys Wright Award for 2025. This award is given to individuals who have shown exceptional dedication and passion in the band field after retirement. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Travis Smith for being named the recipient of the 2025 Al & Gladys Wright Service to Bands Award! From the moment Travis first picked up an instrument, his life's passion for music was ignited, and his unwavering dedication has been a guiding light for countless individuals. His work in music education, a field to which he has dedicated his life, is a testament to the thousands of lives he has changed and his esteemed reputation among hundreds of his fellow music educators.
Travis has taken every challenge in hand, overcoming obstacles throughout his distinguished career to become a truly highly successful band director and a well-known figure in music education. His appreciation from his peers is evident in all the awards he has received. His commitment extends far beyond the podium; he has consistently served on numerous regional and state committees for various national organizations, including the Texas State Chair for ASBDA. He is adamant about furthering and bettering music education for all. Many of his peers in the American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA) know Travis best as the charismatic, friendly voice of our National Convention's auction. Travis has never met a stranger; he instantly becomes a great friend to all he meets. Some of his most wonderful attributes are his infectious laugh, bright smile, and welcoming Southern accent, all of which make him a genuinely unique and respected figure in the world of bands.
2024 National ASBDA Honor Band
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