Member Spotlight

What advice would you give to a first-year band director entering the profession today? 

Always remember that progress matters more than perfection. Every student arrives with unique backgrounds, knowledge, and skills, and our goal is to support each one in making meaningful growth at their own pace.

Can you tell us about a moment with your students that reminded you why you love teaching band? 

Football season is one of my favorite times of year with my students. I believe band teaches far more than musical skills—it helps shape students into kind, responsible, and well-rounded individuals. While our primary goal is to develop independent musicians, we also take pride in knowing we are sending good people into the world. During football season, my students consistently make me proud through their respectful conduct at games, positive attitudes, school spirit, and their ability to complete tasks—like loading out at the end of the night—quickly and efficiently. Of course, I cherish the musical moments we share, but what fills me with the greatest pride is witnessing their growth as young adults. Knowing I have played a part in nurturing not only strong musicians but also good humans is deeply rewarding.

What’s one teaching strategy or rehearsal technique that’s made a big difference in your band program? 

A core value in my classroom is perseverance. For many teenagers—especially those who hold themselves to high standards—learning not to give up can be challenging. I work to cultivate a culture where persistence is both expected and celebrated. Students often underestimate their own abilities, but when they continue to push forward, they are frequently surprised by what they can achieve. These moments of accomplishment not only boost their confidence but also encourage them to tackle increasingly challenging musical opportunities. By adopting a mindset of “push through it, you can do it,” students can experience the full reward of the learning process and develop a deeper appreciation for their musical growth.

What inspired you to become a band director, and how did your journey in music education begin? 

I was inspired to pursue a career as a band director by the incredible music educators I had growing up. Music was the first subject in school that truly resonated with me. I looked forward to every opportunity to sing in choir, and in fifth grade, when I had the chance to try instruments, I knew right away that I wanted to play the trumpet, just like my dad. From there, my musical journey took off. I was fortunate to learn from teachers who recognized and encouraged my potential. They challenged me musically, provided meaningful performance opportunities, and pushed me not only in music but also to explore new experiences such as drama, musical theater, and Tri-M.