Band Room Therapy

Why We Chose Band Four band educators compare origin stories, talk about what keeps them in the profession, and swap first-year teaching chaos stories. The conversation matters because it shows how band shapes identity, classroom community, and career commitment in ways that go far beyond playing notes. Sponsors Sight Reading Factory RCP Drum Company Wenger for Music Education https://wengercorp.c...

The best band directors are not the ones who never fail—they’re the ones who fail faster, reflect honestly, and get their students back on track before the moment slips away. Ryan Ashley sits down with Zach Smith, Mrs. Breedlove, and Mr. Morgan, aka Cooking With Valve Oil, for a sharp, funny, and surprisingly practical conversation about building a culture where mistakes become momentum instead of...

Delaware band programs are smaller, scrappier, and more connected than you think—and that’s exactly why they’re changing fast. Blaine Salerni and Brian Endlein reveal how music education really works in the First State, from decentralized decision-making and one-day State Arts Day to the growing push for jazz, modern band, steel drums, and more access for students. Delaware might be tiny, but its...

What happens when a group of band kids, music teachers, and lifelong performers turn a love of brass music into stadium-sized entertainment? In this conversation, the Banana Band shares the musical paths that brought them together—from school band rooms and college struggles to wedding gigs, touring, and playing for packed crowds across the country. They talk about the mentors who kept them going,...

Beginning band concerts can feel huge—for students, families, and directors. In this episode of Band Room Therapy, Ryan Ashley, Jeff Simpson, Bridget Steppen, and Nicole Vaughn share practical, encouraging ideas for planning a first concert that celebrates growth over perfection. They talk concert formats, helping anxious beginners feel safe on stage, choosing achievable music, involving families,...

How does band education work in Connecticut? Host Ryan Ashley talks with Connecticut music educators Anthony Susi and Brian Cyr about the state’s music organizations, all-state and regional auditions, concert and marching band opportunities, jazz education, festivals, mentorship, and what makes Connecticut’s band community unique. They break down the full school-year calendar—from marching season...

This episode is a panel discussion about how band and orchestra programs build leadership from day one, not just through titles or auditions. Mr. Ashley is joined by Austin Campbell, Renee Lechner, and Francisco Quixtan, who each share different ways they develop student responsibility, spot healthy versus toxic leadership, and use their ensembles to teach life skills that extend far beyond music....

This episode of Bandroom Therapy brings together host Paul Glader and guests Rachel Allen, Charlie Nesmith, and Mr. Heim for a practical, experience-based conversation about middle school band classroom management. They focus on what a well-run room looks and sounds like, how to balance authority with approachability, and how to handle everything from routines to bathroom breaks without losing tem...

State of Band: Colorado Colorado band directors share how the state’s music scene is organized, from its governing bodies and region structure to concert festival, marching band, honor band, and all-state opportunities. The conversation also highlights the strong culture of mentorship, collaboration, and practical support across the state. Sponsors: Sight Reading Factory RCP Drum Company BetterSax...

This episode digs into what band culture actually means, how it shows up in rehearsal and daily routines, and why it matters for student buy in, trust, and community. Mr. Morgan, Miss Gates, and Mr. Haim compare middle school and high school experiences, share the traditions that shaped their programs, and talk honestly about discipline, parent communication, and the balance between teacher leader...

This episode of Band Room Therapy Podcast is all about color guard and why it matters to the full marching band experience. Mr. Ashley is joined by Dalton Stout, Mrs. Lavonne Pearson, and Jeremy Williams for a practical conversation on recruiting, inclusion, fundamentals, leadership, and building a healthy guard culture. We discuss how to value color guard as artists and educators, not just as an...

California’s band world is anything but one-size-fits-all. Host Mr. Ashley sits down with Southern California director Jimmy “Jimm3rz” and Northern California director Jacqueline to unpack how music education, festivals, all-state auditions, marching band, and local leadership work across the state. They compare the organizations that shape opportunities for students, the differences between South...

This episode is a practical conversation about how band directors choose repertoire that fits their students, their instrumentation, and their audience. Rick Schwartz is joined by Cooking With Valve Oil, aka Mr. Morgan, and Megan Vinther to break down how they balance educational value, enjoyment, and realistic rehearsal time when programming concert music. In this episode, Rick Schwartz introduce...

The wrong music can wreck a middle school band year. The right music can transform bored kids into confident players, and this conversation shows you exactly how to tell the difference before you hand out a single part. Rachel Allen sits down with Jordan White, Jeff Simpson, and Randall Standridge for a sharp, practical conversation about choosing repertoire that actually works for middle school e...

Arkansas bands run on a system that is tighter, more collaborative, and more demanding than most states - and this episode reveals exactly how it works. If you’ve ever wondered how a state can build strong marching, concert, jazz, and honor ensemble opportunities while keeping directors connected across huge rural distances, this conversation gives you the inside look. Host Mrs. Allen talks with M...

Picking jazz rep is where great jazz bands are made - or quietly held back. The wrong chart can flatten your section, frustrate your rhythm players, and kill momentum fast. The right one can build confidence, teach style, and turn a mixed lineup into a band that swings. On this panel, Mr. Ashley is joined by Kyle Smith, Keith Heim, and Trent Warner to break down how experienced directors choose re...

First-year band directors often feel like they're drowning in a sea of keys, schedules, and unspoken community rules—the chaos is real but manageable. In this candid episode, experienced teachers share their rawest first-year stories, revealing how a little guidance, some humor, and a lot of humility can turn overwhelm into confidence. From navigating unexpected student behaviors to surviving...

Arizona’s band community isn’t just about sunshine and deserts; it’s a vibrant, organized ecosystem packed with unique traditions, competitive circuits, and innovative ensembles that could inspire educators nationwide. Jackson Snyder and Nate Conell, two experienced band directors from Scottsdale and Phoenix, reveal how Arizona’s comprehensive structure and diverse competitions are shaping the fut...

Most teachers feel like they have no time for hobbies—but what if your favorite pastime could actually make you a better educator? In this episode of Band Room Therapy , middle school band teachers from Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Mississippi share how their personal passions—ranging from Lego building to running, painting, and organizing—transform their teaching lives and connect them more dee...

Unlock the secrets to launching your brass section with confidence and ease! Whether you're a veteran teacher or new to the game, this episode reveals practical, proven strategies to develop beginner brass players from day one — all while keeping it engaging and organized. Don’t miss out on expert insights that can turn chaos into organized joy right in your classroom. Imagine starting your first...

Alaska might be the last frontier, but it’s got a surprising and vibrant music education scene you’ve likely never heard of — until now. In this episode, two Alaskan band directors break down what it’s really like to teach music in one of the most remote and rugged states, revealing how they keep their programs alive and thriving despite geographic isolation and unique logistical challenges. You’l...

Unlock the truth about what it really takes to survive and thrive as a music major. Whether you're eyeing a career in performance, education, or beyond, this episode offers no-nonsense advice, heartfelt stories, and game-changing insights from students and educators who’ve been in the trenches. Discover the unexpected challenges, the myths to bust, and the habits that can elevate you through t...

Most percussionists are seen as the "back row" players, but what if mastering a variety of skills—beyond just drums—could elevate your ensemble's entire sound? In this dynamic episode, four veteran educators and performers share their insights on the true scope of percussion mastery, from foundational techniques to equipment savvy and cross-instrument skills. Discover how exposure, v...

Discover how Alabama's vibrant band culture operates without the extensive state sanctions you're used to. In this eye-opening episode, Alabama band directors Donna Smith and Michelle McDonald peel back the curtain on the unique landscape of music education in the Heart of Dixie — from adherence to local organizations, to contest structures, and the deep-rooted football influence that shap...

If you are about to start teaching, moving states, or just geniunely curious about bands across America and how each state is different/similar. Then join me as I interview band directors from every state in America. Starting Monday July 6th with Alabama. #stateofband #bandroomtherapy #bandroom