Copper State Marching Podcast

In this episode, Mark and Aaron dive into all things colorguard with two of Arizona’s top instructors: Keith Casey and Brandy DuBose. They share insights, techniques, and practical advice for band directors looking to build and support strong colorguard programs. Don’t miss it! Keith Casey shares his journey from Georgia horn player to colorguard expert. With experience at JSU, Star of Indiana, an...

In this episode, we welcome Jeff Quamo (Chandler HS) and Rick McEnenay (Flagstaff HS) to share their strategies for designing effective shows on a budget. Jeff Quamo reflects on his journey in crafting high-quality drill and music, beginning at Mesa HS with Robbie Brooks. He’s collaborated with the same arranger for 15 years and began his tenure at Chandler with a show that resonated deeply with t...

In this episode we speak with Matt Kozacek, Director of Bands at Campo Verde HS and the founding and current President of AzMBA and Daniel Berard, retired band director from Colorado, Texas and Missouri and founder of B Elevated Music, Education and Development. Matt shares his timeline in the spring that leads to a successful fall season. Most importantly starting early so that you can plan ahead...

In this episode, Aaron Vogel and Mark Hodge spend some time recapping AzMBA Championships this year. Post-championships, Aaron and Mark discuss their experience at Championships. They talk about the medalists from every division and share their thoughts and favorite moments from the different shows we saw this year. AzMBA looks forward to seeing directors and staff at the AMEA Conference at the en...

In this episode we speak with Chad Shoopman, Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Arizona and Matt Kozacek, Director of Bands at Campo Verde HS and the founding and current President of AzMBA. Chad Shoopman discusses his connection to the University of Arizona as an undergrad student, graduate student, drum major and now Director of Athletic Bands. He explains the timeline of his show s...

In this episode we speak with Damon Knepper, Band Director at Ironwood Ridge High School and Denise Hudson, WGAZ Hall of Famer, and staff member for the Sun Devil Marching Band and the FeniX Independent Winterguards. Denise takes us back to her roots in a small town in Iowa where she got her start spinning and participating in pageantry arts. She also discusses the key to balancing family time and...

In this episode: We speak with Jeffrey Malone, Band Director at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale and Nick Peterson, AzMBA Adjudicator joining us from Fort Collins, Colorado. Jeff Malone speaks about his transition into a new role at Mountain Ridge and how great the students, staff and community have been. He also give several tips and ideas for how to achieve so many different ensemble goals...

In this episode: We speak with Jacob Osorio, Band Director at Sunrise Mountain High School in Peoria and Martin Hebda, Band Director at Casa Grande High School.