Common Time Podcast

With the Midwest Clinic just a couple of weeks away, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Richard Crain to Common Time Podcast . Dr. Crain brings an incredible 64 years of experience in music education to our conversation, making this a truly special episode. We dive into his time with the Midwest Clinic, exploring the event's growth and its impact on music educators worldwide. He shares inspiring and he...

Your special Thanksgiving week episode is here! This week, we’re chatting about something a bit different but just as important—taking care of you so you can be your best self as a teacher. In this episode of Common Time Podcast , we welcome Lyndsay Boysen, a passionate advocate for educator wellness and creator of workshops tailored to music teachers. Lyndsay shares practical strategies for achie...

In this episode of Common Time Podcast , we sit down with Scott Boerma, a renowned composer, arranger, and music educator, to discuss his journey in the world of music. Scott shares insights into his approach to composing and arranging for bands, and how his teaching has influenced his composing and vice versa. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and actionable takeawa...

In this episode of Common Time Podcast , we welcome Kathy Johnson, an experienced educator and mentor whose passion for nurturing young teachers shines through in this episode. Kathy shares her expertise on creating supportive environments for new teachers, providing essential guidance for mentors, and fostering growth without overwhelming them. Together, we discuss practical strategies for mentor...

In this inspiring episode, we dive into Erin Cole Steele’s journey of leading her Title I school band program to the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. Erin shares the challenges, strategies, and key decisions that helped her transform her program and elevate her students. Along the way, we discuss the foundational elements that make any band program successful, regardless of resources...

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Jamal Duncan, a highly respected conductor and educator, to explore the role of competition in music education. As directors, we often face the question of how much competition is right—or even positive—for student growth and program development. Jamal shares his insights on the pros and cons of fostering a competitive mindset within music progra...

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Fettig, Director of Bands at the University of Michigan and former conductor of the United States Marine Band, to discuss his remarkable career in music and leadership. Jason shares insights from his extensive experience conducting one of the nation’s most respected ensembles, offering valuable advice for ensemble directors at every level. We explore his jou...

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Gulledge and Mark McGahey to explore the ins and outs of building a robust private lesson program. This episode was over an hour of an amazing conversation, so we decided to give our listeners two options! We have an abbreviated version with the best takeaways, and the full hour long episode.  Both Stephen and Mark share their experiences in creating envir...

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Gulledge and Mark McGahey to explore the ins and outs of building a robust private lesson program. This episode was over an hour of an amazing conversation, so we decided to give our listeners two options! We have an abbreviated version with the best takeaways, and the full hour long episode.  Both Stephen and Mark share their experiences in creating envir...

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast , we are joined by the incredible Jeff King, co-author of Foundations for Superior Performance , a cornerstone resource for band directors everywhere. Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge on ensemble fundamentals and shares valuable insights for band directors who want to elevate their ensemble's performance through foundational techniques. This episode is p...

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Richard Saucedo, highly respected composer, clinician, and conductor, currently serving as the Chief Judge for Bands of America. Previously, Mr. Saucedo served for 31 years as the Director of Bands at Carmel High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. Richard shares his extensive experience and knowledge about the marching arts, foc...

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we sit down with John Alstrin, the Director of Fine Arts for Prosper ISD. John shares valuable insights from his extensive experience in education from both the classroom and administration. He focuses on the importance of building meaningful relationships and working effectively with your team. Whether you’re a seasoned director or just starting your ca...

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Patrick Erwin, an educator and advocate for student leadership with over 17 years of experience as a high school band director. Patrick's work has extended far beyond music education; he currently serves as the Director of Curriculum for Growing Leaders. He brings a wealth of knowledge on how to cultivate leadership skills in student...

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Cindy Lansford, a veteran music educator with decades of experience in shaping the future of young musicians. Cindy shares her journey into music education, her teaching philosophy, and her most memorable moments in the classroom. This episode is packed with practical advice for music educators at all levels, making it a must-l...

In our premiere episode of the Common Time Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with the legendary Jerry Junkin, Artistic Director and Conductor of The Dallas Winds. With decades of experience in the world of wind conducting, Jerry shares his most memorable moments, his approach to interpreting music, and invaluable advice for all conductors and musicians. This episode offers a glimpse in...