The Growing Band Director

In this episode Kyle and Jeff meet up with Randall Standridge to get his thoughts on great music for grades 1-3 especially, what to look for in the techniques requred for each music, the important things teachers can do to put their programs to the next level, as well as a discussion around commissioning new works from a composer. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe t...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff meet up with Alan King - an Amazing Brass Teacher! - and have a conversation about fixing brass players problems in tone, tonguing and many other things - as well as the best things teachers of beginners should do to create strong brass players!  This is a must listen for any instrumental program! Send comments or topic requests for future episodes to smithk@westbrook...

In this episode Kyle has a conversation about designing, building, starting, and continuing a marching program.  We discuss the basics that are needed - and why it is SO GREAT for any instrumental program! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission is to s...

Never give up on a kid - and more words of wisom!  Become a better teacher through this episode.  Kyle has a conversation with Tom Lizotte about the Ten Deadly Sins of Making Music - some traps WE ALL fall into! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission i...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff have a conversation about clarinet and saxophone reeds - tips for musicians and teachers of all ages! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help every band direct...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff have a conversation about what Jeff says our number one job is!  It's enlightening - and you don't want to miss it! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will help eve...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff have a conversation with Matt and Karen Stacki about the role of a Music Booster program - Do's and Don'ts- how to start-revitalize or maintain a booster program. Never forget-keep trying to make it better and improve! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff have a conversation about Using Logos - a FUNCTIONING website - making parents' lives eaiser - and ways to keep kids in band throughout the grade levels. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission is to share practical  advice...

A Must Listen!  In this episode we talk Instrument Repair with the legendary Joe Bettencourt.  Joe and Jeff walk us through the most common repairs for band directors, and the quick and practical fixes - especially when they happen right before the concert!   Be sure to click below to get his tips and lists for tools and supplies. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe t...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff have a conversation about the tricks they use in rehearsing their bands, and practical ways to improve your concert band. To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com Our mission is to share practical  advice and explore topics that will he...

In this episode Kyle and Jeff dive into an overview discussion around teaching jazz in the public school.  From rhythm section set up and techniques, to programming for all levels of students, we had fun with this discussion! To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com...