Directors Circle
42 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 4 years ago - ★★★★ - 31 ratingsA podcast featuring insight from music educators and school leaders discussing their philosophies on the administrative leadership of a comprehensive music program.
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Episodes
Andrea Brown - Episode 40
July 13, 2020 21:02 - 45 minutes - 21.1 MBDr. Andrea Brown is the Associate Director of Bands at the University of Maryland in College Park, MD. At UM, Dr. Brown conducts several ensembles including the University of Maryland Wind Ensemble and the Mighty Sound of Maryland Marching Band. Topics include: - Andrea discusses her experiences working as the Assistant Director of Bands at the University of Michigan and making the transition to leading ensembles at the University of Maryland - Designing shows for marching band ...
Timothy Holtan - Episode 39
June 11, 2020 21:22In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Colonel Timothy Holtan. Col. Holtan holds the distinction of being the first officer to command all three of the U.S. Army’s premier bands. Since retiring in 2017, he currently serves as Artistic Director and Conductor of the Maryland Winds. Topics include: - Colonel Holtan shares lessons learned from his time in the Army Band - Differences between studying at the Army School of Music and a four-year university - Selecting re...
Timothy Holtan - Episode 39
June 11, 2020 21:22In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Colonel Timothy Holtan. Col. Holtan holds the distinction of being the first officer to command all three of the U.S. Army’s premier bands. Since retiring in 2017, he currently serves as Artistic Director and Conductor of the Maryland Winds. Topics include: - Colonel Holtan shares lessons learned from his time in the Army Band - Differences between studying at the Army School of Music and a four-year university - Selecting re...
Peter Boonshaft - Episode 38
May 28, 2020 17:52 - 1 hour - 31.7 MBThis episode features my interview with Dr. Peter Boonshaft. Dr. Boonshaft, Director of Education for Jupiter Brand Instruments and KHS America Academic Alliance, is the author of the critically acclaimed best-selling books Teaching Music with Passion, Teaching Music with Purpose, and Teaching Music with Promise. Dr. Boonshaft is currently on the faculty of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, where he is Professor of Music. Dr. Boonshaft is also a Spokesperson for Alfred Music. ...
Ryan Nowlin - Episode 37
May 20, 2020 16:05 - 1 hour - 42.6 MBThis episode features my interview with Mr. Ryan Nowlin who is a well-regarded composer, educator, and conductor. Ryan is the Assistant Director for “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band and is a co-author of the famous “Tradition Of Excellence” method series. In our conversation, Ryan talks about his work as a composer and how he approaches working with ensembles. Ryan Nowlin’s appearance on this podcast is in an unofficial capacity and does not constitute or imply endorsem...
Michael Haithcock - Episode 36
May 15, 2020 19:37 - 58 minutes - 27.1 MBIn this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Michael Haithcock who is the Director of Bands at the University of Michigan. During our conversation, Michael shares his thoughts on ways to engage students in rehearsal and leading a program to musical excellence. Topics include: - Transitioning into a program that’s strong in tradition - Maintaining excellence in a program - Bringing music to life through score study - Repertoire quality and selection - Helping stud...
Dennis Glocke - Episode 35
May 08, 2020 18:53 - 1 hour - 44.1 MBThis episode features my interview with my friend and mentor, Mr. Dennis Glocke. Dennis has recently retired as the Director of Concert Bands at Penn State University where he has led several ensembles and taught courses in conducting. In our conversation, Dennis shares many lessons on music-making and teaching that he has learned over his career as a music educator. Topics include: - Dennis discusses his career as a music educator and conductor - Inspiring students through the c...
Lori Schwartz Reichl - Episode 34
May 01, 2020 19:11 - 1 hour - 36.4 MBIn this episode of the podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lori Schwartz Reichl. Lori is an author, clinician, and music educator who is well known for her contributions to publications such as In Tune Magazine and Teaching Music Magazine. In this interview, Lori shares her ideas on setting up students for success and incorporating diversity into musical experiences. Topics include: - Lori talks about her work and creating professional development materials for music te...
Theresa Hoover Ducassoux - Episode 33
April 24, 2020 20:14 - 49 minutes - 23 MBThis episode features my interview with Theresa Hoover Ducassoux. Theresa is a well-known music educator and writer with her blog, Off the Beaten Path: A Music Teacher’s Journey. In our conversation, Theresa shares many of her ideas on integrating technology into the classroom and student empowerment. Topics: - Technology integration into the classroom and concert hall - Ideas on remote teaching during the Covid-19 Pandemic - Empowering students in the classroom Links: O...
Scott Watson - Episode 32
April 15, 2020 21:34 - 50 minutes - 23.7 MBThis episode features my conversation with Dr. Scott Watson. In addition to being an acclaimed composer for band and orchestra, Scott is well known for his work as an educator, author, and clinician. Topics include: - Scott’s approach to composing - Composing for student musicians - Integrating technology into a music class - Teaching young instrumentalists Links: Scott’s website: https://www.scottwatsonmusic.com/ Scott’s youTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/...
Jamey Aebersold - Episode 31
April 01, 2020 21:05 - 47 minutes - 22.3 MBIt is my pleasure to bring you one of my favorite interviews featuring Mr. Jamey Aebersold. Jamey is recognized as a foremost authority in jazz education with his work as an author and publisher of many major publications including his famous Jazz Play-A -Long series. In this episode, we talk about the importance of improvisation and ways to encourage students to create their own music. Topics include: (04:55) Jamey talks about his professional background (0711) Jamey discusses how he ...
Shelley Jagow - Episode 30
March 26, 2020 18:31 - 1 hour - 29.2 MBThis episode features my interview with Dr. Shelley Jagow from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. In addition to her career as an educator and conductor, Shelley is well known for her work as an author of several publications including “Teaching Instrumental Music: Developing The Complete Band Program” and “Tuning For Wind Instruments: A Roadmap To Successful Intonation.” Topics include: (02:46) Shelley talks about her professional background and work at Wright State Universit...
Teaching Music During Difficult Times - Episode 29
March 17, 2020 22:16 - 58 minutes - 27.2 MBAs we face the challenges of teaching during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, I had the pleasure of bringing a panel of distinguished music educators together as they shared their personal experiences with this matter. In this interview, you will hear Dr. Russel Mikkelson (Ohio State), Dr. Christopher Cicconi (Towson University), Dr. Andrew Yozviak (West Chester University of PA), and Adam Gumble (West Chester University of PA) talking about their current teaching situations, modifying instructio...
Philip Silvey - Episode 28
March 12, 2020 21:58 - 1 hour - 36 MBIn this interview, I had the privilege of chatting with Dr. Philip Silvey. In addition to being an acclaimed composer and arranger, Dr. Silvey is Associate Professor of Music Teaching and Learning at the Eastman School of Music where he directs the Women’s Chorus and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in music education. Highlights from our conversation include Philip’s ideas on composing, teacher training, student motivation, and assessment strategies. Topics include: (02:3...
Tyler Austin - Episode 27
February 28, 2020 17:39 - 1 hour - 32.7 MBThis episode features Dr. Tyler Austin who is currently the Assistant Director of Bands at Oklahoma State University. In this episode, Tyler talks about his roles as a college band director and musical director for the Maryland Chamber Winds. We also chat about entrepreneurial skills, creating meaningful relationships, and vulnerability for music educators. Topics include: (04:30) Tyler talks about growing up in Western Maryland, his background, and work at OSU (15:15) Adapting to...
Timothy Mahr - Episode 26
February 19, 2020 20:13 - 1 hour - 32.2 MBIn this episode, I speak with renowned conductor and composer, Dr. Timothy Mahr. Dr. Mahr is an active composer for wind band and is also a professor of music at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Dr. Mahr shares some valuable insight into the art of composing and creating a culture of excellence in a music program. Topics include: (02:28) Tim talks about his life, professional background, and band at St. Olaf College (15:28) Achieving excellence across an entire music department...
Jerry Blackstone - Episode 25
February 08, 2020 16:23 - 1 hour - 40.9 MBThis episode features my interview with the legendary Dr. Jerry Blackstone. Jerry is a Grammy award-winning conductor who is well known for his work as a professor of choral music at the University of Michigan. In our discussion, Jerry shares his views on repertoire, inspiring musicians, and the art of music-making. Topics include: (04:09) Jerry talks about his life, background, and current role as a visiting professor at Wheaton College (12:32) Score study (30:05) Connecting st...
Inside The Circle - Scott Sheehan
February 05, 2020 03:07 - 16 minutes - 7.79 MBIn this special edition of Directors Circle, I catch up with Scott Sheehan on the open election for the National Association for Music Education. Scott discusses the topics up for election as well as being a candidate for the 2020-2022 National President-Elect. If you are a NAfME member, make sure to vote by February 12th!
Todd Stefan - Episode 24
January 22, 2020 23:43 - 1 hour - 31.2 MBIn the episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Todd Stefan from Wexford (a.k.a Pittsburgh), PA. Todd oversees a large high school band program in the North Allegheny School District that has featured ensembles at PMEA state conferences, NAfME All-Eastern conferences, and the inaugural parade for Barack Obama’s presidency. In this interview, we chat about a wide variety of topics including administrative tasks involved with a large music program, staying mentally healthy with the stress...
Jason Worzbyt - Episode 23
January 14, 2020 11:00 - 1 hour - 37 MBThis episode features my conversation with Dr. Jason Worzbyt from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Indiana, PA. In addition to conducting several instrumental ensembles, Jason also teaches undergraduate and graduate music courses and leads the bassoon studio at IUP. In this interview, we chat about a wide variety of topics including repertoire, recruiting the perfect bassoonist, the importance of music, and coffee! Topics include: (04:06) We talk about coffee and Jason’s preferred br...
Mike Kamuf - Episode 22
January 08, 2020 15:59 - 40 minutes - 19.1 MBBeing a music educator is an occupying job with regards to time and balance. Imagine having the job of being a prominent composer in addition to that! In this interview, I had the privilege to chat with Mike Kamuf on how he balances a busy schedule of being a working composer in addition to leading the band and orchestra program at John T. Baker Middle School in Damascus, MD. Topics include: (03:24) Mike talks about his life and background as a composer/educator (04:45) Mike talk...
Christopher Kiver - Episode 21
January 03, 2020 03:10 - 1 hour - 64.5 MBThis podcast episode features my interview with Dr. Christopher Kiver. Dr. Kiver is the Director of Choral Activities at Penn State University where he directs the concert choir and glee club. In addition to discussing the importance of music and quality repertoire, Dr. Kiver also gives insight into the role that gender plays in a comprehensive music program. Topics include: (02:57) Kiver talks about his life and background as starting out as an instrumentalist (05:27) The differen...
Scott Lang - Episode 20
December 10, 2019 12:00 - 1 hour - 58.3 MBThis episode features my interview with leadership expert, Scott Lang. Scott is an internationally known speaker and advocate for music education. As a lead author and contributor to publications like “Leader Of The Band” and “Be Part Of The Music”, Scott has helped in leading thousands of students in start their adventures in music. Topics include: (04:37) Scott talks about his life and professional background (05:27) Scott talks about his background of being an administrator (...
Frank Battisti - Episode 19
November 26, 2019 13:30 - 1 hour - 62.5 MBIn this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Frank Battisti about his views on music and music education. Known affectionately to many of his students as “Mr. B”, Battisti has led a prolific career as an educator at Ithaca High School (NY) and the New England Conservatory. Bonus features of this episode include ideas on the importance of music to the human experience and a remarkable story of an impromptu performance featuring Benny Goodman playing a student’s clarinet. T...
Derrick Fox - Episode 18
November 15, 2019 14:20 - 1 hour - 69.6 MBIn this episode, I chat with Dr. Derrick Fox from the University of Nebraska-Omaha on what it’s like to have a background in instrumental music and leading a renowned collegiate choral program. Topics include: (05:34) Fox talks about his life and professional background (15:52) Building community within your program. (17:22) Repertoire Selection (29:14) Managing a career as a conductor, educator, and composer (37:04) Fox discusses his book “Yes You Can: A Band Director’s Gu...
Stephen Gage - Episode 17
October 30, 2019 10:30 - 1 hour - 87.9 MBThis episode features Dr. Stephen Gage from Youngstown State University. In this interview, he shares his thoughts on a wide array of subjects ranging from imagination to repertoire selection. Topics include: (04:33) Dr. Gage talks about his life and professional background (07:30) Dr. Gage talks about his ensembles at YSU (10:08) Working with the legendary coach, Jim Tressel, as the YSU President (14:45) Repertoire Selection (27:24) Symphonic Repertoire (36:12) Ways cond...
Brenda Brenner - Episode 16
October 04, 2019 11:00 - 1 hour - 31.7 MBHave you ever wondered what it would be like having a career as a renowned performer and music education training specialist? In this episode, I speak with Dr. Brenda Brenner from Indiana University to discuss her roles as a professional musician, studio instructor, and professor of music education. She also talks about her work with the Fairview Violin Project, a program in which every first and second grader in an underserved school is taught violin as part of the curriculum. Topics...
Scott Rush - Episode 15
September 18, 2019 10:37 - 57 minutes - 26.5 MBThis episode features my interview with the acclaimed author and music educator, Scott Rush. Mr. Rush is widely known for his Habits of Success book series as well as being a renowned band director in South Carolina. Scott shares stories about his career, work as an author, and his current role working in administration. Topics include: (05:12) Scott talks about his life and professional background (07:45) Scott talks about how his background as a professional performer has affect...
Christopher Cicconi - Episode 14
September 11, 2019 13:00 - 1 hour - 33.3 MBIn this episode, I speak with Dr. Christopher Cicconi from Towson, MD. Cicconi shares how he conducts his band and orchestra programs at Towson University. Also being a professor of music education, Cicconi shares how he prepares his students as they enter the workforce. Topics include: (04:05) Cicconi talks about his professional background (05:55 ) Cicconi discusses his band and orchestra programs at Towson University (10:07) Establishing cultures within multiple ensembles o...
Len Lavelle - Episode 13
August 26, 2019 16:00 - 1 hour - 65.8 MBIn this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Len Lavelle from Pittsburgh, PA. If you are from PA, you are sure to be familiar with Len’s work with his bands at North Hills High School. If you are not from the Keystone State, make sure to check out this episode featuring one of the best in the business as he shares ideas on inspiration, teaching, and music education. Topics include: (03:25) Len talks about his professional background (08:55 ) Len stalks about why he de...
Frank Parker - Episode 12
August 20, 2019 12:00 - 1 hour - 29.5 MBFrank Parker is director of bands at Quakertown High School in Quakertown, PA. In his program, Frank teaches a wide range of ensembles including two concert bands, two jazz bands, and the award winning Panther Marching band. As a highly sought after conductor, Frank has been featured as a guest conductor at many honors band festivals and has also directed his students in performances at several state and national level music education conferences. Topics include: (03:53) Frank talk...
Ramona Wis - Episode 11
July 17, 2019 12:00 - 1 hour - 56.1 MBThis special episode features the renowned choral conductor and author, Dr. Ramona Wis. In this interview, I discuss several key components of leadership with Dr. Wis that she was written about in her popular book, “The Conductor As Leader: Principles of Leadership Applied to Life on the Podium.” Topics include: (03:55) Dr. Wis shares some stories about her professional background as a conductor and educator (05:50) Dr. Wis discusses how she went about learning principles of leadershi...
Joe Santanello - Episode 10
June 11, 2019 12:30 - 1 hour - 120 MBI chat with Joe Santanello as he discusses his views on attaining student excellence and transitioning into a new position. Joe is a phenomenal musician, educator, and human being and this episode is jam-packed with tons of valuable insight for anyone interested in developing a program or moving into a new music program. Topics include: (07:02) Joe discusses his program at Strayer Middle School and developing the program in both quantity and quality. (09:30) Developing a focus on...
Bob Phillips - Episode 9
May 01, 2019 12:00 - 1 hour - 81.2 MBIn this episode, I sit down with Bob Phillips to discuss his career as an educator and the Director of String Publications for Alfred Music. Topics discussed include: recruitment of student musicians, building a new program, using alternative styles in a string curriculum, and writing a method book. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/directorscircle
Brad Townsend - Episode 8
March 26, 2019 12:30 - 33 minutes - 31.3 MBIn this episode, I speak with Dr. Brad Townsend who is the director of bands at the University of Pittsburgh. He shares his thoughts on developing music programs at multiple universities, entering as a new director in a program that is rich in tradition, taking student input into consideration for show planning, and implementing growth in a collegiate program. Topics discussed: Entering a new program, working at the university level, effective problem solving through teaching, program...
Bob Matchett - Episode 7
February 04, 2019 13:30 - 55 minutes - 50.8 MBBob Matchett discusses his work as a band director at Seneca Valley Senior High School in Harmony, PA. With an accomplished career as an educator and musician, Bob discusses characteristics of an outstanding leader, taking over a new program, and how working as a professional musician can impact teaching. In April, Bob will conduct the Seneca Valley High School Wind Ensemble at the NAfME All Eastern Conference in Pittsburgh, PA.
Stephen Benham - Episode 6
January 16, 2019 13:30 - 1 hour - 68.6 MBDr. Stephen Benham speaks about his leadership roles as a former president for the American String Teachers Association and as an Associate Professor of Music Education at the Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. As a leading expert in string pedagogy and teaching, Dr. Benham shares his thoughts on music advocacy, servitude leadership, and working as an administrator at the collegiate level.
Scott Koter - Episode 5
December 17, 2018 14:00 - 1 hour - 76 MBScott Koter sits down with us to discuss his extensive carrier that includes experience as an assistant superintendent, band director, and program coordinator for several DCI drum corps. In this episode, Scott will share his thoughts on building a comprehensive program, working with administrators, and the planning that goes into a championship winning season. Scott will also give us a sneak peak on his upcoming presentation at the 2018 Midwest Clinic that focuses on increasing professional ...
Greg Johnson - Episode 4
November 21, 2018 13:30 - 41 minutes - 57.7 MBIn this episode, Greg Johnson shares his experiences on leading his jazz program at the Marin School of the Arts. Topics discussed include: teaching improvisation, gaining appreciation for all styles of music, programing repertoire, and utilizing experience as a professional musician to motivate students. To learn more about Greg and his music, please visit www.gregjohnsonjazz.com
Ryan Beeken - Episode 3
November 15, 2018 19:19 - 44 minutes - 40.7 MBDr. Ryan Beeken shares his thoughts of effectively connecting with students and building a choral program of over 300 musicians during his time as an educator in public schools. In addition to his work as the director of choral studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Beeken frequently serves as a clinician and conductor across the country.
Jeff Ball - Episode 2
November 15, 2018 18:58 - 52 minutes - 48.9 MBIn this episode, Jeff Ball discusses his approach to building a band program of over 350 students at the Grand Street Campus in NYC and conducting the Brooklyn Wind Symphony around the country in venues such as Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall.
Scott Sheehan - Episode 1
November 15, 2018 17:00 - 56 minutes - 52.5 MBIn this episode, Scott Sheehan discusses his thoughts on leadership, advocacy, and serving as a leader for the National Association for Music Education and Pennsylvania Music Educators Association.