In this enlightening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Del Hubers, a veteran band director with over 40 years of experience, to demystify the process of commissioning new music. Del shares his extensive experience in enriching student engagement and enhancing music programs through commissioned works, highlighting the transformative impact on both students and the school community.

Key Points Covered:

• Introduction to the benefits and process of commissioning music for school bands.
• Del Hubers shares insights on starting with commissioning, including practical tips for engaging composers and managing budgets.
• Discussion on how commissioned works can significantly boost student interest and retention in music programs.

Benefits for Listeners:

• Learn how to initiate the commissioning process for creating unique music pieces tailored to your band’s skill level and community.
• Discover strategies for collaborating effectively with composers and integrating new compositions into your music curriculum.
• Gain inspiration to enhance your music program’s appeal and educational value through commissioned works.

Here are some of the works Del has commissioned that are available to purchase for your ensemble!

• Kevin Hoff - 'Fractured'
• Ryan Meeboer - 'Barricade'
• Alexander Carlin - 'Journey Through the Galaxy'
• Carol Brittin Chambers - 'Antz'
• Joel R. Knecht - 'Black Hills Gold Rush'
• Ward Miller - 'Ring True!'
• John-Alex Warner (Scratch Eden) - 'Krakken!'
• Ernesto Aguirre - 'Dragon Rider'
• Kevin Clary - 'Fox Sparrow March'

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat discusses innovative solutions to common classroom management challenges with Cassie and Michael Tucker, the creators of Lesson Launch Pad. This web-based application helps educators automate routine tasks like displaying daily agendas and managing class timers, significantly reducing decision-making fatigue.

Key Points Covered:

• Introduction to Lesson Launch Pad and its key features.
• How automating certain classroom functions can save time and reduce stress for teachers.
• Specific features of Lesson Launch Pad that enhance classroom organization and efficiency.

Benefits for Listeners:

• Learn how to use technology to streamline daily classroom operations.
• Discover strategies to reduce cognitive load, allowing more focus on teaching and less on administrative tasks.
• Gain insights into creating a more organized and controlled classroom environment with automated tools.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Chris Kaatz, Assistant Director of Bands at Stephen F. Austin State University and co-creator of the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App. Chris shares insights into how technology can streamline music rehearsals and improve productivity. He discusses the challenges music educators face and how his app helps tackle these by providing structured rehearsal techniques and enhancing student accountability.

Key Discussions:

• The common struggles music educators face and how technology can help.
• An overview of the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App and its impact on music rehearsals.
• Practical advice on implementing tech solutions to improve music education outcomes.

Listeners will learn:

• How to utilize the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App to enhance rehearsal productivity.
• Strategies for incorporating new technology into traditional music education practices.
• The importance of personal accountability in student learning and rehearsal effectiveness.

Cue Rehearsal Techniques (cuetechniques.com)