I had the pleasure to chat with John Denis, Assistant Professor of Music Education at Texas State University.  He has a real passion for helping young teachers be successful, and as such, not only does he mentor some of the brightest young students entering the teaching profession, but has taken to the podcasting community to reach a wider audience!

“Program Notes: The Beginning Band Director Podcast” isn’t just for directors of the beginning band (6th Grade), nor is it for purely new to the profession teachers.  His podcast site is chock-full of awesome information and thoughtful interviews on a variety of subjects that might be the very thing you need to climb over whatever teaching “wall” is currently in front of you!

In Part 1 of this multi-part podcast, we cover a few topics, including the basics of how to learn drill, and creating an environment where your students are willing to take risks for the sake of their own improvement, among other side-topics and “rabbit trails”.  I had a great time chatting with John, and I hope you’ll have a good time listening in!