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5 Best Band Podcasts to Follow While Social Distancing Banner Image

5 Best Band Podcasts to Follow While Social Distancing

by Stephen Escobar
Performance Trip

As the daily news reports come out, I snuggle deeper into my couch knowing I’ll be here for a while. I’ve already searched new recipes, scoured Facebook for fun things to do and binged my favorite shows. If you’re like me, you’re probably looking for something else to keep you occupied so you don’t dwell on the spring cleaning that needs to be done. Take advantage of this time of social distancing and tune into a podcast! Here are 5 best band podcasts while we work to flatten the curve.

After Sectionals

Most band directors are familiar with the voice behind the wildly popular podcast, After Sectionals. Darcy Williams is a no-nonsense director and dispenser of valuable advice. She shares the microphone with two colleagues, Jenna Yee and Alex Ortega. Each brings a unique perspective to the band experience. Together, they share their adventures, lessons learned and common-sense guidance with band directors everywhere. First-year directors and seasoned veterans alike have found After Sectionals to be a great resource for instruction.

Podcast topics dive deep into the world of classroom management, motivation and even “staph” development (very clever!). They discuss the nuts and bolts of competition ratings, the value of mentors, managing expectations and successfully navigating a home-work balance.

Meet Darcy Williams from After Sectionals

Everything Band

Mark J. Connor is a composer, conductor and educator focused on writing for concert bands. His music has been published and performed at some of the top venues in the world. He’s also the talent for Everything Band. His podcast features in-depth conversations with leaders in the concert band, wind ensemble, and marching arts communities.

Mark brings his 20+ years of experience to the microphone during his weekly show. His episodes are packed with great advice, compelling stories and helpful resources for music educators.

Marching Roundtable

Tim Hinton hosts this twice-weekly podcast focused primarily on marching band, drum corps, indoor percussion and color guard. Technique, drill, motivation, and communication are just a few of the highlights. Heads up- Marching Roundtable membership requires a $2 subscription, but you get a lot of “bang” for your buck.

The Bandmasters

The Bandmasters podcast is hosted primarily by Don Stinson, Director of Bands at Joliet Central High School in Illinois. Don has the distinct honor of serving as only the 5th director in the band’s 107-year history.

Don’s podcast style is easy to listen to, easy to follow as he chats with distinguished and interesting guests. Topics include technology, maintaining a quality program and building connections with students. Each is designed as a mini professional development session for band directors!

The Band Director’s Lounge

You know that feeling you get when you’re in a room with colleagues and the ideas just flow? That’s the inspiration behind The Band Director’s Lounge. The goal of this podcast is to find out what makes successful programs work! Interviews, reviews and more- the host wades through all your burning questions. If you’re looking for some great ideas as you build your instrumental program, check out The Band Director’s Lounge.

During these long days of social distancing, podcasts are a great way to educate and entertain. Skip the spring cleaning and stay focused on the future – these 5 best band podcasts will keep your creative juices flowing!

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