The Unconducted Curriculum

Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Music

Featuring veteran band directors, Chris McLellan and Tina Parr, the Unconducted Curriculum Podcast discusses everything the school band director faces "off the podium." From administrative duties to dealing with upset parents, we tackle the issues that aren't usually discussed in this medium. With high school band as well as student teacher supervisor perspectives from Chris and middle school perspectives from TIna, there is something for all levels of band directing. Come enjoy a lighthearted conversation between friends of 27 years as well as invited guests and see what the "Unconducted Curriculum" is all about! This podcast will feature guests on a regular basis.

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 13: Level Up! Part 2 From Proficient to Distinguished Transforming Teaching in the Band Hall

    The conversation focuses on effective teaching practices in band settings, emphasizing the importance of establishing routines, managing student behavior, and fostering a culture of excellence. The discussion also highlights the role of student leadership and the need for clear expectations and communication in both concert and marching band environments. The conversation focuses on effective teaching strategies for music educators, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with students, maintaining an organized rehearsal space, and managing student behavior. Key themes include positive reinforcement, classroom culture, and the significance of engaging students actively in their learning process. The conversation focuses on effective teaching strategies and classroom culture in music education, emphasizing the importance of modeling professionalism and fostering a supportive learning environment. The speakers discuss the significance of self-reflection, goal setting, and building relationships within the school community to enhance student learning and engagement. Takeaways Establish clear routinesFoster student leadership Positive reinforcement is essentialOrganized rehearsal spaces enhance learning Model professionalism in teachingFoster a supportive classroom culture Chapters 00:00 Creating a Culture of Excellence03:05 Establishing Effective Routines06:03 The Importance of Student Engagement09:11 Managing Student Behavior12:02 Enhancing Communication and Expectations14:55 Empowering Student Leadership22:00 Building Relationships Through Positive Reinforcement22:58 Creating an Organized Rehearsal Space25:58 Managing Student Behavior Effectively28:54 Establishing Clear Expectations31:54 Maintaining Professionalism in Communication34:51 Reinforcing Positive Behavior38:02 Fostering a Supportive Classroom Culture40:54 Encouraging Active Engagement in Learning43:45 Balancing Instruction and Engagement46:36 Creating a Respectful Classroom Culture49:44 The Role of Mistakes in Learning51:23 Professional Practices for Educators58:42 Reflecting on Teaching Strategies

  2. Oct 22

    Episode 12: From proficient to Distinguished: Transforming Teaching in the Rehearsal Hall

    The conversation focuses on enhancing teaching effectiveness in band and orchestra settings by evaluating rehearsals based on student learning rather than merely music coverage. It emphasizes the importance of structured planning, student engagement, and the application of the T test rubric to improve instructional practices. The conversation focuses on effective teaching strategies for music educators, emphasizing the importance of structured assessments, targeted feedback, and student engagement in rehearsals. Chris and Tina discuss methods for improving student accountability, providing immediate feedback, and creating a supportive learning environment that fosters individual growth. The conversation focuses on effective teaching strategies for music educators, emphasizing the importance of student engagement, differentiation, and classroom management. Key insights include the use of modeling, questioning techniques, and the significance of creating a supportive learning environment. Takeaways Focus on student learningUtilize T-TESS rubric effectively Structured assessments enhance learningImmediate feedback drives improvement Engagement enhances learningDifferentiation is crucial for success Chapters 00:00 Evaluating Rehearsals: A New Perspective02:23 Understanding the T-TESS Rubric04:19 The Role of Administrators in Observations07:17 Setting Goals for Effective Rehearsals11:50 Planning with Purpose: Effective Rehearsals21:07 Data and Assessment: Measuring Student Progress24:44 Effective Assessment Strategies30:24 Targeted Feedback for Growth37:56 Planning for Effective Rehearsals38:26 Creating a Student-Centered Environment46:07 Utilizing Technology in Music Education47:11 Modeling and Demonstration Techniques48:47 Anticipating Student Challenges49:43 Effective Questioning Strategies50:53 Promoting Active Participation53:18 Differentiation in Instruction56:16 Monitoring and Adjusting Teaching Strategies01:00:02 Encouraging Student Independence

  3. Oct 15

    Episode 11: Guest, Eric Rath Keeping the Momentum; Motivating Students Post Region Marching Contest

    In this episode, Chris McLellan and Eric Rath discuss strategies for maintaining student motivation in band programs, particularly after regional contests. They explore the transition from the excitement of the new school year to the challenges of maintaining engagement and motivation as the season progresses, emphasizing the importance of leadership, daily goals, and keeping rehearsals fresh. The conversation explores the importance of creating a supportive environment for students in band programs, balancing competition with intrinsic motivation, and utilizing video for self-evaluation and improvement. The speakers share personal experiences and strategies to foster a positive culture and encourage student ownership in their musical journey. The conversation explores various strategies for enhancing student engagement and performance in marching band, focusing on the use of video for feedback, maintaining high standards while preventing burnout, challenging complacency, and building a legacy within the band program. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by band directors, particularly focusing on burnout, self-care, and effective strategies for motivating students. It emphasizes the importance of reflection and prioritization in maintaining a healthy balance between personal well-being and professional responsibilities. Takeaways Motivation requires active engagementLegacy building enhances student involvement Supportive environments enhance motivationBalance competition with personal growth Effective use of video feedbackBalancing high standards with student well-being Self-care is essential for directorsPrioritize tasks to avoid burnout Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Motivation in Band02:53 The Transition from September to October06:00 Recognizing Student Fatigue vs. Loss of Motivation09:01 Building Legacy and Leadership in Students11:59 The Importance of Daily Goals14:51 Setting Weekly Goals and Leadership Involvement17:55 Keeping Rehearsals Fresh and Engaging23:40 Creating a Supportive Ecosystem29:22 Balancing Competition and Motivation39:03 Harnessing the Power of Video for Self-Evaluation42:39 Utilizing Video for Improvement44:54 Maintaining High Standards Without Burnout53:00 Challenging the 'Good Enough' Mentality01:02:04 Building a Legacy and Embracing Change01:05:19 Navigating Director Burnout01:11:15 Prioritizing Self-Care for Directors01:15:30 Effective Strategies for Student Motivation01:19:58 Reflecting on the Season's Lessons

  4. Oct 8

    Episode 10: Off the Podium Strategies for Classroom Management

    The conversation focuses on effective classroom management strategies for band directors, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, establishing procedures, and fostering student ownership in their learning environment. Chris and Tina discuss how these elements contribute to a positive classroom atmosphere and ultimately lead to better student behavior and engagement. The conversation focuses on effective classroom management and rehearsal techniques for music educators, emphasizing the importance of organization, student engagement, and the power of proximity in maintaining discipline and focus during rehearsals. The conversation focuses on effective classroom management strategies for music educators, emphasizing the importance of consistency, communication, and understanding individual student needs. Key themes include establishing daily procedures, correcting behavior without embarrassment, and fostering positive relationships with students and parents. Takeaways Build relationships with studentsEstablish clear procedures Effective classroom management techniquesImportance of student engagement Consistency is keyBuild relationships with students Chapters 00:00 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment03:10 The Importance of Relationships06:09 Management vs. Control09:00 Building Student Ownership12:00 Establishing Effective Procedures15:00 Consistency in Classroom Management17:56 Engaging Students from the Start21:02 Creating a Calm and Organized Space24:07 The Role of Procedures in Efficiency27:28 Organizing the Classroom for Success30:09 Setting the Tone for Rehearsals35:39 Enhancing Rehearsal Structure44:03 The Power of Proximity in Teaching49:32 Non-Verbal Communication Techniques50:01 Establishing Daily Procedures51:12 Observational Skills in Teaching52:40 Correcting Behavior Effectively54:59 Engaging Students in Their Learning56:45 Understanding Fair vs. Equal Responses01:01:40 The Importance of Staff Consistency01:10:12 Effective Parent Communication

  5. Oct 1

    Episode 9: The degree gets you in the door, but the real education begins when the door closes

    In this episode, recent graduates share their experiences transitioning from music education programs to real-world teaching, highlighting the unexpected challenges they faced. The discussion covers essential topics such as classroom management, communication with parents, and the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of teaching. The conversation delves into the experiences of music educators as they navigate teaching challenges, parent interactions, and strategies for recruiting and retaining students in band programs. Key insights include the importance of modeling behavior, effective communication with parents, and proactive recruitment strategies to foster a love for music among students. The conversation explores various strategies for engaging students in music programs, effective recruitment methods, and the importance of creating a positive band culture. Additionally, the participants share humorous anecdotes from their teaching experiences and offer valuable advice for aspiring music educators. The conversation delves into the experiences and insights of music educators, focusing on the importance of secondary instruments, teaching methods, self-care, the rewards of teaching, and suggestions for better preparing future band directors. Participants share personal anecdotes and practical advice for navigating the challenges of music education. Takeaways Real-world teaching challengesImportance of mentorship Modeling behavior is crucialEffective communication builds trust Engagement is key to recruitmentBuilding a positive culture is essential Embrace learning secondary instrumentsSelf-care is crucial for educators Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Transition from College to Classroom05:45 Realities of Classroom Management and Communication07:55 Establishing Expectations and Standards14:53 Learning Through Mentorship and Collaboration20:30 Classroom Management Strategies and Techniques26:04 Modeling Excellence in Teaching27:37 Navigating Classroom Challenges36:45 Effective Communication with Parents51:48 Recruiting and Retaining Students58:34 Engaging Students Through Instrument Petting Zoos01:00:16 Effective Recruitment Strategies for Music Programs01:04:52 Building a Fun and Inclusive Band Culture01:08:31 Learning from Performance Disasters01:20:53 Advice for Future Music Educators01:25:40 Exploring Secondary Instruments01:27:20 Teaching Beyond Your Primary Instrument01:33:00 The Importance of Self-Care for Educators01:35:21 The Rewards of Teaching Music01:39:12 Preparing Future Band Directors

  6. Sep 24

    Episode 8: Guest, Jarred Dodd - Beginning Band Check-up

    The conversation with Jared Dodd focuses on the importance of the first few weeks in a beginning band program, emphasizing the significance of procedures, routines, and instrument basics. Jared shares insights on establishing a positive and engaging environment for beginners, as well as the challenges and strategies for managing instrument supplies and communication with parents. The conversation covers topics related to the process of delivering and managing musical instruments for students, the timeline for students to start using their instruments, and the importance of scaffolding and pacing in music education. It also delves into the accountability and practice methods for beginners and advanced students, emphasizing the importance of consistency and ownership in practice routines. The conversation covers the September checkpoint for beginner band students, the use of visual tools like tuners and buzzing tools, and the importance of mentorship and asking questions. It also emphasizes the need for consistent procedures, intentional pacing, high expectations, positive reinforcement, and a culture that makes students want to belong in building a successful beginning band program. Takeaways Procedures and routines are crucial in setting the foundation for a successful beginning band program.Effective communication with parents and consistent reminders are essential for ensuring students have the necessary instrument supplies and equipment. Instrument delivery and managementScaffolding and pacing in music educationAccountability and practice methods September checkpoint for beginner band studentsUse of visual tools like tuners and buzzing toolsImportance of mentorship and asking questionsConsistent procedures, intentional pacing, high expectations, positive reinforcement, and a culture that makes students want to belong are key in building a successful beginning band program Chapters 00:00 Setting the Foundation01:21 Procedures and Routines17:29 Instrument Supplies and Communication24:03 Instrument Delivery and Management25:26 Scaffolding and Pacing in Music Education37:45 Accountability and Practice Methods52:04 September Checkpoint for Beginner Band Students56:05 Use of Visual Tools and Tuners01:08:27 Importance of Mentorship and Asking Questions01:13:14 Building a Successful Beginning Band Program

  7. Sep 17

    Episode 7: Practice Not Pressure

    The conversation explores the importance of practice outside of class, emphasizing the development of muscle memory, rhythm confidence, sound awareness, independence, and rehearsal success. Specific instructions for practice, including what to practice, how, and at what tempo, are highlighted as crucial for effective practice sessions. The conversation delves into the strategies for encouraging practice and ownership, the importance of family involvement and support, and effective grading and assessment strategies. It emphasizes positive reinforcement and the role of parents and family in the practice process, as well as the implementation of innovative grading and assessment methods to promote student engagement and accountability. The conversation explores the strategies for encouraging students to practice at home, the role of parents in supporting practice, the CLEAR model for effective practice, and the importance of reflection and ownership in practice. It emphasizes creating a safe and enjoyable environment for practice and recognizing progress as key elements in fostering a positive practice experience. Takeaways Practice outside of class is essential for developing muscle memory, rhythm confidence, sound awareness, independence, and rehearsal success.Providing specific instructions for practice, including what to practice, how, and at what tempo, is crucial for effective practice sessions. Encouraging practice through positive reinforcementInvolving parents and family in the practice process Encouraging students to practice by creating a safe and enjoyable environmentThe importance of recognizing progress and celebrating improvement Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Practice Outside of Class02:09 Creating a Practice Plan03:13 Developing Muscle Memory and Rhythm Confidence10:33 Independence and Rehearsal Success25:28 The 30-Minute Practice Myth26:11 Encouraging Practice and Ownership41:04 Family Involvement and Support50:04 Grading and Assessment Strategies54:31 Encouraging Practice at Home58:51 The Role of Parents in Practice01:08:24 The CLEAR Model for Effective Practice01:16:11 Reflection and Ownership in Practice

  8. Sep 10

    Episode 6: Guest, Dexx Moore - Creating an Effective and Efficient Marching Band Rehearsal

    The episode discusses effective marching band rehearsal techniques, emphasizing the importance of intentional and efficient use of time. It covers the planning process, rehearsal expectations, and student responsibilities, focusing on performance-like rehearsals and detailed procedures. The conversation covers the importance of marching fundamentals and the incorporation of targeted marching exercises into daily rehearsals. It emphasizes the need for efficient use of time and the application of fundamentals to the drill. The conversation delves into the importance of applying fundamentals to drill, working on different step sizes, and incorporating music rehearsal time. It also explores the significance of listening to the band on the move, isolating parts for focused practice, and building confidence in individual sections. The conversation focuses on the approach to teaching and rehearsing marching band drill, emphasizing individual responsibility, consistency, and process-oriented learning. It also highlights the importance of quality over quantity, targeted instruction, and effective rehearsal sequences. The conversation delves into the importance of effective rehearsal strategies in marching band programs. It emphasizes the need for concise corrections, clear goals, and targeted rehearsals. The role of coaching and motivation in addition to teaching is highlighted, along with the significance of adapting and pivoting when necessary. Takeaways Intentional and efficient use of time is crucial for effective marching band rehearsals.Performance-like rehearsals and detailed procedures are essential for maintaining high standards and achieving goals. Efficient use of time is crucial in incorporating marching fundamentals into daily rehearsals.Applying the fundamentals to the drill is essential for a cohesive performance. Fundamentals must be applied to drill for effective performance.Listening to the band on the move provides valuable insights into the quality of the performance.Isolating parts for focused practice helps build confidence and self-worth in individual sections. Individual responsibilityConsistencyQuality over quantityTargeted instructionEffective rehearsal sequences Concise correctionsClear goalsAdaptability and pivotingCoaching and motivation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Effective Marching Band Rehearsals01:15 Planning for Marching Band Rehearsals03:15 Daily Lesson Plan and Coordination04:15 Rehearsal Goals and Time Allocation04:59 Measurable Goals and Specific Rehearsal Objectives07:28 Informing Students of Rehearsal Goals11:30 Rehearsal Expectations and Procedures14:02 Teaching Rehearsal Expectations16:07 Maintaining Student Focus and Participation17:42 Effective Marching Fundamentals26:39 Incorporating Fundamentals into Daily Routine33:10 Incorporating Music Rehearsal Time35:20 Listening to the Band on the Move36:14 Isolating Parts for Focused Practice44:13 Individual Responsibility and Consistency53:17 Effective Rehearsal Sequences01:03:26 Effective Rehearsal Strategies in Marching Band Programs01:08:15 Common Rehearsal Pitfalls and Solutions01:14:07 An Effective Rehearsal Formula01:16:27 Closing Thoughts and Challenges

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Ratings & Reviews

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About

Featuring veteran band directors, Chris McLellan and Tina Parr, the Unconducted Curriculum Podcast discusses everything the school band director faces "off the podium." From administrative duties to dealing with upset parents, we tackle the issues that aren't usually discussed in this medium. With high school band as well as student teacher supervisor perspectives from Chris and middle school perspectives from TIna, there is something for all levels of band directing. Come enjoy a lighthearted conversation between friends of 27 years as well as invited guests and see what the "Unconducted Curriculum" is all about! This podcast will feature guests on a regular basis.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • Show Website
    The Unconducted Curriculum

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