Band Room Therapy

Ryan Ashley
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

Join our panel of directors as we share a laugh and shine a light on our own band rooms.

  1. 1d ago

    Measure 17B: Our Repertoire Responsibility (Middle School)

    The wrong music can wreck a middle school band year. The right music can transform bored kids into confident players, and this conversation shows you exactly how to tell the difference before you hand out a single part.Rachel Allen sits down with Jordan White, Jeff Simpson, and Randall Standridge for a sharp, practical conversation about choosing repertoire that actually works for middle school ensembles. If you teach band and you’ve ever stared at a score wondering whether it will inspire your students or crush them, this episode is for you.Rachel brings 22 years of middle school band experience from Charlestown, West Virginia, and frames the real-world challenges directors face when selecting music for young players. Jordan White, in his fifth year teaching grades 5-12 in Missouri, shares a newer director’s perspective on finding music that keeps students engaged while still challenging them. Jeff Simpson, with 28 years in middle school band in Michigan, offers the seasoned classroom lens on what makes a piece teachable, musical, and worth returning to year after year. Randall Standridge, a former band director turned full-time composer and publisher, brings the insider view from both sides of the stand and explains how great writing for percussion, low brass, and every section can make or break a selection.You’ll discover:Why percussion writing matters far more than just "having a lot of percussion"How to make sure every section, especially low brass, has meaningful music to playWhy the best concert music also helps you teach specific concepts like syncopation, dotted quarter notes, and sixteenth notesHow to judge whether a piece matches your actual ensemble instead of the grade number on the coverWhat to look for in beginning band music when publishers label everything "beginner"Why chamber music, duets, trios, and rote teaching can accelerate growth more than relying on concert repertoire aloneThe conversation also gets real about the practical stuff directors deal with all year long - small budgets, uneven instrumentation, changing class structures, busy student schedules, and the pressure to keep every child engaged. Randall makes a powerful case that repertoire is not just about programming a concert, it’s about curating the student experience and shaping what young musicians believe they can do.If you’ve ever chosen a piece that was too hard, too easy, or just plain wrong for the group in front of you, this episode will feel like a masterclass in programming with intention. Essential listening for middle school directors, new teachers, and anyone who wants better concerts and better musicians.Sponsors:sightreadingfactory.comhttps://geni.us/bettersaxclassicsaxThebandblueprint.net00:00 - Opening the discussion on middle school band repertoire01:04 - Meet the guests and their teaching backgrounds05:21 - Choosing music that keeps the director interested too08:31 - Repertoire selection as curating the student experience10:29 - The old days of buying music without hearing or seeing scores12:27 - Dotted quarter notes, sectional coverage, and teachable moments16:47 - Low percussion numbers and fitting the ensemble you have18:38 - Section stereotypes and unexpected behavior in ensembles22:42 - How different beginners can be from year to year30:10 - Chamber music and etudes as part of repertoire growth34:17 - Stories of pieces that were too hard at concert or festival39:21 - Rachel’s own example of choosing festival music that was too advanced43:39 - Playing through individual parts to test difficulty49:22 - Mechanical Monsters and the concert D flat debate57:50 - Choosing a harder piece that still became a meaningful memory61:52 - Pushback against the idea that certain composers should be avoided65:24 - Thinking about concert shape and emotional pacing69:24 - Why visibility matters for students#band #banddirector #bandroomtherapy #musiceducation

  2. 4d ago

    Arkansas: State of Band

    Arkansas bands run on a system that is tighter, more collaborative, and more demanding than most states - and this episode reveals exactly how it works. If you’ve ever wondered how a state can build strong marching, concert, jazz, and honor ensemble opportunities while keeping directors connected across huge rural distances, this conversation gives you the inside look.Host Mrs. Allen talks with Mr. Ashley and Kara Reynolds, two Arkansas band leaders who break down the state’s unique structure - from ASBOA and AAA to the Arkansas Small Band Association, Arkansas Marching Arts Association, and Arkansas Jazz Educators. They explain why geography shapes everything, how regions are drawn, and why some schools may drive hours just to audition or compete.You’ll discover: How Arkansas organizes nine regions and why those lines may need to be redrawn as schools growThe difference between region-level events and state-level eventsWhy Arkansas uses in-person auditions with anonymous judging screensHow classifications determine repertoire difficulty and why some schools must meet higher concert assessment standardsWhat honor ensemble looks like in Arkansas, and why junior high and high school pathways work so differentlyMr. Ashley and Kara also open up about the culture behind the system - the expectation that directors serve each other, judge each other, mentor each other, and show up for students no matter how many weekends it takes. That spirit helps explain why Arkansas has such a strong pipeline of homegrown band directors, retired mentors, and lifelong advocates for music education.If you’re a band director, a music educator, or just curious how another state builds a rigorous but supportive band culture, this one is packed with practical insight. It is especially valuable if your own state is debating classifications, audition formats, regional structure, or how to keep students challenged without losing sight of the human side of the work. Sponsors: Sightreadingfactory.com https://geni.us/bettersaxclassicsax 0:00 Introduction1:16 Arkansas Band Organizations5:02 Regions and State Geography7:09 Director Community and Professional Development10:18 Grade Levels and Event Eligibility14:46 The Arkansas Band Calendar19:00 Auditions: In Person, Blind, and Regional23:33 Travel Expectations for Events26:29 Qualifying for All-State29:49 Honor Ensembles and State Concert Contest35:19 Classifications, Standards, and Required Repertoire42:30 Jazz, Ensembles, and Music Lists46:20 Serving the State Band Community48:00 Band Director Retention in Arkansas51:14 Retirement and the Network of Former Directors54:34 Closing #stateofband #bandroomtherapy #bandroom #Arkansas #Arkansasbands

    Arkansas: State of Band

  3. Aug 13

    Measure 17A: Our Repertoire Responsibility (Jazz Band)

    Picking jazz rep is where great jazz bands are made - or quietly held back. The wrong chart can flatten your section, frustrate your rhythm players, and kill momentum fast. The right one can build confidence, teach style, and turn a mixed lineup into a band that swings.On this panel, Mr. Ashley is joined by Kyle Smith, Keith Heim, and Trent Warner to break down how experienced directors choose repertoire that fits real school ensembles - not idealized ones. They get into the practical decisions that matter most when you open a chart at a convention, from brass range and trombone register to rhythm section demands, orchestration thickness, and whether a tune is actually playable with your current kids.You'll discover how these directors handle nontraditional instrumentation, why blues is such a powerful teaching tool across every level, and how to balance swing, Latin, rock, ballads, and standards without losing your audience or your students. They also share how they think about improvisation, written solos, student suggestions, and the difference between a chart that looks easy and one that actually rehearses well.Just as importantly, this episode makes the case for active listening, flexible programming, and building jazz culture in a way that includes more kids instead of narrowing the field. If you're a director who wants to choose better charts, stretch your ensemble without overwhelming it, and keep your program musically alive, this conversation is full of immediately useful ideas.Perfect for jazz directors, band directors new to improvisation, and anyone trying to program a concert that is both educational and exciting to play.00:00 - Why this is the first of a three-part jazz rep series00:58 - Kyle Smith, Keith Hyme, and Trent Warner introduce their jazz programs02:30 - How each director evaluates ensemble strengths and weaknesses03:44 - Matching charts to the exact band you have04:49 - Trent’s auditioned high school jazz setup and feeder program approach06:16 - What to do when your instrumentation is unusual or unbalanced07:27 - Keith on welcoming nontraditional players and building beginners into jazz08:53 - Why bringing in everyone can create more doublers later09:49 - Jazz as a way to make students well rounded and connected to American music history11:53 - First things to check on a chart: trumpet range, trombone range, and rhythm parts13:47 - Why guitar voicings, chord changes, and bass lines matter for beginner groups15:57 - Choosing composers and keeping program history balanced17:49 - Knowing when a chart is too easy or too hard for your students19:23 - Why easier charts can still build style, confidence, and exposure21:49 - Starting with simpler music and hearing students grow over a semester22:42 - What a well rounded jazz concert should include24:16 - Programming for your audience, not just for festival judging26:23 - Matching chart choice to audience and occasion28:21 - Why the blues is foundational to jazz style and history32:15 - How much student input should shape repertoire choices35:31 - How much improvisation should be in a concert program37:57 - Directors asking for help with improv teaching39:09 - How different directors handle written solos with their students42:23 - When a written solo is essentially part of the chart’s tradition44:52 - How to spread solos around without overloading the audience48:18 - The teacher’s role in creating positive early improv experiences50:16 - Balancing audience enjoyment with giving everyone solo opportunities52:52 - Cutting tunes when the solo section makes the concert too long55:41 - Stretching yourself as a teacher by learning unfamiliar jazz styles57:52 - Starter chart recommendations for younger groups66:53 - Closing encouragement for directors choosing jazz repSPONSORS:Sight Reading Factory SightReadingFactory.com #band #banddirector #bandroomtherapy #musiceducation

  4. Aug 6

    Measure 16: You Got the Job: Now What?

    First-year band directors often feel like they're drowning in a sea of keys, schedules, and unspoken community rules—the chaos is real but manageable. In this candid episode, experienced teachers share their rawest first-year stories, revealing how a little guidance, some humor, and a lot of humility can turn overwhelm into confidence. From navigating unexpected student behaviors to surviving the first school day with a crumpled warm-up plan, these veterans show you that you’re not alone—and that it’s okay to screw up sometimes. You’ll discover: How to set your expectations before day one, including essential procedures and community culture. The truth about over-preparing—what actually helps and what wastes your time in those frantic first weeks. The vital role mentors and community support play, plus practical tips for forging connections with colleagues, admin, and even the custodians. The importance of building your personal "non-negotiables" and staying true to your authentic teaching style amid the chaos. Why you should prioritize relationship-building over perfection, and how to recover when students challenge your authority. This episode isn’t just about surviving your first job—it’s about setting the stage to thrive. Whether you’re just starting out, switching districts, or looking for reassurance that you’re doing okay, these stories will inspire you to embrace the mess and find joy in the journey. Plus, learn from seasoned teachers about the small but mighty routines that can save your sanity—from creating simple student surveys to knowing who to call when chaos strikes. And if you're hesitant to reach out, you’ll be encouraged to ask for help, develop your community, and understand that you are enough in this wild world of music education. Ready to turn first-day fears into first-year wins? Tune in, because every teacher needs a little bandroom therapy—and this episode offers the wisdom, humor, and solidarity to keep you going. 00:00 - Introduction: first memories and overwhelm as a new band director 02:19 - Overcoming initial overwhelm: handling syllabus, music selection, and administrative tasks 03:36 - Early thoughts on getting in and setting the tone for the year 04:39 - The chaos of keys, junk, and clutter in your first band room 06:04 - Personal stories about small-school teaching and the challenge of starting from scratch 07:10 - Over-preparing in your first year: what to focus on and what to let go 08:54 - Essential preparations before students walk in on day one—room setup, schedules, budgets 12:04 - How to balance concert content with procedural information 13:18 - The pitfalls of over-planning rehearsals and paperwork overload 15:01 - The importance of understanding community and student demographics 17:47 - Building confidence and being authentic as a teacher 19:31 - Reflecting on what you would do differently if you could redo your first days 21:11 - Finding your teaching style and personality in a challenging environment 23:47 - Key advice from mentors and valuing their support 28:00 - Essential first-day preparations: knowing concert dates and school procedures 31:33 - The significance of understanding your school’s policies and culture 36:08 - Setting your vibe, expectations, and establishing non-negotiables 38:02 - The importance of being a teacher first and maintaining professional boundaries 41:43 - Handling student behavior: authentic communication and fair boundaries 47:25 - An item you wish you had before day one—planning curricula or essential tools 55:11 - Building a support system: mentors, colleagues, and community connections 70:23 - Making the first impression memorable and genuine with students 77:52 - The value of returning to familiar institutions and maintaining connections 87:43 - Final advice for navigating change and building your professional community #band #banddirector #bandroomtherapy #musiceducation

  5. Aug 3

    Arizona: State of Band

    Arizona’s band community isn’t just about sunshine and deserts; it’s a vibrant, organized ecosystem packed with unique traditions, competitive circuits, and innovative ensembles that could inspire educators nationwide. Jackson Snyder and Nate Conell, two experienced band directors from Scottsdale and Phoenix, reveal how Arizona’s comprehensive structure and diverse competitions are shaping the future of high school music programs.In this candid conversation, you’ll discover how Arizona manages its statewide music governance through AMEA, Ebota, AZMBA, and new regional circuits, ensuring both unity and opportunities for even the most remote schools. Jackson and Nate break down how classifications are based strictly on size, not geography—a departure from many states' practices—and explain how performances are scored in both marching and concert contexts with a focus on numbers and ratings.You’ll learn about the extensive calendar of events—from the start of the school year in August, through fall competitions, to state finals in November—covering everything from marching band semifinals to Allstate, solo and ensemble, jazz, and even the emerging mariachi ensembles. Curious about audition processes? They detail how students prepare for Allstate ensembles, the specifics of scales, sight-reading, and repertoire selection, plus the innovative virtual components that are reshaping audition standards.For anyone passionate about excellence in high school music, this episode offers a blueprint of Arizona’s unique approach—highlighting community support, safety in hot climates, and a culture that celebrates diverse ensembles. Whether you’re in Arizona, looking to emulate their success, or simply interested in how states craft their musical identities, this conversation delivers actionable insights and inspiring stories.Tune in to explore how Arizona’s vibrant, inclusive, and fiercely competitive band landscape is helping students thrive and communities unite through music. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from two passionate educators who truly love their state’s musical spirit. Jackson Snyder is the director of Band and Orchestras at Desert Mountain High School, Scottsdale, known for his extensive experience and leadership in regional circuits. Nate Conell is the director of instrumental music at Arcadia High School, Phoenix, recognized for fostering innovative ensembles and community engagement.0:00 Introduction1:39 Arizona’s music organizations2:50 Regional structure across the state4:04 How AMEA and ABODA support programs6:07 Eligibility and out-of-state competitions7:39 Marching band classifications9:18 Arizona’s annual band calendar15:55 Marching band competitions and championships18:32 Concert band festivals and ratings20:06 All-State Band auditions and process23:48 All-State Jazz, Orchestra, Choir, and Guitar27:12 Solo and Ensemble Festival29:36 What makes Arizona band special #stateofband #bandroomtherapy #bandroom #Arizona #ArizonaBands

    Arizona: State of Band

  6. Jul 30

    Measure 15: Add Some Hobbies to Your Life!

    Most teachers feel like they have no time for hobbies—but what if your favorite pastime could actually make you a better educator? In this episode of Band Room Therapy, middle school band teachers from Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Mississippi share how their personal passions—ranging from Lego building to running, painting, and organizing—transform their teaching lives and connect them more deeply with students.Discover how hobbies provide vital mental escapes for busy educators, helping to reduce stress, combat burnout, and foster genuine relationships with students. You'll hear stories about balancing seasonal interests like outdoor walking, baking sourdough, and dancing, with how these activities sharpen leadership, spark creativity, and encourage student engagement. We break down the crucial role hobbies play in defining a teacher's identity beyond the classroom and explore the fine line between work and personal life—plus tips for setting healthy boundaries.In this conversation, you'll find out why practices like classroom arts and crafts, music, or organizing tasks might seem like work but can actually serve as meaningful, stress-relieving hobbies that boost your well-being. We also delve into the importance of shared personal interests in building trust with students, and how teachers have navigated the challenge of managing time and expectations in a demanding profession.Amid the deep talk about burnout, legacy, and the future of teaching careers, this episode offers a powerful reminder: nurturing your passions outside of work isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether you're a band director feeling overwhelmed or an educator craving a fresh perspective, you'll walk away with insights on how hobbies can fuel your joy, enhance your teaching, and remind you why you fell in love with music and education in the first place.Perfect for teachers, arts educators, or anyone whose job is their passion—tune in to discover how your personal hobbies can become the secret ingredient to a more balanced, fulfilling career. Because when you prioritize your well-being, your students—and your sense of purpose—will thank you. 00:00 - Welcome and overview of the episode's focus on hobbies outside of teaching02:03 - First hobbies: arts, crafts, and collecting pets03:01 - The value of seasonal hobbies like reading, running, and dancing04:26 - Personal stories about aquariums, frogs, and class pets06:39 - Teachers' current main hobbies: running, reading, Lego building, and weightlifting08:49 - Book clubs, movie adaptations, and summer reading routines11:19 - Creative hobbies: Lego plants and organizing sports cards13:41 - The importance of hobbies as a mental escape from the chaos of teaching16:24 - Seasonal hobbies and the concept of hobby hopping17:01 - The influence of seasonal changes on hobbies like running and dancing18:28 - Defining "cold" and "hot" seasons for outdoor activities19:55 - Balancing work hours, work-life boundaries, and avoiding burnout22:06 - The challenges of managing classroom logistics and school responsibilities23:35 - Teachers' feelings of guilt around taking personal time26:03 - Reflection on legacy, program building, and what life might look like without teaching29:40 - The blurred line between hobbies and work, and maintaining boundaries32:45 - The importance of advocating for oneself and balancing workload36:14 - How hobbies help in classroom relationship building and student engagement40:37 - Using arts and crafts to enhance classroom environment and teacher identity45:04 - The role of hobbies in developing a more human connection with students50:01 - Imagining life beyond music education: alternative careers and passions54:55 - Future career aspirations: events planning, interior design, or advocacy62:01 - The importance of managing time, expectations, and career longevity67:36 - Final thoughts and gratitude from the hosts #band #banddirector #bandroomtherapy #musiceducation

  7. Jul 23

    Measure 14: "Buzzing" Your Way to Success

    Unlock the secrets to launching your brass section with confidence and ease! Whether you're a veteran teacher or new to the game, this episode reveals practical, proven strategies to develop beginner brass players from day one — all while keeping it engaging and organized. Don’t miss out on expert insights that can turn chaos into organized joy right in your classroom.Imagine starting your first week with students excited to make noise—without chaos—and knowing exactly what to do on day one. From managing instrument prep to harnessing the power of rote teaching, we break down how top educators lay a solid foundation. Discover the importance of instrument anatomy, case opening techniques, and simple routines that prevent damage and build confidence. Learn how to incorporate fun games, call-and-response exercises, and innovative drills like lip slurs and breath control to enhance tone quality and muscle development.You'll discover:How to effectively prepare students before they even touch their instruments, including breathing exercises and maintenance routines.The benefits of rote learning for pitch, tone, and ear training—especially vital for brass.Best practices for instrument-specific start points and how to handle tricky instruments like French horn and tuba.How to create early success stories, making every student feel accomplished—plus, practical tips on mouthpiece selection, case handling, and articulation strategies.Techniques to boost pitch accuracy and teach key partials using gamified call-and-response and visual cues.Debates and insights on buzzing vs. non-buzzing warmups, helping students develop muscle memory and sound production without confusion.Troubleshooting common issues like pinched sounds, hand positioning, and slide finesse, with tips straight from seasoned pros.Why does this matter? Missing these foundational steps can lead to frustration and damaged instruments, but with the right approach, you nurture confident, technically sound brass players from the start. This episode arms you with the tools to build a strong, motivated brass section that’s prepared for the repertoire ahead.Perfect for middle and high school band directors, private teachers, and music education enthusiasts eager to improve their brass onboarding process—this episode offers actionable tips and expert perspectives to elevate your teaching game. Tune in, learn, and watch your brass section thrive!#band #banddirector #bandroomtherapy #musiceducation ⁨

  8. Jul 20

    State of Band: Alaska

    Alaska might be the last frontier, but it’s got a surprising and vibrant music education scene you’ve likely never heard of — until now. In this episode, two Alaskan band directors break down what it’s really like to teach music in one of the most remote and rugged states, revealing how they keep their programs alive and thriving despite geographic isolation and unique logistical challenges. You’ll discover how Alaska manages its statewide competitions, the quirks of its regional divisions, and how students from tiny towns connect for all-state events without roads or railroads. Christian and Tyler share insider insights on audition processes that involve recording etudes from afar, the rarity of marching band competitions, and the fascinating way they organize solo and ensemble festivals in a state where “in-person” means airplanes and ferries. They break down how small schools compete at a unified state level with no tiers for large or small ensembles, and reveal the secrets behind Alaska’s flexible, community-driven approach to music ed — from jazz bands to orchestra and everything in between. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Alaska Music Educators Association supports music teachers, and hear about the extraordinary performances that make Alaska’s music scene unexpectedly lively and diverse. If you’re a teacher, a student, or an enthusiast curious about how music education defies the odds in one of America’s most unconventional settings, this episode is a goldmine. It’s perfect for anyone interested in innovative, resilient school programs — or simply fascinated by Alaska’s wild, beautiful, and musical landscape. And whether you’re contemplating a teaching gig in the Last Frontier, or just want to hear how a community keeps music thriving in the last frontier, this episode delivers a fresh perspective you won’t find anywhere else. Tune in and see what makes Alaskan band programs so uniquely inspiring — because even in the wilderness, music finds a way to flourish. #stateofband #bandroomtherapy #bandroom #Alaska #alaskabands

    State of Band: Alaska
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About

Join our panel of directors as we share a laugh and shine a light on our own band rooms.

Information

  • Creator
    Ryan Ashley
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ryan Ashley
  • Show Website
    Band Room Therapy

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