The Unconducted Curriculum

Chris McLellan & Tina Parr

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.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. Sep 24

    Episode 8: 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Sep 3

    Episode 5: September - Survive or Thrive?

    September marks the transition from excitement to reality for band directors at the middle school and high school levels. It's a time of increased demands, challenges, and the need for strategic interventions to support students. The focus shifts from getting started to maintaining motivation and addressing academic concerns. The conversation covers the challenges and pressures faced by band directors and students during the marching band season, as well as the strategies for managing workload, maintaining student well-being, and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging within the band program. September reveals the culture of the band program, and it's a critical time to evaluate and reset the culture for success. The focus is on establishing a positive culture, balancing correction and celebration, and fostering emotional connection and engagement. Practical strategies and reflection exercises are provided to guide directors in evaluating and improving their band program's culture. Takeaways Transition from excitement to realityStrategic interventions for academic concerns band directors and students face significant challenges and pressures during the marching band season.Strategies for managing workload, maintaining student well-being, and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging within the band program are crucial. September reveals the true culture of the band programBalancing correction and celebration is essential for a positive cultureEmotional connection and engagement are key to a successful band program Chapters 00:00 Supporting Students and Academic Concerns24:30 Challenges and Pressures of the Marching Band Season29:48 Strategies for Managing Workload and Maintaining Student Well-being37:46 Fostering Ownership and Belonging in the Band Program01:13:01 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

  7. Aug 27

    Episode 4: Band Culture by Design

    The conversation delves into the definition of band culture and its influence on character. It explores how culture shapes character and the importance of consistency in building a positive culture. The impact of rehearsal environment on culture, leading by example, and the significance of practicing what you preach are also discussed. The conversation delves into the importance of building a resilient band culture through consistent small decisions, the role of student leaders in shaping the culture, and the significance of creating a safe space for students. It also provides reflection questions for band directors to assess and improve their band culture. Takeaways Culture shapes characterConsistency is key to building a positive cultureBuilding a resilient band culture requires consistent small decisionsStudent leaders play a significant role in shaping the band cultureCreating a safe space for students fosters a positive band culture Chapters 00:00 Defining Band Culture01:16 The Influence of Culture on Character02:44 Shaping Character Through Band Culture04:27 Rehearsal Environment and Culture09:41 Leading by Example and Consistency20:46 Practicing What You Preach28:54 Building a Resilient Band Culture35:38 Training Student Leaders54:44 Reflection Questions for Band Culture

  8. Aug 20

    Episode 3: Rehearsal Structure for the Win!

    The conversation covers the importance of structured warm-ups and the significance of rehearsal planning for productive rehearsals. It emphasizes the need for a well-organized warm-up routine and the impact of rehearsal structure on the overall productivity of rehearsals. The conversation covers the importance of engaging students actively, using peer evaluation, recording and evaluating rehearsals, planning with clear objectives, and ending rehearsals with purpose. It also discusses effective rehearsal techniques, avoiding common rehearsal mistakes, and closing rehearsals with purpose. Takeaways Structured warm-ups are essentialRehearsal planning is crucial for productive rehearsals Engage students activelyUse peer evaluationRecord and evaluate rehearsalsPlan with clear objectivesEnd rehearsals with purpose Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Structured Warm-Ups03:01 Rehearsal Planning for Productive Rehearsals28:32 Engaging Students Actively29:59 Effective Rehearsal Techniques31:27 Avoiding Common Rehearsal Mistakes47:17 Closing Rehearsals with Purpose

  9. Aug 13

    Episode 2: The First Day/Week Part 2

    The conversation covers the topics of positive reinforcement in the classroom and the role of mentors in teaching. It explores the use of positive reinforcement to manage the classroom and encourage student engagement. Additionally, it delves into the importance of mentorship and guidance for new and experienced teachers, highlighting the value of having a mentor to provide support and feedback. The conversation covers the topics of mentorship and clinics, as well as time management and reflection. It delves into the importance of mentorship in music education, the role of clinics in program development, and the significance of time management and reflection for personal and professional growth. Takeaways Positive reinforcementMentorship and guidance Mentorship and ClinicsTime Management and Reflection Chapters 00:00 Positive Reinforcement in the Classroom16:57 The Role of Mentors in Teaching27:17 Mentorship and Clinics33:31 Time Management and Reflection

  10. Aug 4

    Episode 1: The First Day of School

    Ever felt like your first year as a band director was more like a trial by fire? Join Chris McLellan and Tina Parr as they share the raw and eye-opening experiences of their inaugural year, revealing the unexpected challenges and triumphs that shaped their journey. If you’re a new band director or thinking about stepping into the role, this episode is your essential guide to thriving in the classroom. Chris and Tina dive into the unique hurdles of starting at a small school, where the band program was struggling, and the expectations were high. They discuss the steep learning curve they faced, from learning how to build relationships to managing a mixed high school band with eighth graders from a local Lutheran school. You’ll discover how a lack of mentorship back in the early '90s forced Chris to learn on the job, and how today’s technology allows new educators to connect with mentors around the world. You’ll learn: - How to create a welcoming classroom culture on day one that encourages student engagement and excitement. - The importance of building relationships with students and why it matters just as much as teaching music. - Practical strategies for managing a diverse band program and ensuring every student feels valued. - Why first-year teachers should embrace mentorship and seek guidance from seasoned directors. - The secrets to maintaining a positive classroom environment where students thrive. This episode is a must-listen for anyone entering the world of band directing. The knowledge shared by Chris and Tina is not only practical but also deeply relatable to new educators who may feel overwhelmed. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from those who have been in the trenches and came out stronger.

  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

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
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • Show Website
    The Unconducted Curriculum

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