The Unconducted Curriculum

Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • 5.0 (3)
  • 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.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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.

  • 3 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 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
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chris McLellan & Tina Parr
  • Show Website
    The Unconducted Curriculum