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beyond ArtLess

Chris Gleason, Peter Haberman & Phil Ostrander

“Beyond ArtLess" with Chris Gleason, Peter Haberman & Phil Ostrander is a podcast that explores the friendships and the community that exists in and outside of the arts and arts education. In each episode of Beyond ArtLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What comes next is a fun-filled conversation revealing the joy of friendship and the artlessness of the hosts. Unlike most successful classrooms, this show is not well planned and probably not worth your time.

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S5 · E10
Yesterday · 32 min
Rebecca Arons
Send us Fan Mail Becca Arons has contracted ensembles for countless major musical stars – from the Eagles, the Who, Ed Sheeran, Snoop Dog, Cory Wong and Aerosmith to Andrea Bocelli, Stevie Wonder, Weird Al Yankovich, Bob Newhart, Hugh Jackman, Johnny Mathis, Regis Philbin and Prince. She has contracted orchestras for these broadway shows in just the last few years: the Great Gatsby, Wicked, Suffs, Final Fantasy, Mrs. Doubtfire, the Lion King, MJ, Some Like It Hot, Back to the Future. Becca has performed with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Minnesota Orchestra, and is a long standing member of the Minnesota Opera Orchestra. She teaches at St. Thomas University and has degrees from Oberlin and a doctorate in cello from UMN. She is co-founder, owner of String Genius and founder of RDA Productions. When she is not crazy busy with business, she is finding time to advocate and be an activist for musicians all over the twin cities. Becca shares with us about her recent experience leading the negotiating committee for the Musicians of the Minnesota Opera Orchestra, including the most recent cancellation that has effectively led to the orchestra musicians being locked out. Please join Becca, Phil, Allison Ostrander and many other friends of the podcast on Sunday, November 1 at 7 PM at Ted Mann Concert Hall on the campus of the University of Minnesota Campus. The Minnesota Opera Orchestra will be there, along with members of the MNOP Chorus, soloists and friends. JOIN US!!!! https://www.stringenius.com/ https://linktr.ee/musicians_of_mnoperaorchestra?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=a72b0890-1ba9-4305-bf7c-6e540883e62b https://www.instagram.com/musicians_of_mnoperaorchestra/ REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E9
Saturday · 1 hr 8 min
Tobin Stewart
Send us Fan Mail What does it take to be a great leader? On this episode of Beyond ArtLess, Tobin Stewart, Symphony Orchestra Director and Assistant Professor of Music at Montana State University, joins us to talk about leadership, musicianship, and lifelong learning. Drawing from his book Leading as a Conductor, Tobin shares insights on building ensemble culture, developing student leaders, finding your own leadership style, and knowing when to lead, delegate, or simply get out of the way. We also explore the connections between music and athletics, the value of singing in instrumental ensembles, and how a mountain biking accident changed the way he conducts. Then it’s off to Montana for a speed round featuring cold smoke, skijoring, and a few questionable attempts at humor. Commuters, there’s plenty to learn—and a few reasons to shake your head—along the way! Learn More About Tobin: https://www.montana.edu/music/directory/1524642/tobin-stewart https://www.tobinstewart.com/ https://giamusic.com/artists/tobin-stewart https://www.nmeanebraska.org/2026-all-state-orchestra REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E8
October 17 · 1 hr 4 min
Angela Klinkner
Send us Fan Mail Step right up! Test your knowledge about farming in LaCrosse, Wisconsin! Whoever can answer all the questions will immediately be sent all remaining Beyond Artless Season 1 overstock t-shirts. Shipping not included. Our guest Angela Klinkner is an authority on dairy farming, but is also a superstar sixth year teacher in Holmen, WI. Her years of middle school band teaching in Houston, Texas helped her develop a strong approach to teaching fundamentals to young musicians. She might win the award for most organized teacher ever. Peter, Phil and Chris win the collective award for aimless banter. Holmen High School Band Uniform Fundraiser Holmen High School Band Website Uniform Fundraiser Article SHOW CREDITS Servant of Peace (Dorothy Gates) performed by Teddy Van Winkle - recorded on March 7th, 2022, in the University of North Texas Voertman Concert Hall. Accompanied by Dr. Joshua Vigran, piano. https://youtu.be/tcUfcwZ31Qw?si=Rntj8gVsFe9_4p6A REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E7
October 10 · 1 hr 8 min
Randy Swiggum
Send us Fan Mail What happens when deep commitment to music education, trailblazing pedagogy, and the pursuit of artistry come together in one remarkable career? You get Randy Swiggum, nationally recognized conductor, clinician, author, and leader in Comprehensive Musicianship through Performance (CMP). From Carnegie Hall to the Madison Metropolitan School District, where he currently serves as an Arts Teacher Leader, Randy has spent his career inspiring young musicians and challenging educators to rethink what great teaching can be. This week, we dig into relationships, emotional intelligence, music advocacy, and the neuroscience of music. We also explore 50 years of CMP as well as the upcoming State Music Conference featuring Dr. Anita Collins, Dr. Cecil Adderley, and Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser. Randy brings plenty of wisdom, perspective, and a reminder that three hosts still have a LOT to learn. Learn More About Randy Here https://www.foxvalleyartshalloffame.org/inductees/swiggum https://www.carnegiehall.org/Education/Programs/Music-Educators-Workshop/Summer-Program Wisconsin State Music Conference Register Below! https://wmeamusic.org/conference-main-preview/conference/ Comprehensive Musicianship through Performance (CMP) https://wmeamusic.org/cmp/ Anita Collins Links https://youtu.be/R0JKCYZ8hng?si=_YtkAUPbh8iwXqX4 https://www.ted.com/talks/anita_collins_the_benefits_of_music_education https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EMOhcsoLy0 https://www.anitacollinsmusic.com.au/ Recording Credits https://youtu.be/eYV1sxt-QAs?si=gaNlhzPW3iba1PqK Hey Coach- This Is A Show Note https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/podcast REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E6
October 3 · 1 hr 5 min
David Davis
Send us Fan Mail Commuter, this week we’re talking about music education, change, and the seemingly radical idea that every kid deserves to see themselves in the music classroom. David Davis has gone from traditional music educator to change agent, working to make music education more inclusive, relevant, and equitable for all students. We talk about what needs to change, why literacy matters, and what happens when we stop treating the way we’ve always done things as the way we always have to do things. Peter, Chris and Phil also do their part to prove that systemic change is much easier to discuss than successfully executing a podcast. Learn More about David: https://educationminnesota.org/news/awards-and-honors/teacher-of-the-year/ https://nafme.org/member-profile/david-davis-2/ https://www.fox9.com/news/st-louis-park-music-teacher-named-minnesota-teacher-year Resources Mentioned: A Sound Approach to Teaching Instrumentalists: An Application of Content and Learning Sequences Nurtured by Love: The Classic Approach to Talent Education by Shinichi Suzuki and Waltraud Suzuki | Jun 1, 1993 Teaching Rhythm: New Strategies and Techniques for Success by David Newell (Author) Jump Right In: The Music Curriculum, Reference Handbook for Using Learning Sequence Activities by Edwin E. Gordon REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E5
September 26 · 1 hr 1 min
Lisa Linde
Send us Fan Mail Finally, we have a guest that brings some no nonsense Boston sensibility to our upper Midwest goofball hosts. Lisa Linde is long time music teaching wizard at Newton South High School in Massachusetts. Her ensembles have won numerous awards and jazz ensemble has performed several times at Essentially Ellington. She is also founder of jazzhers - a non profit founded to address the persistent gender disparity in jazz education and performance. Our hosts struggle through meaningless banter, aimless questions and a speed round that seems anything but speedy. Thankfully, there’s only about 30 more episodes this season left. Send any complaints directly to the coach - Tim Gleason. Learn More Here: https://www.jazzhers.com/home https://nafme.org/member-profile/lisa-linde/ https://downbeat.com/news/detail/lisa-linde-downbeat-honor-for-achievement-in-jazz-education https://www.midwestclinic.org/jazzprecon.html REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E4
September 19 · 1 hr 4 min
John Greene
Send us Fan Mail The Band Whisperer: John Greene What do you get when you combine 37 years of teaching, thousands of rehearsals, a lifetime of listening, and a healthy appreciation for classic rock? You get John Greene—and one heck of a conversation. This week on Beyond Artless, we sit down with retired music educator, clinician, adjudicator, arranger, guitarist, and all-around rehearsal junkie John Greene. John shares stories from a career that spans Wisconsin and Minnesota, from his unexpected transition from PE major to music education student (including a memorable two-and-a-half-hour Schoenberg violin recital) to his years working with middle school musicians, jazz ensembles, marching programs, and teachers across the country. We talk about why high expectations and middle school musicians absolutely can coexist, the power of relationships and trust, why “be more expressive” might be one of the least helpful comments we can give a young musician, and how something as simple as a pencil and a “drill box” can transform a rehearsal. John also shares what he has learned from a lifetime of mentors, why music teachers need to spend more time choosing music their students can actually be successful with, how to build meaningful relationships with administrators, and why music educators across disciplines need to stop looking at each other as competition and start recognizing that we all need each other. And because this is Beyond Artless, we eventually abandon all of that wisdom for a rapid-fire trip through 1970s rock: Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Terry Kath, Frampton Comes Alive, Fleetwood Mac, Shostakovich, Ives, and the proper use of a popsicle stick in an eight-track player. It's a conversation full of great stories, practical rehearsal wisdom, and the kind of perspective that makes you want to get back into the band room and try something new on Monday. Plus: Chris has rocks. You'll have to listen to understand. Credits: Arnold Schoenberg Pierrot Lunaire 1. Moondrunk Curtis Institute of Music https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8OMOhmfP9I REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission Support the show
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S5 · E3
September 12 · 1 hr 1 min
Andrea Pelloquin
Send us Fan Mail This week on Beyond Artless, we accidentally made an episode that is actually useful. We’re talking copyright, music publishing, digital music, arrangements, AI, and a bunch of other things that music educators probably should know more about—but often don’t have time to figure out. Our guest is Andrea Pelloquin, Executive Director of the Choristers Guild and an attorney specializing in copyright and trademark law. She brings a ton of experience from both the music industry and the legal world, and she helps us make sense of some of the copyright questions that come up in music education every day. We also talk about public domain music, photocopying, e-print, AI, career changes, and why you might want to think twice before assuming that something you found online is fair game. And because this is Beyond Artless, we somehow manage to work in bees, spelling bees, porch geese, and a few other things that have absolutely nothing to do with copyright. Come for the useful information. Stay for the nonsense. Helpful Links Regarding Copyright https://www.tresonamusic.com/ https://www.bmi.com/ https://www.arrangeme.com/ https://www.easysong.com/ https://schoolmusiclicense.com/ https://www.choristersguild.org/index.html https://nafme.org/resource/united-states-copyright-law-a-guide-for-music-educators/ https://www.mpa.org/ OPPORTUNITIES: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS (Closes Sept 15) https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC (Ends Sept 15) MAX JOY - ERIKA SVANOE https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/ Support the show
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S5 · E2
September 5 · 1 hr 1 min
Tony Thomann
Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder what a true visionary in arts administration leads like? Enter our guest Tony Thomann - executive director of the Minnesota Youth Symphonies. Truly dedicated to the cause of young orchestral musicians in every way, Tony is the ultimate team builder and steady hand on a tiller. Ever wonder what meaningless banter, fruitless band boozlers and wandering questions sound like? Enter Phil, Peter and Chris. Mustering every ounce of experience gained over the last four seasons, our hosts derail and blame each other at every turn. Commuter, we appreciate your support and occasional critique, even if we can’t really seem to respond adequately. It’s mostly Peter’s fault. Learn More About Tony and the Minnesota Youth Symphonies Here: https://www.mnyouthsymphonies.org/ REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS (closes Sept 15) https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC (ends Sept 15) MAX JOY - ERIKA SVANOE https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/ Support the show
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S5 · E1
August 29 · 1 hr 11 min
Jennifer Hawkinson
Send us Fan Mail What do you get when you put Chris, Phil, Peter, and Dr. Jennifer Hawkinson in the same room? A conversation full of laughter, honest stories, teaching wisdom, and at least a few moments where you'll find yourself thinking, "Yep... that's exactly what it's like to be a music teacher." In this episode of Beyond Artless, we're joined by Dr. Jennifer Hawkinson, Associate Professor of Music Education and Director of the Symphonic Band at Concordia College. Jennifer has spent her career shaping musicians and mentoring future educators, but what makes this conversation so special isn't just her résumé—it's her ability to blend excellence with humility, high expectations with genuine kindness, and just enough humor to remind us that no rehearsal is ever completely under control. From her years teaching in South Dakota public schools to preparing tomorrow's band directors at Concordia, Jennifer shares stories that are equal parts inspiring and wonderfully relatable. She reminds us that the best teachers don't have all the answers—they simply keep showing up, keep learning, and occasionally laugh at the chaos along the way. What you'll hear in this episode: How Jennifer's journey led her from the school band room to the college classroom The mentors who shaped her—and why every great teacher stands on someone else's shoulders What future music educators really need to know before their first day on the podium Building rehearsal environments where students feel challenged, valued, and empowered Why relationships will always outlast repertoire The little moments that remind us why we chose this profession in the first place Of course, it wouldn't be Beyond Artless without a healthy dose of laughter. Chris, Phil, and Peter swap stories with Jennifer about the wonderfully unpredictable life of music educators—those rehearsals that somehow survive flattened trumpets, questionable rhythms, and the occasional "creative interpretation" of the conductor's instructions. Whether you're a veteran teacher, a future music educator, or someone who simply appreciates the people who make school music programs come alive, this episode feels like sitting around the table with friends who just happen to care deeply about making music—and making people better through it. Jennifer's passion is contagious, her perspective is refreshing, and her heart for students shines through every story she tells. Join us for a conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, a few laughs, and a reminder that while music may not solve every problem, it certainly makes the journey a whole lot better. That's what happens Beyond Artless. SHOW CREDITS: WALTON Coronation March, “Crown Imperial” - "The President's Own" United States Marine Band Performed on April 2, 2023, at Northern Virginia Community College's Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center in Alexandria, Va., as part of a concert titled "Sacred Hymns, Songs, and Sounds." William Walton's Coronation March, “Crown Imperial” transcribed by William Duthoit Conducted by First Lieutenant Darren Lin Program and notes: https://www.marineband.marines.mil/Po... REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC until September 15 MAX JOY - ERIKA SVANOE https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/ THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Grand Tours Concordia College Heid Music Interested in sponsoring with us? Learn more here! Support the show
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August 22 · 3 min
Season 5 Teaser
Send us Fan Mail Welcome Back, Commuters! Welcome back to Season 5 of Beyond ArtLess! After four seasons, more than 35,000 downloads, and an impressive lack of professional growth on the part of your hosts, we're thrilled to have you along for another ride. This season, The Empire Strikes a Budget, we're once again talking with fascinating people about music, education, creativity, and whatever else manages to derail the conversation. Expect surprise guests, questionable questions, Band Buzzlers, Band Boozlers, and the occasional moment of actual insight. Thanks for listening, laughing, and continuing to commute with us. We’re glad you’re back. Same podcast. Same idiots. New season. REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few Jazz spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: MAX JOY - ERIKA SVANOE https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/ Support the show
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S4 · E39
May 27 · 1 hr 11 min
Gene Pokorny
Send us Fan Mail In the Season 4 finale of Beyond ArtLess, we are joined by legendary Chicago Symphony Orchestra tubist Gene Pokorny for a conversation that moves seamlessly from orchestral artistry to teamwork, teaching, and steam locomotives. With Peter away caring for family, special guest co-host Paul Kile joins Chris and Phil for a finale episode that is somehow thoughtful, hilarious, and significantly more organized than usual. In This Episode: Gene reflects on life inside the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and why he still “pinches himself” walking onto the stage Stories about working with conductors including Riccardo Muti and Klaus Mäkelä The arrival of new principal trombonist Tim Higgins and how personnel changes reshape an orchestra Gene’s philosophy on expressive playing, rubato, and storytelling in music Why so many young brass players focus on technique before expression Lessons learned from legendary teachers including Roger Bobo, Tommy Johnson, and Arnold Jacobs The origins of the Pokorny Seminar and the importance of teamwork in music education Steam locomotives, railroad leadership, and what musicians can learn from the Union Pacific “Big Boy” Why Mahler ultimately beats Shostakovich… at least today Favorite Moments: “You’ve got 52 weeks. I’ve got four measures.” “There’s nothing extraordinarily special about what we’re doing. We just happen to be lucky enough to put together something greater than the sum of the parts.” “We still have to worry about long tones. Jesus.” Also in This Episode: Chris shares his recent trip to hear the Chicago Symphony Orchestra perform Saint-Saëns’ “Organ Symphony” Festival prep chaos: 4,188 students, endless pizza, and waterpark logistics Jury duty panic during concert season The return of the classic “make fun of Peter” segment Details about the new (currently FREE) composition by Erika Svanoe called "Max Joy" and the story behind the premiere and dedication. Thank you, commuters, for riding along with us through another season of Beyond ArtLess. See you in Season 5. Learn More: Chicago Symphony Orchestra Pokorny Low Brass Seminar Credits: Skirmish and Dance · Jeffrey Reynolds Big Boy Album ℗ 2005 Summit Records Released on: 2001-02-01. https://youtu.be/1uSzYq-08Iw?si=XvAfQfuoWTkfCHiF Carl Sagan's Pale Blue Dot OFFICIAL. As seen in 2014's COSMOS: A SpaceTime Odyssey Written by Ann Druyan and Steven Soter Cosmos Studios, Inc., Copyright © 2013 Passage written by Carl Sagan for the book Pale Blue Dot published by Random House, Copyright ©1994 Democritus Properties, LLChttps://youtu.be/GO5FwsblpT8?si=iMpXuImhgPO9BPD1 Mahler: Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection": V. Finale. Im Tempo des Scherzos Mahler: Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection": V. Finale. Im Tempo des Scherzos · Carol Neblett · Marilyn Horne · Claudio Abbado · Chicago Symphony Orchestra · Chicago Symphony Chorus Claudio Abbado & Chicago Symphony Orchestra ℗ 1977 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin Released on: 2017-04-21 https://youtu.be/rJWxpR8liF0?si=FMqBfKdVTXYfKDTz Gershwin: An American in Paris (Revised F. Campbell-Watson) · James Levine · Chicago Symphony Orchestra The World's Greatest Orchestras - Chicago Symphony Orchestra ℗ 1993 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin Released on: 2021-01-09 https://youtu.be/nIw2WJEfZxo?si=qkuxYAcqJq_IzvYy Saint-Saëns - Symphony No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 78 "Organ" (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) Camille Saint-Saëns - Symphony No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 78 "Organ"Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider, Conductor Cameron Carpenter, Organ Live at Orchestra Hall, December 2022 https://youtu.be/5xrHCJbyG2M?si=CL03JHIsb0KhXRqQ Partita in A minor for Flute Alone BMV 1013 Provided to YouTube by The Orchard Enterprises Partita in A minor for Flute Alone BMV 1013 · Gene Pokorny Tuba Tracks ℗ 2005 Summit Records Released on: 1995-04-01 https://youtu.be/kQcdD33NXfw?si=cLjI8jGxwXeYxrz7 REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2028 W/ OMAR THOMAS https://forms.gle/ZswvHWEZK3HBozXZ7 FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 Max Joy - Erika Svanoe https://www.erikasvanoe.com/btn.html Support the show
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S4 · E38
May 17 · 1 hr 26 min
Tony Marinello III
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we journey through the eclectic world of conducting, education, and cultural authenticity — with a side of humor and some self-deprecating confessions. Our guest, Dr. Anthony Marinello III, is an exemplary musician and educator (and self-professed Commuter) who shares insights on everything from embracing the non-linear career path to the importance of humility, authenticity, and even a mid-career crisis or two. Get your pencils out as Tony shares a treasure trove of great ideas, quotes, books, podcasts, composers and authors to check out. Peter, Chris, and Phil are still trying to spell their own names. Key Takeaways: Embracing the chaos: Careers don’t follow a straight line—thank goodness! Our guest’s journey from dentistry to music illustrates how the "multiverse" of possibilities keeps life interesting. The power of humility and curiosity: Approach students and colleagues with respect and a willingness to learn. Be flexible enough to change your mind and your sound. Authenticity over stereotype: True artistry comes from bringing genuine heart and cultural humility, not just imitating or appropriating. The importance of mentorship and identity: From LSU to Virginia Tech, mentors shape us immensely, emphasizing that relationships and feedback are the real game-changers. The value of risk-taking: Sometimes, the best moments happen when you decide to "go for it" despite fears and uncertainties—like risking a rehearsal or an emotional risk on stage. Cultivating community: Whether rehearsing socially or on stage, building trust and respect within groups makes the magic happen—and even a broken window can be a teaching moment. The influence of podcasts and psychology: Exploring the human element—feelings, shared stories, and vulnerability—can elevate ensemble performance and leadership. The importance of "telling your truth": Show up, do the work, be authentic, and stay flexible in your creative and professional pursuits. Resources: Learn more about Tony here Illinois State University Work of Adam Grant – Rethink, grow, and challenge your assumptions Mark Brackett’s Emotional Intelligence – Cultivating emotional literacy in leadership Ira Glass’s Creative Process – The patience, craft, and time needed to develop mastery REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few spots remain https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 CONSIDER BECOMING A SUBSCRIBER: Support the show
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S4 · E37
May 9 · 1 hr 2 min
David Scalise
Send us Fan Mail There is no greater a stumble than an Ostrander introduction of a guest. No helping hands from Gleason or Haberman, either. Our guest is stranded on an island of poorly phrased questions, out of touch follow-ups and frequent misdirects. Our guest David Scalise follows a trend of well-informed, star powered teachers. He handles our poor hosting with ease and a great laugh. He is part of the fabulous Apple Valley music program in Minnesota. David leads the award winning Apple Valley R&B band, and many other groups at the high school. He has had a wide ranging successful teaching career and is the model for meeting students where they are. Learn more about David & the Apple Valley Program here: https://www.youtube.com/@davidscalise8985 https://www.avrb.band/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17AopbAxLR8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pG9xAxaMae8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MMd3iM-_h8 There are a million of these videos - all great. REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - A few Jazz spots remain!! https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 HELP SUPPORT THIS BELOW AVERAGE PODCAST HERE: Support the show
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S4 · E36
May 2 · 59 min
Alicia Neal
Send us Fan Mail Get ready for an insightful and humor-packed conversation with Dr. Alicia Neal—a leader whose passion for music education, community building, and authentic connection shines through every story. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just a band nerd at heart, this episode offers valuable lessons on fundamentals, inclusion, and the joy of teaching music. Resources: Alicia Neal - Biography The Hill We Climb: LGBTQ+ Band and Belonging by Rob Taylor & Eric Lung Alan McMurray's profile Howard Hughes - Biography University of Colorado Boulder Eastern Illinois University Bands Credits: Omar Thomas Of Our New Day Begun - "The President's Own" United States Marine Band Performed on February, 26, 2023, at Northern Virginia Community College's Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center in Alexandria, Va. https://www.youtube.com/watchv=uumlUtrAimk&list=RDuumlUtrAimk&start_radio=1 "The Lonely Goatherd" scene from Rodgers & Hammerstein's The Sound of Music (1965). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmmOJx_Hxto Wycliffe Gordon Trombone Solos Jazz in Marciac 2009 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBTPkNd3D8w REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS - FOUR JAZZ SPOTS REMAINING https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 Support the show
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S4 · E35
April 26 · 1 hr 17 min
Nobuyoshi Yasuda
Send us Fan Mail It’s only fitting that our longest episode is dedicated to our beloved friend, mentor, and colleague, Nobuyoshi Yasuda. We spend time exploring his childhood in Japan, his journey to UW–Eau Claire, Peter’s unrelenting bowing, the infamous crashing trombone dinner story, Moomers, and, of course, his upcoming retirement and return to Japan. Join us as we say goodbye to a dear friend—and if you don’t yet know Nobu, you’re in for a treat. Learn more about Nobu here: https://www.uwec.edu/profiles/yasudan Get ticket's to Nobu's final concert with the Chippewa Valley Symphony here: https://www.pablocenter.org/events/detail/cvso-maestros-finale-conductor-nobuyoshi-yasudas-farewell-concert-964236 REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 Support the show
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S4 · E34
April 19 · 1 hr
Malcolm Burke
Send us Fan Mail What does it take to cultivate musical excellence, build real connections with students, and navigate the unpredictability of teaching? Malcolm Burke brings a compelling mix of artistry, humility, and humor. From middle school cello to collegiate conducting, Malcolm’s journey highlights patience, adaptability, and the power of listening. He shares practical insights on motivating students without falling into toxic competition, balancing structure with creativity, and creating meaningful musical experiences at every level. Along the way, we explore how small, human moments shape lasting impact, the influence of mentors and how to carry their lessons forward, and what it looks like to conduct with clarity, emotion, and flexibility while connecting with students from beginners to advanced performers. This conversation goes beyond music, offering a grounded look at teaching, growth, and embracing the inevitable chaos along the way. Thoughtful, honest, and often funny, it’s a reminder that some of the best lessons come from the messiest moments. Support the show
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S4 · E33
April 11 · 1 hr 9 min
Sam Quinones
Send us Fan Mail After 149 episodes of spirited banter, we finally did the unthinkable—we made an episode without it. Don’t get used to it, though. Odds are the pendulum swings back soon and we overcorrect with an episode that’s all banter… and a mildly concerned guest. Fortunately, that’s not the case this week. Sam Quinones is a Los Angeles-based journalist and acclaimed author known for his narrative non-fiction work on drug trafficking and immigration. A former L.A. Times reporter, he gained prominence for his in-depth reporting on the U.S. opioid epidemic, most notably in Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic and The Least of Us. Today, he joins us to talk about his newest book, Perfect Tuba—a narrative nonfiction exploration of band culture, where discipline, collaboration, and long-term commitment offer a powerful counterpoint to a world chasing instant gratification. Through stories of dedicated musicians, iconic instruments, and tight-knit communities, the book reframes the tuba as more than an instrument—it’s a metaphor for purpose, perseverance, and the kind of fulfillment that comes from doing hard things well, together. GET THE BOOK HERE: THE PERFECT TUBA: Forging Fulfillment from the Bass Horn, Band, and Hard Work LEARN MORE ABOUT SAM AND SUBSCRIBE TO HIS NEWSLETTER HERE: http://www.samquinones.com samquinones.substack.com REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 Support the show
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S4 · E32
April 4 · 1 hr 5 min
Michael Kamphuis
Send us Fan Mail This episode features Mike Kamphuis, whose remarkable path to leadership in Conn-Selmer is anything but conventional. From working sprint-car pit crews and running a DJ business to announcing early ultimate fighting events and competing at a high level in bowling, Mike shares how an unusual series of opportunities shaped the mindset that now drives his work in music education. What makes the conversation compelling is how those seemingly unrelated experiences connect through one consistent theme: a willingness to say yes, figure things out, and build solutions where none yet exist. That same mindset later fueled his work developing new systems inside Conn-Selmer—from modernizing parts access and product support to helping create educational tools and services that directly support teachers and school music programs across the country. The episode also explores how Mike’s original goal of becoming a band director evolved into a broader mission of serving music educators at scale. Through stories about mentorship, industry change, advocacy, and the future of school music, the conversation becomes a larger reflection on leadership, adaptability, and why innovation in education often begins with listening first and acting second. Learn More About Michael Here: https://artists.ludwig-drums.com/en-us/education/clinician/profile/michael-kamphuis https://connselmer.com/news/changes-to-leadership Watch Tim Gleason Dance Here: https://youtu.be/PH8dv-yDT1U?si=eBA4YlLvKKrC2Und Credits: Why There Is No Trumpet Christmas - YouTube Video https://youtu.be/kfodl1g_ibY?si=mJiXNP6ZF9TbqETu REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23): https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22): https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education COMMISSION POSSIBLE 2027 W/ ADRIAN SIMS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education/commission FREE MUSIC: Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”) https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-0 Support the show
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S4 · E31
March 28 · 1 hr 3 min
Mary Claxton
Send us Fan Mail Everything about Chris, Phil and Peter screams antiquated (anti-modern). The jokes, the tech struggles, the slow motion wheezing when attempting to sit or stand. However, our guest is the living definition of the modern music educator and performer. Mary Claxton is the director of Teaching and Learning at Music Will - the largest non-profit music program in the United States. Hundreds educators are using their forward thinking curriculum that champions Modern Band. Mary shares with us about gigging on Motown music at night and truly creative classroom experiences by day. And more information than you ever thought possible about the ukulele. Learn More Here: https://musicwill.org/the-team/mary-claxton/ https://www.theburroughssoul.com/ https://www.instagram.com/claxtogram/?hl=en https://nafme.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Mary-Claxton-Headshot-Bio-1.pdf https://hub.yamaha.com/music-educators/40-under-40/2026/claxton-mary/ https://www.instagram.com/trashcattunes/?hl=en REGISTER NOW: 2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1 BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23): https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22): https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education Support the show
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