Band Director Boot Camp
Lesley Moffat
Welcome to the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, where we help busy band directors amplify their impact—not their workload.This is your space to find practical strategies, fresh inspiration, and a community that understands the unique demands of your role.As a band director, you’re constantly balancing rehearsals, performances, administrative tasks, and student needs. It’s easy to feel like more effort is the only solution. But what if you could elevate your program and protect your time and energy?That’s exactly what this podcast is here to help you do. Over the past four seasons, we’ve connected with directors from all walks of life who have discovered smarter, more sustainable ways to run their programs. Each episode is packed with actionable tips and real-world strategies to help you work more efficiently, prioritize what matters, and create a thriving band culture—without running yourself into the ground.Through every conversation, we break down the barriers that make this profession overwhelming and build a community where we support each other’s growth. We celebrate the wins, learn from the tough moments, and stay focused on one mission: making it possible for you to lead with impact and maintain your own well-being.Because the work you do matters—and so do you.Join us and discover how to get more done with less stress, reignite your passion, and make every day on the podium more rewarding.Tune in to the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast—where we amplify your impact, not your workload.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 4, 2024 • 18min
"Harnessing Tech for Band Class Efficiency"
Join host Lesley Moffat in this informative episode of Band Director Boot Camp, where she welcomes James Hargreaves, the Associate Band Director at Smithson Valley Middle School. With nearly two decades of experience, James shares transformative tips on using technology to streamline classroom management and administrative tasks. Dive into the world of spreadsheets, Google Forms, and other digital tools that can significantly reduce your workload and enhance productivity.Key Discussions:James's journey from a paper-based system to mastering digital tools for efficient classroom management.Tips for using Google Sheets to manage student information, event planning, and health forms efficiently.How to use formulas in spreadsheets to automate repetitive tasks and save time.James's innovative approach to gamifying the band classroom, enhancing student motivation through competitive team activities.Listeners will learn:Practical ways to integrate technology into daily teaching practices to improve organization.How digital tools can transform mundane administrative tasks into quick, manageable processes.Ideas for using gamification in music education to increase student engagement and team spirit.Website: http://www.AMBandDirector.comTPT Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/james-hargreavesYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdQxROpiYFc6v-oHkM0Bprg
Aug 28, 2024 • 20min
"Streamlining Success: Classroom Organization for Band Directors"
In this enlightening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Monica Camp, a middle school orchestra teacher with a master's in conducting and a recent winner of the regional Music Educator of the Year award. Monica shares invaluable insights on organizing the classroom for the new school year, including innovative strategies for classroom décor that doubles as functional aids and creative approaches to managing classroom space. She discusses how preparing the classroom environment can significantly enhance teaching effectiveness and student learning.You can also check out Monica’s fantastic resources:🎼 Instagram: Monica's Instagram 📋 First 8 Days Lesson Plans and Documents: Monica’s Lesson Plans 🖍️ Music Classroom Decor: Monica’s Decor 📒 Music Teacher Checklists/Music Educator Teacher Planner: Monica’s Planner
6 snips
May 15, 2024 • 21min
"Harmonizing Technology and Music Education with Jean McKen"
Band Director Boot Camp invites Jean McKen, a music director, to discuss her Breezin Thru Theory application transforming music education. They explore using technology for diverse student groups, the benefits of the program including sectionals and drills, and innovative fingering games. The podcast emphasizes engagement, culture, and the profound impact educators have on students' lives through music.
May 8, 2024 • 19min
"Streamlining Band Management with Cut Time"
In this insightful episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat is joined by Rick Ghinelli, who shares revolutionary tools to streamline the management of band programs. With his extensive background in music education and his role at Cut Time, Rick introduces the new generation of Cut Time software designed to enhance efficiency in handling musical inventories, student attendance, and finances. He discusses how these innovative solutions can save music educators countless hours and help them focus more on teaching rather than administrative tasks. Discover how integrating technology like Cut Time can transform your music program management and bring your administrative tasks into the modern era.
Apr 10, 2024 • 19min
"Harmonizing Life: The Power of Mindfulness in Music Education"
In today's episode of Band Director Boot Camp, join your host, Lesley Moffat, as she explores the profound impact of mindfulness on personal well-being and teaching practices with Elizabeth Weismehl. With 30 years of experience in teaching music across all age groups, Elizabeth shares her transformative journey towards a more vibrant and purposeful life through mindfulness practices. Discover how integrating simple yet powerful routines like gratitude reflections, mindful breathing, and setting daily intentions can lead to increased productivity and a positive classroom atmosphere. Elizabeth's story is a testament to the power of self-care in enriching both personal life and professional impact.Go and Shine! Part 1: Nine Strategies for Cultivating a Positive MindsetGo and Shine! Part 2: Eight Strategies for Cultivating a Positive Rehearsal Space
Apr 3, 2024 • 19min
"Crafting Success: Empowering Student Teachers"
In this insightful episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat sits down with David Duarte, an experienced band director and arts administrator with over three decades in education. David shares an innovative approach to student teaching that prioritizes reflection and growth, drawn from his own rich experience and his recent work in Washougal High School and as host of Yamaha's Music for All podcast, Culture Before Content. Discover how David's student teaching framework can transform the mentorship experience, ensuring student teachers not only learn but thrive as they step into their own classrooms. This conversation is a must-listen for any music educator looking to enhance their mentorship skills and foster the next generation of teachers.Website: Davidduarte.orgResources: davidduarte.org/music-ed-resourcesPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5IYWQX4Kg5EOrZhZxe2y5r?si=Mrk8OPwXQNCOuUeRe1HMIw
Mar 27, 2024 • 24min
"The Resilient Director: Navigating Longevity in Music Education"
In this heartening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Bill Stevens, a seasoned band director with a 22-year tenure. Bill shares his journey from his unexpected start in a high school band to battling a life-altering condition that threatened to derail his passion and career. Despite these challenges, Bill provides insightful strategies that have helped him maintain a fruitful career and balance. He delves into how he navigated the tough times, managed his condition, and what he has learned about longevity in music education. Listeners will leave with actionable advice on dealing with personal challenges while remaining committed to their passion for teaching music.Music Educator Live! - https://bandbuzz.org/music-educator-live/ The Music Educator Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/TheMusicEducator/Music Educator Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOslvKAR7CetOY5MvIvSBAThe Music Educator TPT Store - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Music-Educator
Mar 20, 2024 • 19min
"Circus Skills and Symphony Thrills: A Conductor's Journey to Wellness"
Join host Lesley Moffat in this uplifting episode of Band Director Boot Camp, where we explore the harmony between passion for music and the art of well-being. Our guest, Samantha Post, shares her unique story of combining her love for band directing with circus performance skills, and how these talents aid her in managing a chronic illness. Tune in for strategies on staying organized, using accessibility tech, and maintaining physical wellness—all set to the tune of an inspiring life symphony.
Mar 13, 2024 • 23min
"Unlocking Rhythm: The Tik-A Tee Method Unveiled"
Join us as Lesley Moffat chats with Ron Castonguay about his fresh approach to sight reading with his "Tik-A Tee Method." With over 31 years of experience, Ron dives into the challenges of teaching rhythm across various ensembles and how his method streamlines learning for students and teachers alike. Discover how simplifying rhythm can not only make your teaching more effective but also inject fun into learning music. If you've ever wrestled with the intricacies of sight reading in your classroom, this episode offers insights that could transform your teaching strategy.More information on the book release and pre-orders can be found at:https://www.roncastonguay.com/author-clinician
30 snips
Mar 6, 2024 • 22min
"Harmony in Leadership: Orchestrating Inclusivity"
Orchestra teacher Nathan Rødahl discusses fostering student leadership and inclusivity in music education. He emphasizes the balance between high performance standards and a collaborative classroom culture, encouraging student-led practices and prioritizing collective growth over competition.
