In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat sits down with middle school band director and tech enthusiast Keith Ozsvath to explore the transformative power of ChatGPT for busy music educators. Keith shares how he uses ChatGPT to streamline his professional life, from creating rubrics and program notes to designing innovative classroom tools. They discuss real-world applications of AI to save time, reduce stress, and enhance teaching, all while maintaining high standards of instruction. Lesley and Keith dive into practical tips, share success stories, and outline how AI can be like having a "band mom in your pocket."

Whether you're curious about how ChatGPT can assist with parent communication, help plan meals after a long day, or even generate creative student activities, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help band directors focus more on what they love—teaching music.

What You’ll Learn:

• How ChatGPT can save time by assisting with emails, rubrics, and lesson planning.
• Ways to personalize ChatGPT for your specific teaching needs.
• Innovative uses of ChatGPT, like creating practice logs, program notes, and more.
• How ChatGPT’s collaborative approach can spark creativity and reduce mental load.
• Practical prompts and tips to get started with ChatGPT today.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

• Keith Ozsvath’s website with resources for music educators
• Lesley’s free video tutorial: ChatGPT for Busy Band Directors on Chat GPT For Busy Band Directors: Introduction.
• The Band Director Buddy GPT – a specialized assistant pre-loaded with band-specific resources.

In this powerful episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat is joined by Joey Weisler, educator, trauma-based scholar, and host of Classroom Narratives, Healing in Education. Joey brings his unique perspective on managing trauma and burnout, drawn from his own experiences with the tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and his journey through personal and professional healing.

Lesley and Joey delve into the importance of creating safe spaces for students and educators to process trauma. They explore how music, narrative, and mindfulness can be powerful tools for recovery and resilience, sharing practical techniques like Joey's “5 Finger Meditation” and Lesley’s daily 528 Hertz breathing practice in the band room. Joey discusses his podcast’s mission to build a supportive community where educators can share stories, find healing, and prevent burnout.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the impact that trauma-informed practices can have in the classroom—and how vital it is for educators to support each other in these challenging times.

Key Topics Covered:

• Lesley’s personal story of a traumatic classroom incident
• Joey’s experience with trauma from Parkland and burnout as a new teacher
• The healing power of music, narrative, and mindful practices in education
• Techniques like “5 Finger Meditation” and using music frequencies for calming classrooms
• The mission of Classroom Narratives, Healing in Education podcast

Joey Weisler is an educator and podcast host known for his work focusing on trauma-informed education. As the creator and host of the podcast Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Weisler explores how teachers can support their own and their students' mental well-being through stories, empathy, and resilience. His approach is informed by his experiences dealing with educational challenges, teacher burnout, and the importance of using vulnerability and narrative to foster a supportive classroom environment. Weisler is also involved in initiatives addressing school trauma and has previously contributed writing related to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School community, where he has been a part of its support and remembrance efforts following the 2018 tragedy.

Links: https://rss.com/podcasts/teachertestimony/

IG: @classroomnarrativespodcast, @throneintheclassroom

In this insightful episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat welcomes Lynn Brinckmeyer—a music educator, advocate, and life coach with an impressive career spanning state and national leadership. Lynn shares her journey from being a clarinet player to becoming a national advocate for music education, along with valuable strategies from her books like Wander the World with Warm-Ups and Advocate for Music.

This conversation covers how advocacy starts in the classroom and the power of making students, parents, and administrators your biggest supporters. Lesley and Lynn also explore practical ways to increase student recruitment and retention while sharing a few fun anecdotes (yes, snacks are a recruitment tool!). Lynn’s passion for music education and mentoring continues as she discusses her transition into life coaching and leadership development.

Key Topics Covered:

• Lynn’s music advocacy journey, including testifying on Capitol Hill
• Practical strategies to engage students, parents, and administrators in music advocacy
• The importance of visibility and recruiting through positive experiences
• Creative ways to retain students by making them active advocates for your program
• How snacks and fun events like “Band Buddies” can build community in your program
• Lynn's transition into life coaching and mentoring music educators

Resources Mentioned:

• Advocate for Music: 90 Strategies to Support Music Programs
• Links to state and national music education sites for advocacy materials
• Information about the Empowered Music Educator Academy

Don't miss this engaging episode packed with practical advice and fun moments!

Brinckmeyer Enterprises Website

https://brinckmeyer-enterprises.com/

Music Advocacy:

NAfME Advocacy Resources

https://nafme.org/advocacy/

NAMM SupportMusic Coalition

https://www.nammfoundation.org/what-we-do/support-music-coalition

Advocate for Music

https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/9780190219154/

Books to help Band Directors who teach choir and/or general music:

Wander the World with Warm Ups

https://www.halleonard.com/product-family/PC23777/wander-the-world-with-warm-ups

Wander the USA with Warm Ups

https://www.halleonard.com/product-family/PC21955/wander-the-usa-with-warm-ups

Rhythm Rescue

https://www.halleonard.com/product/35031313/rhythm-rescue

The Wonder of Music

https://www.halleonard.com/product-family/PC23218/the-wonder-of-music

In this enlightening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat is joined by Dr. Tim Sexton, brass instructor with the Blue Coats and Associate Director of Bands at Tarpon Springs Leadership Conservatory for the Arts. Fresh from his recent marriage, Dr. Sexton shares invaluable insights on managing a busy summer schedule, the importance of downtime, and strategies for maintaining balance between professional commitments and personal life. This conversation is packed with practical tips for band directors at all stages of their careers, focusing on the necessity of prioritizing personal well-being alongside professional responsibilities.

In this compelling episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Ronald Kearns, a seasoned music educator and author of influential books aimed at enhancing the capabilities of music teachers. Ronald shares invaluable insights from his extensive career and his series of books, which serve as essential resources for music educators navigating the multifaceted challenges of teaching band, orchestra, and jazz.

Key Points Covered:

• Ronald Kearns' journey from a drum major to a revered music educator and author.
• Discussion on the spectrum of responsibilities that music educators face, which go beyond musical instruction to include management, counseling, and administrative roles.
• Insight into Ronald’s books, which are designed to provide quick references for band directors tasked with managing multiple music disciplines, including practical tips for effective music program management.

Benefits for Listeners:

• Learn strategies for managing diverse music programs effectively, including orchestral and jazz ensembles.
• Discover practical tips on budget management, resource allocation, and enhancing student engagement through tailored lesson plans.
• Gain insights into bridging the gap between different music teaching disciplines by applying known skills to new challenges.

Ron’s latest book, Quick Reference Guide for Band Directors Who Teach Jazz, comes out October 16, 2024!

Check out his other books here

In this enlightening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Del Hubers, a veteran band director with over 40 years of experience, to demystify the process of commissioning new music. Del shares his extensive experience in enriching student engagement and enhancing music programs through commissioned works, highlighting the transformative impact on both students and the school community.

Key Points Covered:

• Introduction to the benefits and process of commissioning music for school bands.
• Del Hubers shares insights on starting with commissioning, including practical tips for engaging composers and managing budgets.
• Discussion on how commissioned works can significantly boost student interest and retention in music programs.

Benefits for Listeners:

• Learn how to initiate the commissioning process for creating unique music pieces tailored to your band’s skill level and community.
• Discover strategies for collaborating effectively with composers and integrating new compositions into your music curriculum.
• Gain inspiration to enhance your music program’s appeal and educational value through commissioned works.

Here are some of the works Del has commissioned that are available to purchase for your ensemble!

• Kevin Hoff - 'Fractured'
• Ryan Meeboer - 'Barricade'
• Alexander Carlin - 'Journey Through the Galaxy'
• Carol Brittin Chambers - 'Antz'
• Joel R. Knecht - 'Black Hills Gold Rush'
• Ward Miller - 'Ring True!'
• John-Alex Warner (Scratch Eden) - 'Krakken!'
• Ernesto Aguirre - 'Dragon Rider'
• Kevin Clary - 'Fox Sparrow March'

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat discusses innovative solutions to common classroom management challenges with Cassie and Michael Tucker, the creators of Lesson Launch Pad. This web-based application helps educators automate routine tasks like displaying daily agendas and managing class timers, significantly reducing decision-making fatigue.

Key Points Covered:

• Introduction to Lesson Launch Pad and its key features.
• How automating certain classroom functions can save time and reduce stress for teachers.
• Specific features of Lesson Launch Pad that enhance classroom organization and efficiency.

Benefits for Listeners:

• Learn how to use technology to streamline daily classroom operations.
• Discover strategies to reduce cognitive load, allowing more focus on teaching and less on administrative tasks.
• Gain insights into creating a more organized and controlled classroom environment with automated tools.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Chris Kaatz, Assistant Director of Bands at Stephen F. Austin State University and co-creator of the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App. Chris shares insights into how technology can streamline music rehearsals and improve productivity. He discusses the challenges music educators face and how his app helps tackle these by providing structured rehearsal techniques and enhancing student accountability.

Key Discussions:

• The common struggles music educators face and how technology can help.
• An overview of the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App and its impact on music rehearsals.
• Practical advice on implementing tech solutions to improve music education outcomes.

Listeners will learn:

• How to utilize the Cue Rehearsal Techniques App to enhance rehearsal productivity.
• Strategies for incorporating new technology into traditional music education practices.
• The importance of personal accountability in student learning and rehearsal effectiveness.

Cue Rehearsal Techniques (cuetechniques.com)

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat is joined by Bill Miller, a seasoned composer and educator known for his active involvement in music classrooms through various clinics and private instruction. Bill shares insights from his recent observations in different music education settings, discussing common challenges and offering practical strategies for music educators who might feel stuck or overwhelmed.

Key Discussions:

• The common challenges that music educators face today, including limited resources and high expectations.
• Bill's personal journey through music education, providing a unique perspective on overcoming professional ruts.
• Practical steps for rejuvenating music programs and exploring new pieces to keep the curriculum engaging and fresh.

Listeners will learn:

• Strategies to diversify their music repertoire and effectively manage their music libraries.
• The importance of self-affirmations for maintaining mental and emotional health amidst the demands of teaching.
• How to implement minor changes that can have significant impacts on both educator well-being and student engagement.

https://millermusiccreations.com/subscriptions/

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.com

TPT Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/james-hargreaves

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdQxROpiYFc6v-oHkM0Bprg