This episode features Chris DeVona, who serves as Assistant Director of Bands at James Madison University. Their conversation includes discussing Chris’s career-long commitment to small schools through the lens of his book Small Band, Big Sound, published by GIA Publications. Plus, they chat about forming community within ensembles, providing opportunity for all students, and more⁠.

Without people, there is no music. Join hosts Julia Baumanis and Scott Edgar as they explore the heart of teaching music. Each week, they sit down with inspiring leaders in music and music education to share stories of identity, belonging, and making a difference through music.

Together, they uncover how music education nurtures growth—not just musically, but socially and emotionally. With engaging conversations, diverse voices, and opportunities for listeners to ask questions, this podcast invites music educators to embrace life-skill development and discover the power of Music for ALL.

This episode is sponsored by GIA Publications. Learn more about GIA’s music education offerings, including Julia and Scott’s personal favorites, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠giamusic.com/hotm⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Learn more about Chris's book with GIA here: https://giamusic.com/resource/small-band-big-sound-book-11191.