In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Brett Richardson to explore the impact of chamber music on student musicians and music programs. We discuss why chamber music is such a valuable tool for developing independent musicianship, fostering collaboration, and enhancing overall ensemble performance.

Join us as we cover:
🎶 The benefits of incorporating chamber music into your program.
🏆 How chamber music helps students develop leadership, listening, and problem-solving skills.
🗓️ Practical ways to introduce chamber ensembles without overwhelming your schedule.
💡 Creative ideas for chamber performances and student-led groups.

Whether you already use chamber music in your program or are looking for ways to get started, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you make the most of small ensemble experiences.

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Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

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Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Joni Perez to explore the art of assembling, leading, and managing a successful marching band show design team. From selecting the right collaborators to effectively implementing a vision into your program, Joni shares invaluable insights that can help directors at any level refine their approach to show design.

Tune in as we discuss:
🎭 How to build a design team that aligns with your program’s vision.
📝 Strategies for clear communication and collaboration with designers, arrangers, and staff.
🎶 Balancing creative ideas with what’s achievable for your students.
📅 Implementing the design process into your season timeline.
🔑 Managing expectations and making adjustments along the way.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your competitive program or simply refine your show design process, this episode is packed with strategies to help you lead with confidence.

Follow us on social media and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we’re joined by Barry Houser to discuss a topic that impacts every band director—helping students continue their musical journey beyond high school. We dive into the common roadblocks that prevent students from joining or staying in college band and explore strategies directors can use to encourage participation.

Tune in as we discuss:
🎓 The biggest challenges students face when considering college band.🎶 How to foster a culture where continuing music education is the norm.📢 Conversations directors can have with students and parents to encourage participation.🔄 Recruiting and retention strategies that apply at all levels, from middle school to college.🏫 The value of college band—no matter the major!

Whether you're looking to boost retention in your own program or help students see the lifelong benefits of staying involved in music, this episode is full of actionable insights you can implement right away.

Follow us on social media and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we’re joined by Melodianne Mallow to talk about the power of well-designed systems in setting up effective rehearsals. From daily routines to long-term planning, the right structures can make a huge difference in student engagement, musical growth, classroom management, and overall success.

Tune in as we discuss:
✅ Essential systems to maximize rehearsal efficiency.
🎯 Strategies for clear communication and student accountability.
📅 Planning ahead to minimize stress and maximize progress.
🛠️ How strong systems improve classroom management and create a positive learning environment.

Whether you're a new director or a seasoned educator looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you run more effective rehearsals.

Follow us on social media and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode ofCommon Time Podcast, we sit down with Todd Dixon to discuss the power of student empowerment in rehearsals and how to foster a positive, collaborative, and constructive culture in your program. A strong rehearsal environment doesn’t just lead to better performances—it shapes students into thoughtful musicians and leaders.

Join us as we explore:
🎵 Strategies for giving students ownership in rehearsals.
🤝 How to create a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration.
🔄 The role of director mindset in shaping rehearsal dynamics.
🌱 Fostering student growth while maintaining high musical standards.

Whether you’re looking for ways to build student buy in, encourage engagement, or improve rehearsal effectiveness, this conversation is packed with insights you can bring to your program today.

Follow us on social media and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Brian Britt, Director of The Pride of Oklahoma and Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Oklahoma. With years of experience leading a top-tier collegiate program, Brian shares invaluable insights into organization, time management, and the key elements that set both directors and their programs up for long-term success.

Join us as we discuss:

Whether you're leading a middle school, high school, or collegiate program, this conversation is full of practical advice you can implement right away.

Follow us on social media and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

We’re back for our Season 2 premier!

It’s our Season 1 finale! In this special episode, we’re reflecting on an incredible inaugural season, sharing personal highlights, and giving you a sneak peek at what’s ahead.

We kick things off with a new segment we’re testing—Ask the Hosts! Listeners sent in some fantastic questions on social media, and we dive into a few of them this week. We reflected on our biggest takeaways and recurring themes from this season. We share some of our most thought-provoking moments and personal highlights from the season, giving shoutouts to standout episodes and guests.

Finally, we wrap things up with a look forward to Season 2, starting mid-January. We’ve already booked some exciting guests and are cooking up new projects, but we’re always open to suggestions! Feel free to drop us a DM with ideas for future episodes.

Thank you for an amazing first season! We’re so grateful to have you on this journey and can’t wait to see you back in 2025.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of Common Time Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome the renowned composer John Mackey! Known for his bold and innovative compositions, John shares the fascinating journey of his career in music.

We dive into his history with composition, exploring the path that led him to become one of the most well known composers in the band world. John discusses how he collaborates with band directors, conductors, and students to bring his music to life, providing insights into building meaningful connections with performers.

We also get a behind-the-scenes look at his compositional process—how he takes an idea from concept to fully realized work. Along the way, John offers advice for directors working with living composers and tips for preparing his music for performance.

This episode is a must-listen for music educators, conductors, composers and anyone curious about the art of composition and collaboration.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

With the Midwest Clinic just a couple of weeks away, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Richard Crain to Common Time Podcast. Dr. Crain brings an incredible 64 years of experience in music education to our conversation, making this a truly special episode.

We dive into his time with the Midwest Clinic, exploring the event's growth and its impact on music educators worldwide. He shares inspiring and heartfelt stories from his decades-long career, illustrating the power of music education to transform lives.

You’ll also hear his invaluable advice for current music teachers, including how to stay inspired, continue to learn, and embrace the long-term journey of teaching.

This episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, laughs, and practical tips for every music educator—don’t miss it!

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments below or on our social media channels. Let’s keep the discussion going!

Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer