In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Linda Pulley for a powerful conversation about building strong program culture and how to manage high expectations in a way that supports both excellence and student growth.

Linda shares concrete strategies music educators can use immediately to establish clarity, consistency, and trust within their programs. We talk about how culture shapes rehearsal efficiency, student buy-in, and long-term success, as well as how directors can set ambitious goals without burning themselves—or their students—out.

This episode is packed with practical ideas for aligning expectations, communicating standards clearly, and creating an environment where students feel both challenged and supported. Whether you’re wanting to make changes or reflecting on your program’s direction, this conversation offers tools you can put into practice right away.

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Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we’re joined by Gary Lewis for a wide-ranging conversation about music education.

We also explore how partnerships with local professional musicians can make a huge difference, not just for students, but for teachers, schools, and the broader arts community. Gary shares insight into how directors can begin building relationships with professional ensembles, what opportunities often exist, and how orchestras and educators can support one another in powerful ways.

This episode is full of perspective for band and orchestra directors who are looking to enrich their students’ musical experiences and engage more deeply with the arts community around them.

Whether you’re in a large metro area or a smaller region with limited access to professional ensembles, this conversation will help you think differently about collaboration, advocacy, and opportunity in music education.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

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Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Rebecca Warren, a small-school band director from North Dakota and a founding member of the National Association of Small School Bands. This conversation is all about the realities—and strengths—of teaching in small school band programs.

We talk candidly about finding mentors when you may be the only director in the building, setting meaningful standards with limited resources, and building a strong program culture regardless of size. Rebecca shares practical strategies and perspective that remind us small programs are not “less than”—they’re simply different, and often incredibly impactful.

Whether you teach in a rural district, a small enrollment school, or are supporting colleagues who do, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and ideas you can implement right away.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

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Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

In this episode of the Common Time Podcast, we’re joined by Michael Gaines, a renowned program designer known for his thoughtful, student-centered approach to ensemble design. 

Our conversation explores the philosophy behind strong program design, how directors can align design choices with their students and resources, and the importance of clarity, communication, and intentionality throughout the process. Michael also discusses collaboration between designers and directors, long-term planning, and how great design supports—not overshadows—student growth.

Whether you’re designing a marching band program, refining your indoor shows, or simply looking to bring more purpose to your planning, this episode offers insights that will help you think more deeply about how design impacts both performance and people.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

Join our community focused on growth here: 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/groups/commontimecollective

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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

We’re doing something a little different—and a whole lot of fun! Our first ever HOLIDAY SPECIAL! We invited our producers (and spouses!), Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer, to join us on the mic for a festive episode full of stories, laughter, and a behind-the-scenes look at Common Time Podcast.

From concert mishaps to family traditions, from holiday travel to controversial holiday opinions, this episode offers a warm, relatable, and humorous look at the season through the eyes of the people who support the podcast—and the hosts—every step of the way.

Grab some hot cocoa (or some champagne), take a break from the December madness, and enjoy this festive, laughter-filled episode with the Common Time family.

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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 special Season 3 wrap-up episode of the Common Time Podcast, we’re closing out another incredible semester of conversations, learning, laughter, and community. Today, the hosts sit down together to revisit the biggest moments of the season, answer listener-submitted questions, celebrate outstanding educators, and share a sneak peek at what’s coming in Season 4.

This episode also features a special Standing Ovation recognizing Michigan educator David Uhrig, whose work in the Rochester HS band program continues to inspire students and colleagues alike.

The hosts reflect on their top lessons from the season, highlight standout moments and advice from this season’s guests, and hand out a few fun Common Time Awards. From the hardest we laughed to the insights that stuck with us, it’s a warm celebration of the music educators who joined us and those who listen every week.

Thank you for being part of our community. We’ll be back soon with more conversations to support, challenge, and inspire music educators everywhere.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

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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 the Common Time Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Sarah McKoin to unpack the world of graduate studies in conducting and music education. Whether you're considering a master’s or DMA,  or simply curious about what advanced study can offer, this conversation is full of clarity and practical guidance.

We discuss the graduate school application process, how to evaluate programs thoughtfully, and what to expect from the day-to-day experience once you're in. Dr. McKoin also shares red flags and green flags to watch for when visiting campuses, meeting faculty, and comparing programs. From professional growth to artistic development to the realities of ensemble leadership at the graduate level, this episode provides an honest and helpful look at what graduate study can—and should—offer emerging conductors and educators.

Dr. McKoin brings years of experience leading one of the country’s respected conducting programs, and her perspective will be valuable for anyone looking to take the next step in their musical journey.

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Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

This week on the Common Time Podcast, we’re hearing from a new perspective — a student. Our guest, Miguel Retto, is a senior from East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, studying Industrial and Operations Engineering with a minor in Music at the University of Michigan. A four-year member of the Michigan Marching Band, Miguel has served as a Rank Leader, Section Leader, and Fanfare Band Conductor for the tenor saxophone section.

In this episode, Miguel shares what made his high-school music experience so formative and how those moments inspired him to continue with music into college. We talk about the impact of strong teachers, the power of culture, and how meaningful connections through music have shaped his leadership and personal growth.

Whether you’re a music educator hoping to understand your students’ experiences more deeply or a student finding your place in the ensemble world, this episode offers genuine insight into why music education matters, and how it changes lives long after the final performance.

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Hosts: Dr. John Pasquale and Dr. David Clemmer

Producers: Jessica Pasquale and Theresa Clemmer

This week on the Common Time Podcast, we continue our special host-feature series with Dr. John Pasquale, Co-Host of Common Time Podcast and Director of the Michigan Marching Band.

In this wide-ranging conversation, John shares insights from his career as a conductor, educator, and leader in the music education world. We talk about his teaching philosophy, his approach to leadership and collaboration, and the lessons he’s learned from guiding one of the most visible marching programs in the country.

John also reflects on his experiences with his speech impediment, imposter syndrome, and learning to prioritize his personal life.

Whether you’re a director, student, or simply passionate about the art of music education, this episode is packed with inspiration, perspective, and real-world wisdom.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

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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

This week on the Common Time Podcast, we’re switching things up! Our guest is none other than one of our own hosts — Dr. David Clemmer.

In this episode, David opens up about his teaching philosophy, career journey, and the experiences that have shaped him as both a musician and educator. We also explore his thoughts on the future of music education—what inspires him, what challenges concern him, and what keeps him motivated to keep learning, leading, and connecting through music.

It’s a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation that offers valuable insight into the realities of teaching, growth, and finding balance in the ever-evolving world of music education.

Connect with Common Time Podcast:

Follow us on social media at @CommonTimePodcast

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

Nominate someone for a Standing Ovation: 🔗 https://forms.gle/i6aqoZxY85RMRwGP7

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