Kenny Hansen of Blue Springs South High School joins me to discuss his award winning program, the importance of expecting excellence, the value of marches, and the story behind his band's exceptional YouTube channel.

Topics:

• Kenny’s background and the program at Blue Springs South High School.
• Blue Springs South’s recent run to to the BOA finals in Indianapolis and the value of the marching program to the rest of the band program at the school.
• The value of marches and why they are so important to a successful band program.
• Having visitors to the band room and allowing people to help you become a better teacher and your band a better band.
• The exceptional website and YouTube channel of the Blue Springs South Band and tips and thoughts for a successful social media presence.
• Learning to be prepared for every possible situation as a way to reduce stress and have positive reactions during those moments when students make a mistake.

Links:

• Tiger Pride - The Blue Springs South High School Band
• Blue Spring South YouTube Channel
• Bands of America
• Cherry Blossom Parade
• Eugene Bagley: National Emblem March
• Blankenburg: He Does Not Yield to the Sun
• Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral

Biography:

Ken is very blessed to be teaching at Blue Springs South since 2012. Ken is an active guest conductor and clinician throughout Missouri. Bands under the direction of Ken Hansen have performed in great concert and marching venues across the country in New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, St. Louis, Indianapolis and many other cities. Ken was named Missouri’s “Most Influential Band Director” by the School Band and Orchestra Magazine in 2014. Ken has been blessed to teach in four different districts and two states in his career. He has taught band from grades 6-12 for the largest part of his career.  

At Blue Springs South, Ken Hansen teaches the Jaguar Pride Marching Band, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Freshman Percussion, assists Music Appreciation and assists at Delta Woods Middle School and Moreland Ridge Middle Schools.  

Ken graduated from Central Methodist College in 1997 with a Bachelors of Music Education. In 1998, he graduated from the University of Missouri - Columbia with a Masters in Music Education.