Rewards and accolades can be awesome, buuutttt...they can also have a negative effect on our students and our programs if we are not careful. All wisdom from a highly decorated and classic piece of cinema!

The S.E.L. movement happening in our schools is an opportunity for all arts educators to advocate for our students, and our craft. Check it out!!!

It's true...there's not a lot here.

Not many street lights, last names, options for eating out after 8pm. But scratch the surface, and you might find that it's still a great place for great things with great people.

What do you do with a large percussion section? How can you organize part assignments so that every student has an opportunity to contribute, grow, and have fun without the danger of overwhelming the rest of the group...and director?  Let's talk. 

Contact me at: [email protected] 

music by: Brandon Payne

When you host a festival at your school, EVERYONE WINS!  No, I mean...like...everybody. The students, you, the community, you, the administration, the boosters, and most importantly, you!  Let's breakdown why you may want to consider hosting.  And to those who have been at a festival every week for the last three weeks, we salute you!!!

A Backwoods Bandroom BONUS track! The story behind the turkey-call used in the winter concert addressed in an earlier episode!

Hey, let's get sick all holiday break! What a great idea! It will give you time to reflect on everything that you have done in the last six months...and possibility share some stories and goals to focus on in the spring semester.  Let's go!

We're gonna hit you with some "Reading Rainbow" vibes in this episode & some book titles that you can leave in your classroom to lend students, or keep for yourself...you filthy animal! Happy Holidays!!!

This episode explores how to identify your "WHY" and how essential it is for small town teachers!

-Music by Brandon Payne 

-Question/Comment on FB, Instagram, or email Lance ([email protected])

Well, you asked for it! How do go about commissioning for your group? How do small schools find the resources (finances, instrumentation, etc.) to do so? Where do you start?  Find out in this episode, and I'll also share what I learned from my latest commissioning project!