Band Director Boot Camp

by Lesley Moffat

Welcome to Band Director Boot Camp: Productivity and Wellness Tips for Busy Band Directors. This is your special haven where we march towards sustainable teaching and healthier living, in harmony, note by note.

The path of a band director can often be intense, navigating through sheets of music and piles of administrative work. You might find yourself constantly "practicing" by going over the same routines, stuck in a  ... 

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Podcast episodes

  • Season 2

  • "Harmonizing Life: The Power of Mindfulness in Music Education"

    "Harmonizing Life: The Power of Mindfulness in Music Education"

    In today's episode of Band Director Boot Camp, join your host, Lesley Moffat, as she explores the profound impact of mindfulness on personal well-being and teaching practices with Elizabeth Weismehl. With 30 years of experience in teaching music across all age groups, Elizabeth shares her transformative journey towards a more vibrant and purposeful life through mindfulness practices. Discover how integrating simple yet powerful routines like gratitude reflections, mindful breathing, and setting daily intentions can lead to increased productivity and a positive classroom atmosphere. Elizabeth's story is a testament to the power of self-care in enriching both personal life and professional impact. Go and Shine! Part 1: Nine Strategies for Cultivating a Positive Mindset Go and Shine! Part 2: Eight Strategies for Cultivating a Positive Rehearsal Space

  • "Crafting Success: Empowering Student Teachers"

    "Crafting Success: Empowering Student Teachers"

    In this insightful episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat sits down with David Duarte, an experienced band director and arts administrator with over three decades in education. David shares an innovative approach to student teaching that prioritizes reflection and growth, drawn from his own rich experience and his recent work in Washougal High School and as host of Yamaha's Music for All podcast, Culture Before Content. Discover how David's student teaching framework can transform the mentorship experience, ensuring student teachers not only learn but thrive as they step into their own classrooms. This conversation is a must-listen for any music educator looking to enhance their mentorship skills and foster the next generation of teachers. Website: Davidduarte.org Resources: davidduarte.org/music-ed-resources Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5IYWQX4Kg5EOrZhZxe2y5r?si=Mrk8OPwXQNCOuUeRe1HMIw

  • "The Resilient Director: Navigating Longevity in Music Education"

    "The Resilient Director: Navigating Longevity in Music Education"

    In this heartening episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes Bill Stevens, a seasoned band director with a 22-year tenure. Bill shares his journey from his unexpected start in a high school band to battling a life-altering condition that threatened to derail his passion and career. Despite these challenges, Bill provides insightful strategies that have helped him maintain a fruitful career and balance. He delves into how he navigated the tough times, managed his condition, and what he has learned about longevity in music education. Listeners will leave with actionable advice on dealing with personal challenges while remaining committed to their passion for teaching music. Music Educator Live! - https://bandbuzz.org/music-educator-live/ The Music Educator Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/TheMusicEducator/ Music Educator Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOslvKAR7CetOY5MvIvSBA The Music Educator TPT Store - https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Music-Educator

  • "Circus Skills and Symphony Thrills: A Conductor's Journey to Wellness"

    "Circus Skills and Symphony Thrills: A Conductor's Journey to Wellness"

    Join host Lesley Moffat in this uplifting episode of Band Director Boot Camp, where we explore the harmony between passion for music and the art of well-being. Our guest, Samantha Post, shares her unique story of combining her love for band directing with circus performance skills, and how these talents aid her in managing a chronic illness. Tune in for strategies on staying organized, using accessibility tech, and maintaining physical wellness—all set to the tune of an inspiring life symphony.

  • "Unlocking Rhythm: The Tik-A Tee Method Unveiled"

    "Unlocking Rhythm: The Tik-A Tee Method Unveiled"

    Join us as Lesley Moffat chats with Ron Castonguay about his fresh approach to sight reading with his "Tik-A Tee Method." With over 31 years of experience, Ron dives into the challenges of teaching rhythm across various ensembles and how his method streamlines learning for students and teachers alike. Discover how simplifying rhythm can not only make your teaching more effective but also inject fun into learning music. If you've ever wrestled with the intricacies of sight reading in your classroom, this episode offers insights that could transform your teaching strategy. More information on the book release and pre-orders can be found at: https://www.roncastonguay.com/author-clinician