43 Best Band Directors Podcasts to Listen to (2026)

Welcome to After Sectionals, the podcast about all things band recorded when it's fresh on our minds. We come to you from the Stiles MS band hall - home of chickens and lost tuners. Join our staff (Darcy Vogt Williams, Jenna Yee, and TJ West) as we talk band pedagogy, talk smack, and everything in between right after sectionals. more

Our mission is to share practical advice and explore topics that will help every band director, no matter your experience level, as well as music education students who are working to join us in the coming years.To gain access to all show notes and audio files please Subscribe to the podcast and consider supporting the show on Patreaon - using the button at the top of growingband.com more

Quick and easy tips to help you be a better band teacher.

An Urban Music Education Podcast hosted by Eric and Justin. They provide tips and strategies through honest discussions about their experience teaching music in an Urban setting. The goal is to provide a positive and solution-based narrative to create more effective, compassionate and culturally relevant music educators. more

So, you're finishing school or you've signed a contract. While other new band directors are just trying to survive that first year, what can you do to thrive? Each episode will give you direct, usable information based on actual experiences relevant to your needs as a future or beginning band director. So grab your earbuds or turn up the car stereo, and let me give you some great program notes for success. Episodes release on either the 2nd or 4th Thursdays of each month (sometimes both). more

Conversations with teachers, composers, and performers of music for winds and percussion.

That Band Life is a podcast about making our careers as music educators more fulfilling so we can be happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative! more

Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas is the definitive music education podcast for teachers at every level. Join renowned composers Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas as they share their wealth of knowledge from decades in the world of instrumental music.Brian's successful tenure as a composer has made his works a staple in concert halls and classrooms worldwide, while Chris's rich background as a public school music teacher has given him unparalleled insight into the daily realities of the classroom. Now, working together through Alfred Music and MakeMusic, Brian and Chris bring their expertise directly to you. Each episode offers relevant and helpful insights on topics that matter most to music educators. You'll also hear from a variety of special guests who are leaders in the field, ready to discuss impactful music education trends, rehearsal techniques, and program growth ideas.Whether you're a new teacher looking for foundational tips or a veteran director seeking fresh inspiration, this podcast is designed to be your essential resource. Tune in and get ready to Take Notes! more

A podcast hosted by two aspiring music educators. Steve Peterson and Jack Hinkle discuss best practices, relevant for a band director or 7th grade science teacher. more

Welcome to The Band Room! A podcast bringing you the best of band. Host, Dylan Rook Maddix sits down with the movers and shakers of the wind world, conductors, composers, teachers and performers. Have your ears opened to the new and exciting and take your seat in The Band Room! more

A podcast designed to discuss and serve the needs of Texas Band Directors!

Intermission discusses the day in the life of two Band Directors covering anything and everything band related. We'll share stories and tips based of our experiences in enjoying what we do, having fun, and learning on the daily. more

Dr. Steve Shanley, Alan Feirer, and national thought leaders explore current issues in music education, with practical application for K-12 music educators. more

Band Talk with Charlie Menghini and Friends features conversations with band directors, conductors, musicians and friends from the music industry and beyond. more

band yap is hosted by texas band directors alexa and jose sanchez, who bring real classroom experience to a podcast for band directors, music educators, and anyone who loves the band world. each episode dives into music education, band directing, teaching strategies, and culture, from concert band to marching band and everything in between. expect honest conversations, practical insights, and plenty of yap. more

After Hours:  Conversations for Music Educators is a music education podcast from Amro Music Stores, Inc. Our After Hours podcast host, Nick Averwater, facilitates engaging conversations each week with band directors, private music teachers, general music educators, orchestra directors, and other music industry professionals just like you. Each podcast guest shares practical advice on things like classroom management in your band program, placing beginners on instruments, band and orchestra recruitment strategies, band boosters, fundraising, and more. The goal of After Hours is to provide a podcast for band directors, orchestra directors, and music educators with strategies for both 'on-podium' and 'off-podium' skills that can help create a school music program that you can be proud of. If you can't find what you're looking for in our current episodes, we'd love to hear from you! Send us an email with questions or topics you'd like to see addressed in the podcast. more

Educational Resources for the Marching Arts

A podcast for music teachers and band directors. Join our conversations where we discuss strategies to bring balance to your life and career. more

Bringing world-class professional development for music educators straight to your phone! Tune in for insights, strategies, and inspiration from the best in the business. Elevate your ensemble, one episode at a time. more

Welcome to the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, the podcast with productivity and wellness tips for busy band directors so they can amplify their impact—not their workload. This is your space to find practical strategies, fresh inspiration, and a community that understands the unique demands of your role. As a band director, you're constantly balancing rehearsals, performances, administrative tasks, and student needs. It's easy to feel like more effort is the only solution. But what if you could elevate your program and protect your time and energy? That's exactly what this podcast is here to help you do. Over the past four seasons, we've connected with directors from all walks of life who have discovered smarter, more sustainable ways to run their programs. Each episode is packed with actionable tips and real-world strategies to help you work more efficiently, prioritize what matters, and create a thriving band culture—without running yourself into the ground. Through every conversation, we break down the barriers that make this profession overwhelming and build a community where we support each other's growth. We celebrate the wins, learn from the tough moments, and stay focused on one mission: making it possible for you to lead with impact and maintain your own well-being. Because the work you do matters—and so do you. Join us and discover how to get more done with less stress, reignite your passion, and make every day on the podium more rewarding. Tune in to the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast—where we amplify your impact, not your workload. more

Welcome to Pass the Baton: Empowering Students in Music Education! Kathryn Finch and Theresa Hoover are two music educators passionate about helping teachers transform their students from passive consumers to vibrant creatives. Each episode will amplify the voices of music teachers who are already passing the baton and empowering their own music students. Whether you teach band, orchestra, general music, chorus, or pre-service music teachers - there's an episode for you! more

Ask Mike is the go‑to podcast for music educators, band directors, and music program leaders seeking real answers rooted in real‑world experience. Hosted by veteran Texas Band Director Mike Lunney and co‑host Derrick Killam , a long-time leader in supporting Texas Music Education programs, the show focuses on learning from hard‑earned lessons, so you don't make the same mistakes yourself. 🎵 No fluff. No guesswork. Just experience. 👉 Don't reinvent the wheel — just Ask Mike! About the Hosts Mike Lunney With 31 successful years as a head band director in Texas , Mike's bands were consistently recognized as superior , and his insights come straight from the podium, not a textbook. Today, Mike remains active as a clinician, mentor, and adjudicator , continuing to shape the next generation of music educators. Derrick Killam A lifelong supporter of school music programs across Texas since 1990. Derrick brings a unique industry perspective from decades in music retail , having served as a Repair Tech, Repair Shop Foreman, Education Specialist , and now as a key member of Tarpley Music , a NAMM Top 100 Dealer and industry leading Musical Instrument Retailer in the United States. more

Join our panel of directors as we share a laugh and shine a light on our own band rooms.

Welcome to the Copper State Marching Podcast!Join us as we dive deep into the vibrant world of marching bands across Arizona and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a proud parent, or simply a fan of the art form, our podcast is your go-to source for all things marching!Each episode features engaging interviews with talented band directors, passionate students, and industry experts who share their insights, experiences, and tips for success. We'll explore the latest trends, discuss the challenges faced by marching bands, and celebrate the incredible talent found in our Copper State.From competition highlights to behind-the-scenes stories, we aim to inspire and connect the marching band community. So grab your instruments, tune in, and let's march together into the exciting world of music and performance!This podcast would not be possible without the cooperation of the Arizona Marching Band Association. Thank you AzMBA Board and partnerships! more

A podcast that explores and promotes the viability of music programs in small schools. Recordings include ideas, advice, and stories from the band room of a rural school band director! more

Hosts, Erik and Jen, are two veteran instrumental music educators from New Jersey who love to get together and talk shop. Every episode promises to entertain and inform listeners with the hosts' real-world experiences as band directors, marching instructors, jazz educators, musicians, spouses, and parents. In addition, Erik and Jen chat with guests about their own stories and experiences in the music and education fields. more

The First Six Notes Podcast helps music educators build stronger programs, improve rehearsals, and make teaching more manageable. Hosted by Kevin Hoff and Jessica Frank of Classroom Composers, each episode features practical, classroom-tested conversations about beginning band and orchestra, classroom management, curriculum, rehearsal strategies, recruitment, retention, program growth, and the everyday realities of teaching music. Whether you are a new music teacher or an experienced educator looking for fresh ideas, you will leave each episode with strategies you can use with your students right away. Because every great musical journey begins with the first six notes. Connect with Classroom Composers Teachers Pay Teachers https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Classroom-Composers Website https://classroomcomposers.com Join our email community https://classroomcomposers.myflodesk.com/newslettersignup Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Classroom-Composers/61590769772268/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/classroomcomposers/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@classroomcomposers more

This is a 24/7 resource for band directors, by band directors. Through interviews, panel discussions and live experiences listeners will get a chance to learn from top music educators from around the country. more

Candid conversations with today's most influential band directors.

Podcast about teaching concert band, learning about music, how to practice, and whatever else I feel like talking about more

Beyond The Baton is a podcast for music educators who know the job doesn't stop when the music ends.Hosted by a band director in the trenches, this show explores the real work behind the podium - program building, leadership, classroom systems, and the everyday challenges that shape successful ensembles. From practical strategies to honest conversations about the highs and lows of teaching, Beyond The Baton is where passion meets purpose.If you're building, rebuilding, or sustaining a band program, this podcast is your space to grow, reflect, and lead…beyond the baton. beyondthebaton.substack.com more

🎶 The Music Educator PodcastThe Music Educator Podcast is a practical, real-world podcast for music teachers who want to grow their craft, strengthen their programs, and sustain their passion for teaching.Hosted by veteran music educator Bill Stevens, the show explores the instructional, organizational, and human sides of music education—from band, orchestra, choir, and guitar classrooms to leadership, advocacy, and career longevity. Episodes blend actionable teaching strategies, rehearsal techniques, classroom management insights, and honest conversations about the realities of being a music educator today.Whether you are a first-year teacher, a seasoned director, or a music leader looking to refine your impact, The Music Educator Podcast offers grounded advice, reflective discussions, and encouragement rooted in authentic classroom experience.Topics include:* Effective rehearsal and instructional strategies* Classroom management and student engagement* Program building and sustainability* Professional growth and leadership in music education* Navigating the challenges—and joys—of teaching musicIf you believe music changes lives—and that great educators make that possible—this podcast is for you. more

Featuring veteran band directors, Chris McLellan and Tina Parr, the Unconducted Curriculum Podcast discusses everything the school band director faces 'off the podium.' From administrative duties to dealing with upset parents, we tackle the issues that aren't usually discussed in this medium. With high school band as well as student teacher supervisor perspectives from Chris and middle school perspectives from TIna, there is something for all levels of band directing.Come enjoy a lighthearted conversation between friends of 27 years as well as invited guests and see what the 'Unconducted Curriculum' is all about!This podcast will feature guests on a regular basis. more

Sponsored by the NC chapter of the National Band Association, The Band Office Podcast is a show that offers advice, words of encouragement, and possible solutions to issues band directors may encounter during their time in and out of the band classroom. more

A podcast for rural band directors from rural band directors.

Band directors across the country end up in social situations where they can share, laugh, and dig into methods and procedures. These meetups are different than a conference session, PD meetings, PLCs, or whatever alphabet soup is the flavor of the week. These get-togethers happen after the performance, judging, all-state, session, or whatever. They usually happen at a local establishment with frosty beverages and loosened apprehension and honesty!At the ATS, we hope to facilitate this same collaborative opportunity both in person and virtually. drsnave.substack.com more

A former public school Band Director of 15 years, I decided to leave the classroom to help Band Directors become elite leaders of young people. By setting the example for young people in how to take care of themselves, Band Directors can radically alter the course of so many lives for the better...if they can lead by example first! more

Bandwidth is a podcast about band directors and their unique challenges and solutions to burnout. Join us to hear about people's journeys and how they manage their lives while working in one of the most demanding jobs in the field of education. more

While there are many podcasts for the school band director, many do not focus on the average program and average needs. The goal of this podcast is to show vulnerability as a band director and showcase that even the smallest successes in an average program can lead to great rewards in the future, both for you as the educator, as well as for your students, program, and community! more

Discussions of topics of interest to band directors or other music educators. Content is subjective and aims to provide opinions, tools of the trade, hacks, and other content. While intended for any interested party, focus will be directed towards educators in the earlier stages of their careers. more

Derek Phelps is a media major, tuba player, theatre and musical theatre veteran, and now a band and choir director who returned to music after 30 years away. The Accidental Music Teacher explores what it's like to teach music without taking the traditional path. From relearning fundamentals and battling impostor syndrome to building programs and encouraging students, this is an honest, practical, and encouraging podcast for music educators finding their own way. Learning music while teaching it. more

The Marching Arts Utah Podcast is a weekly deep dive into the people, programs, and stories shaping the marching arts across the state of Utah.Hosted by filmmaker and longtime marching arts documentarian Matt Judkins, each episode features conversations with directors, staff, and student leaders from a different marching band program.Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Utah marching bands develop their identity, push competitive boundaries, and create meaningful experiences for students. From design philosophy and rehearsal strategies to program growth and legacy, this podcast documents what is actually happening on the inside. more

Drew and JP are two band directors in South Carolina. They found themselves talking a lot about lots of different topics related to band and life, and thought they should record the conversations! more