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WEBINARS
The purpose of our monthly webinars is to provide targeted professional development for rural band directors. Topics are geared towards offering solutions to issues that rural directors face every day.
"Gettin' it Done, No Matter What" - Episode 4: Building a Comprehensive Program
Dr. Lia Snead, Dr. Sam Rowley, and
DeVon Pickett
In this episode, the panel discusses the many facets of a comprehensive program from repertoire selection to collaborating with colleagues.
"Gettin' it Done, No Matter What" - Episode 3: The Influence of College Band Culture on High School Bands
Dr. Lia Snead, Dr. Sam Rowley, and
DeVon Pickett
In this episode, the panel discusses the history of HBCU bands and how they see the culture influencing modern day high school bands.
"Gettin' it Done, No Matter What" - Episode 2: Building a Fundamental Band Sound Follow-up with Q&A
Dr. Lia Snead, Dr. Sam Rowley, and
DeVon Pickett
In this episode, the panel answers questions from attendees and also offers advice in the way of pedagogy and resources.
"Gettin' it Done, No Matter What" - Episode 1: Building a Fundamental Band Sound
Dr. Lia Snead, Dr. Sam Rowley, and
DeVon Pickett
In this episode, the panel discusses the 5 T's of Effective Music Performance: In Tone, In Tune, In Time, In Technique, and In Timbre/Texture.
Marching Band Series:
General Effect
Mark Hoskins, Ron Ryles, & Dr. Ward Miller
The panel discusses common general effect issues in marching and also offers advice on how to increase the effect in a show.
Marching Band Series:
Music
Dr. Marcus Morris, Blair Callaway, Jeffrey Rowser, and Dr. Todd Howell
The panel discusses common musical issues in marching band and also provides advice for how to improve the musical aspects of a show
Marching Band Series:
Visual
Dr. Polly Middleton, Andy Hursey, and
Stephen Hendricks
The panel discusses common visual issues in marching band and also provides advice for designing the visual aspect of a show.
November 2024:
Writing for Rural Band Directors
Brianna Cantwell
Executive Director of the Piedmont Wind Symphony, Brianna Cantwell, shares tips and advice for writing grants - specifically targeted for rural band directors.
September 2024:
When Should I Go Back to School?
Dr. Melody Causby, Dr. Catheryn Foster, & Dr. Shawn Knopp
The panel discusses their own experiences of returning to school for an advanced degree and answers questions from attendees.
August 2024:
Welcome Back!
Dr. Melody Causby, Dr. Catheryn Foster, & Dr. Shawn Knopp
Our RBDA Executive Board members share a "Welcome back to school!" message with our members as well as other updates.
July 2024:
Method Book Basics
Steve Hendricks & Thomas Graham
Method book author, Steve Hedrick, and Virginia band director, Thomas Graham discuss their process for selecting a method book as well as how it should function in your overall curriculum.
June 2024:
Error Detection
Dr. Catheryn Foster & Dr. Ward Miller
Often, band directors can lose sight of the joy in their jobs when their ensembles are struggling. We want to be able to focus on expression, phrasing, and higher-level musicianship skills, but how do we do that if there are still wrong rhythms and pitches? Dr. Catheryn Foster and Dr. Ward Miller provide practical tips for Improving error detection skills through a systematic process.
April 2024:
Recruiting & Retention in the Rural Setting
Jonathon Steinman
Alabama band director, Jonathon Steinman, has a wealth of experience in growing a small, rural band program. His unique perspective is sure to give you many great ideas to implement in your own program.
March 2024:
Rural Marching Band
Erin Lloyd & Kirsten Smallwood
Rural Kansas band directors, Erin Lloyd and Kirsten Smallwood, share about their experiences with marching band in rural areas as well as their innovative marching band assessment.
February 2024:
From the Judge’s Perspective
Dr. Shawn Knopp
Dr. Shawn Knopp shares what it is like to be on the judge’s side of the table in both concert band adjudication as well as solo and ensemble assessment. Included are tips for directors AND their students.
November 2023:
Concert Band: Making the Most of Your Instrumentation and Size
Dr. Ward Miller & Wally Shaw
Dr. Ward Miller shares his expertise on re-writing parts in the concert setting to better fit your instrumentation, and Wally Shaw gives advice on what is acceptable in changing instrumentation from a judge’s perspective.
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