The sessions cover preparation for performances, setting up a new big band program, upskilling for newer directors, and elevating existing programs through ambitious goals and fostering an inclusive environment.
| Preparing for competitions/events | This session, lasting 45-90 minutes, is suitable for individuals and groups of directors. It covers preparing for a performance, including choosing the right event, highlighting strengths, integrating weaker elements, repertoire selection, rehearsal scheduling, routine importance, and the need for authenticity in band preparation for a competition or important event. |
| Setting up a new program | This workshop, lasting 45-90 minutes, aims to guide the setup of a new big band program. It covers teaching high-level big band concepts to young bands, selecting repertoire, rehearsal functioning, and student musical responsibilities. The focus is on engaging students in creating and valuing musical moments and setting performance goals. |
| Upskilling for newer directors | This workshop supports music teachers in unfamiliar ensemble direction roles, focusing on big band directing. It covers differences from other genres, connecting with tradition, band setup, swing fundamentals, musical relationships, teamwork, essential recordings, rehearsal concepts, chart selection, conducting skills, and instrumentation importance. |
| Elevating your existing program | This workshop emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals for a big band program, identifying and leveraging strengths, establishing a supportive program structure, ensuring student attendance and engagement, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, and supporting the development of individual players. The role of the director in communication, advocacy, and differentiation is crucial for the band’s success. |
| Why EVERY player matters | This workshop explores the unique role of each member in a big band. It focuses on the responsibilities of players in different sections, emphasizing how understanding these roles leads to increased ownership and contribution to the band. Topics cover sax, trumpet, trombone sections, rhythm section, and essential connections across sections for an effective big band. |