Misc. / Band Administration - Dynamic Marching

Recent Features

Livin' on a Prayer Apr 16, 2010

As a classroom teacher and a marching band instructor I have the opportunity to get to know over 300 high school students each year. It is no wonder that every time I go to get coffee, I run into a parent who knows me by name and who thinks that I know which student(s) they belong to! The average adult does not get to work with the future leaders of our businesses and government on a day to day basis like I do, but I know first-hand that the future is bright. Many adults might criticize "Generation Y" for being lazy, acting entitled, or twittering/facebooking too much, but there are some great kids out there with caring hearts and stellar work ethics.

The Goldmine in Your Back Yard: Freshman Success Mar 9, 2010

The scariest moment for any director is the day the class requests for the following year arrive. It's a make-or-break moment, when you see how many new performers will be matriculating up to replace the seasoned veterans that are on their way out. It is the hope of any director that the latter number is considerably larger than the former, but that also means a larger class to bring up to the level of your veteran performers. The following list includes some ideas you can use to help these students reach the level needed to continue and improve the success of the program.

Heatstroke in the Marching Band Activity Jun 19, 2009

Summer rehearsals are often long and hot and if you aren't lucky enough to have access to a grass field, usually happen on asphalt which makes matters even worse. The best way to avoid any health complications is to make sure to keep your marchers well hydrated with water (not soda!!). Also try and schedule your outdoor marching rehearsals in the evenings or early morning to avoid the onslaught of the midday sun. However, sometimes it is just plain hot out no matter what the time is and you should definitely keep an eye out for heat related health issues.

uTutti | The Web Based Music Teacher's Office May 19, 2009

If you're one of the many music teachers beginning to realize the tremendous affect that emerging technology can have on your program, you'll be excited to know about a new web based administration tool built specifically for music teachers. uTutti.com, created by director/composer Alex Yoder, is an online program that allows music teachers to manage student information, grades, inventory, finances, fees, fundraisers, parent communication, events, email, and more from one easy to use system.

Music For All Summer Symposium Mar 25, 2009

The Music for All Summer Symposium is a positively life-changing experience for students and directors. There's nothing else like it! Dynamic Marching has assembled an outstanding faculty and staff for the marching band track whose abilities to teach, inspire and motivate are unmatched. Students will grow as musicians and performers while learning leadership and life skills.

Leadership - "The more you GIVE- The more you GET" Mar 19, 2009

How important is a good leadership group for the success of your band program? Vital. Immeasurable! A strong class of students who really know how to lead by example and get things done without issues, bickering, and butting heads is a rare gem and can make or break your program. How do you train young students to be great leaders? Don't ask me! Ask these two men, who are both personal heroes of mine - Dr. Tim and Scott Lang. This "article" is really just an introduction for those of you who haven't had the pleasure of hearing one of these great men speak. Read on and find out more about Tim and Scott.