It is my pleasure to interview the fabulous Dr. Ray Cramer in this episode. Dr. Cramer has inspired so many of us and has devoted a lifetime to music service. He is 81 years old!

His best advice for young directors is to be patient, accept students where they are while helping them to get better, be creative, and use your time wisely. Believe it or not, he almost didn't continue in band. "Dr. Zimmerman changed my life."

Dr. Cramer also says that "Life isn't always tied with a bow, but it is a gift."

Has the show benefited you? Would you consider a one time donation of any amount through Paypal (jamesthedivine@gmail.com)?

Check out Music, Instruments and Science which includes 8+ lessons that are great for use on sub or distance learning days.

Why don’t they teach that in school?! Check out Adulting 101.

Need a speaker for your event? Need leadership training for your students? I’d love to talk.

Have a question for the podcast? jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. 

Multitude of links and resources here

Do you have trouble getting a good sound from your saxes? In this episode I share 4 tips - and real life bad and good examples - to help your saxes sound much better with a more focused sound. Sometimes an adaptation in the amount of mouthpiece a student takes, or even the strength of a reed, can make a huge difference.

Has the show benefited you? Would you consider a one time donation of any amount through Paypal (jamesthedivine@gmail.com)?

Check out Music, Instruments and Science which includes 8+ lessons that are great for use on sub or distance learning days.

Why don’t they teach that in school?! Check out Adulting 101.

Need a speaker for your event? Need leadership training for your students? I’d love to talk.

Have a question for the podcast? jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. 

Multitude of links and resources here

In this episode, I have the privilege of interviewing Dr. Menghini of VanderCook College of Music. We talk about engaging students in the rehearsal process.

Do we teach our students, train them, or tell them? There's an important distinction. Do they know what to do? Do you ask them a lot of questions? Hint: You should. That's what teaching is really all about. Let THEM do the work, the thinking, the problem solving.

Get in touch with Dr. Menghini at bandtalkcharlie@gmail.com. And subscribe to his podcast on iTunes.

Has the show benefited you? Would you consider a one time donation of any amount through Paypal (jamesthedivine@gmail.com)?

Check out Music, Instruments and Science which includes 8+ lessons that are great for use on sub or distance learning days.

Why don’t they teach that in school?! Check out Adulting 101.

Need a speaker for your event? Need leadership training for your students? I’d love to talk.

Have a question for the podcast? jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. 

Multitude of links and resources here