Bandstand S2E11: David England and the Blackman Middle Percussion Ensemble at PASIC

Summary In this episode of Bandstand, host David Aydelott engages with David England, a music educator at Blackman Middle School, to discuss the evolution of the band program, the significance of diverse musical backgrounds, and the journey to perform at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC). They explore the challenges and triumphs of music education, the importance of exposing students to various musical genres, and the collaborative efforts that contribute to a successful band program. In this conversation, David discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching percussion to students with varying experience levels. He emphasizes the importance of customizing education to meet individual needs, teaching fundamental skills, and fostering student independence. David advises young band directors, highlighting the significance of lifelong learning and community engagement in music education. Keywords Tennessee bands, music education, percussion ensemble, PASIC, Blackman Middle School, David England, band program, music history, diversity in music, teaching music, education, percussion, teaching methods, PASIC, music education, student engagement, band directors, performance, fundamentals, career growth Takeaways David England's journey in music began in elementary school. Diverse musical backgrounds enhance creativity in writing and teaching. Blackman Middle School has a large and diverse band program. Collaboration with administration is key to program success. PASIC offers a platform for middle school ensembles to shine. Selecting an engaging and educational repertoire is crucial for performances. The application process for PASIC requires careful planning and documentation. Building connections with other educators fosters growth and learning. Customized education is essential for diverse learners. Teaching fundamentals is crucial for student development. Encouraging independence in students fosters growth. Experiencing large conventions like PASIC can be overwhelming yet rewarding for young musicians. Career transitions can lead to new opportunities for growth and exploration. Lifelong learning is vital for educators in music. Engaging students with various music styles enhances their interest. Community involvement is important for music programs. Balancing teaching and performance expectations is challenging but necessary. Utilizing available resources greatly benefits young band directors. [email protected]