What Is a Leader's Real Job? Building People, Not Just Performances

In this episode of Sounds Good by ChoirMate, Dr. Jaclyn Normandie speaks with Dr. Deb Confredo, past president of the National Association for Music Education, professor at Temple University, and a 44-year veteran music educator. They explore a truth that lives at the heart of every ensemble: a leader's real job transcends the notes on the page. Together they discuss building culture and community, the shift from "mine" to "ours" that lets an ensemble survive a change in leadership, and why deep preparation is what frees a conductor to listen, create, and connect. From a hair-raising story of being asked to conduct a concert with three days' notice to the quiet power of sharing joy, this conversation offers guidance for anyone who leads people, whether on a podium, in a classroom, in a boardroom, or at home. About Dr. Deborah A. Confredo: Dr. Deborah A. Confredo is Professor of Music Education and Director of Online Graduate Studies at Temple University's Boyer College of Music and Dance, and a 44-year veteran music educator. She served as National President of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) from 2024 to 2026. She is the founder of Temple's Night Owls Campus/Community Band, which launched the university's community music outreach program, and is a past conductor of the Philadelphia All-City High School Band. A past Chair of the NAfME Society for Research in Music Education and of the Music Teacher Profession Initiative, she co-authored A Blueprint for Strengthening the Music Teacher Profession. She is also lead author of the band method Measures of Success (FJH Music) and co-author of The Complete Woodwind Instructor. She has taught at the elementary and secondary levels and is in constant demand as a clinician, adjudicator, guest conductor, and lecturer across the nation. She resides in Louisiana, where she is active in the Louisiana Music Educators Association. Contact Dr. Deb Confredo: [email protected] Any thoughts? Contact us: [email protected]