In Volume 1 of this multi-part conversation, Copper State Marching Podcast host Martin Hebda welcomes back Travis Larson to discuss one of the most important challenges in marching arts education: how to effectively educate, mentor, and guide young instructional staff members.

Together, Martin and Travis explore the essential skills new staff members need to develop, from understanding their role within a program and building relationships with students to diagnosing problems, communicating effectively, and delivering meaningful feedback.

This episode dives into practical strategies for helping young educators become more confident, prepared, and effective on the field. Topics include understanding student motivation, learning a program’s history and traditions, prioritizing feedback, celebrating incremental progress, asking the right questions, and focusing on solutions rather than simply pointing out mistakes. They also discuss the importance of staff communication, knowing when to seek guidance, and recognizing that success looks different for every student and program.

Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, host Martin Hebda is joined by experienced educators and adjudicators Scott Montoya and Mark Hodge for a practical conversation about navigating mid-season show changes.

Together, they discuss how to evaluate judges’ comments, identify recurring themes across multiple critiques, and prioritize adjustments that will make the biggest impact without overwhelming students or staff. From recognizing structural issues and improving musical and visual achievement to deciding when it’s too late for major changes, this episode offers valuable insight for programs of every size.

You’ll also hear strategies for organizing feedback, using judges’ recordings and performance videos to guide rehearsals, communicating changes positively to students, and making the most of limited rehearsal time. Whether you lead a large program with an experienced staff or a small band where one director wears every hat, the conversation emphasizes thoughtful planning, realistic goals, and continuous improvement.

Thank you to the Arizona Marching Band Association and our sponsors for supporting music education and marching arts across Arizona!

Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org

What does it take to start a Winter Guard, Indoor Percussion, or Indoor Winds program at your school. Is now the right time to take the plunge?

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, host Martin Hebda sits down with Steven Goodman, WGAZ Vice President, and Beth Carlson, WGAZ Color Guard Liaison, for an in-depth conversation about the indoor pageantry arts in Arizona. They discuss the benefits of adding an indoor program, including student recruitment and retention, skill development, performance opportunities, and creating additional pathways for students to find their place within a school community. They also tackle the practical side of getting started. Steven and Beth also share practical advice from their own experiences, emphasizing that a new program doesn't need to start with a huge budget, a complete production, or all the bells and whistles. Sometimes the best first step is simply giving students an opportunity to perform, building interest, and growing from there.

Whether you're a band director considering your first indoor ensemble, an established program looking to expand, or a student or educator curious about the Winter Guard, Indoor Percussion, and Indoor Winds activities, this episode offers plenty of ideas and encouragement to help you take that next step. Don't be afraid to ask questions, start small, and build your program one step at a time!

Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org