This episode of The Heart of Teaching Music features Jason Fettig, Director of Bands at the University of Michigan and Former Director of "The President's Own” U.S. Marine Band. Jason recounts his journey to the Marine Corps and his recent transition from directing the Marine Band into academia at the University of Michigan. They also chat about the importance of empathy in teaching, finding community in music, and how impostor syndrome can creep up in anyone and everyone.

Without people, there is no music. Join hosts Julia Baumanis and Scott Edgar as they explore the heart of teaching music. Each week, they sit down with inspiring leaders in music and music education to share stories of identity, belonging, and making a difference through music.

Together, they uncover how music education nurtures growth—not just musically, but socially and emotionally. With engaging conversations, diverse voices, and opportunities for listeners to ask questions, this podcast invites music educators to embrace life-skill development and discover the power of Music for ALL.

This episode is sponsored by GIA Publications. Learn more about GIA’s music education offerings, including Julia and Scott’s personal favorites, here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠giamusic.com/hotm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Plus, check out a chapter written by Jason in Rehearsing the Band, Volume 4.