In this episode, David speaks with Eric Songer, Music Educator in Chaska, MN!

Join David Duarte as he discusses the methods, challenges, and benefits of building a positive culture within the classroom. Hear different perspectives from music educators of all backgrounds, and learn how they build a culture of intrinsic motivation, collaboration, and growth within their own ensembles.

Watch this episode with video: https://youtube.com/live/9-3cy58wDzQ?feature=share

This special episode is the last of a 4-part series of podcasts recorded on-site in June 2026 at the Sweetwater Director Academy at the Bands of America Summer Camp, presented by Yamaha.

In this episode, David speaks with three people who speak to the wonderful culture, past, present, and future, of the Bands of America Summer Camp: Jeff Young, Former Director of Camps at Music for All; Brandon Dittgen, Band Director at Milford Exempted Village Schools; and Kelsey Synnett, Director of Student Programs at Music for All. Listen in as they discuss why programs like the Sweetwater Director Academy, along with the student tracks at camp, are a worthwhile way for band directors and students to spend a week of their summer!

Join David Duarte each week as he discusses the methods, challenges, and benefits of building a positive culture within the classroom. Hear different perspectives from music educators of all backgrounds, and learn how they build a culture of intrinsic motivation, collaboration, and growth within their own ensembles.

Please join us back for regularly scheduled Sunday evening LIVE episodes, beginning this coming Sunday, August 9!

Watch this episode with video: https://youtu.be/IbDSKYl6ttg

This special episode is the third of a 4-part series of podcasts recorded on-site in June 2026 at the Sweetwater Director Academy at the Bands of America Summer Camp, presented by Yamaha.

In this episode, David speaks with Kevin Sucher, Director of Bands at Taylor H.S., OH; and Jonathan Schnicke, Director of Bands at Kent City H.S. and M.S., MI. Listen in as they discuss finding balance in their careers, keeping their programs relationship-centric, and encouraging students to be lifelong musicians.

Join David Duarte each week as he discusses the methods, challenges, and benefits of building a positive culture within the classroom. Hear different perspectives from music educators of all backgrounds, and learn how they build a culture of intrinsic motivation, collaboration, and growth within their own ensembles.

Please join us back for regularly scheduled Sunday evening LIVE episodes, beginning this coming Sunday, August 9!

Watch this episode with video: https://youtu.be/DKQMx9dswhY