In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, we sit down with Darin Graber, Director of Bands at Bingham High School, to discuss his remarkable career in music education and the evolution of one of Utah's most respected marching band programs.

Darin shares his journey from growing up in Kansas and performing in a family band to becoming a longtime educator in Utah's Jordan School District. Along the way, he reflects on the experiences that shaped his teaching philosophy, his passion for jazz, and why he chose high school music education over a college career.

The conversation explores the growth of Bingham's marching band program—from a 41-member ensemble struggling for recognition to a competitive program with state championships, national travel opportunities, and a strong culture of student leadership. Darin also offers candid insights into the challenges facing modern marching bands, including competition classifications, rising program costs, student participation, and the increasing influence of Drum Corps International on high school marching arts.

Whether you're a band director, student, parent, or marching arts enthusiast, this episode provides a thoughtful look at leadership, program building, and the life lessons that make music education so impactful.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/1jm9fxr6gzI

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, creative director Jessica Glasgow shares her journey from a young baton twirler in Colorado to becoming one of the most influential designers in the marching arts today. Jessica discusses her early experiences in music, color guard, drum corps, and Winter Guard International, as well as the mentors and opportunities that shaped her career.

The conversation dives deep into the art and science of show design, exploring how ideas become productions, how designers balance creativity with competitive requirements, and why collaboration is essential to creating memorable performances. Jessica also reflects on her time at American Fork, the evolution of Utah’s marching arts scene, lessons learned from marching world-class winter guard as an adult, and the importance of continuously seeking growth as an artist.

Whether you're a student, educator, designer, performer, or marching arts fan, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process that brings marching band and drum corps productions to life.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/ijgFXqQBoKM

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, Ethan Johnson takes us behind the scenes of one of the most technical parts of modern marching band: audio engineering. Ethan shares how he went from discovering marching band at Westlake High School to becoming an audio engineer for high school programs, DCI, and professional marching arts productions.

The conversation explores how marching band audio actually works, including microphones, speakers, mixers, wireless systems, front ensemble amplification, and the design decisions that shape how a production sounds in a stadium. Ethan also discusses the differences between high school and DCI audio and the lessons he learned from experienced engineers.

Ethan also discusses music licensing and copyright, explaining some of the challenges programs face when recording and sharing performances online. He closes with advice for students interested in audio engineering and discusses his company, Dragon Scale Audio, which provides audio design, installation, consultation, and recording services for the marching arts.

This is an inside look at the technology, creativity, and technical expertise that help bring modern marching band productions to life.

Contact Ethan directly if you are interested in his services:

Email: dragonscaleaudio@gmail.com

Instagram: @dragonscaleaudio

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/CaM_QBrJpW0

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, legendary music educator Dr. Don Peterson joins the show to reflect on a career that has shaped generations of musicians and band directors throughout Utah and beyond. From his early years at American Fork High School to a 35-year tenure at BYU, Dr. Peterson shares the story of how he helped build some of the most influential marching and concert band programs in the region while inspiring thousands of students along the way.

The conversation explores the early evolution of marching band in Utah, including the growth of the American Fork program, the development of the Cougar Marching Band, and the dramatic changes that have transformed the activity over the past five decades. Dr. Peterson offers a unique historical perspective on show design, traditions, uniforms, props, college marching bands, and the increasing production demands facing modern programs.

Dr. Peterson also reflects on the challenges and rewards of directing one of the nation's largest collegiate marching bands, sharing stories from football games, bowl trips, Disneyland performances, international travel, and the behind-the-scenes realities of leading a program that became a defining part of BYU's identity. He discusses the relationships that mattered most, the lessons he learned as an educator, and the importance of keeping students at the center of every decision.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Peterson speaks candidly about legacy, mentorship, and the profound joy that comes from watching former students become successful educators, leaders, professionals, and community builders. His perspective offers a powerful reminder that the true impact of a teacher is measured not by trophies or accolades, but by the lives they help shape.

This is a fascinating conversation about the history of Utah's marching arts, the evolution of music education, and the enduring influence of one of the state's most respected band directors.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/SBjJvbCItwg

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, retired Utah band director Paul Lemen reflects on a distinguished 31-year career in music education and his lasting impact on generations of students. From launching Orem High School's marching band program in the 1990s to leading successful ensembles at Willow Creek Middle School and Vista Heights Middle School, Paul shares the story of how a reluctant beginning band student became one of Utah's most respected music educators.

The conversation explores Paul's early experiences growing up in Indiana, his introduction to music through his family, and the unique marching band traditions that shaped his understanding of the activity. He reflects on the evolution of marching arts over the decades, discussing how changes in technology, show design, judging, and access to educational resources have transformed the student experience and raised the level of performance across the country.

Paul also offers valuable insight into building successful programs, developing young musicians, and balancing educational priorities with competitive goals. Drawing on decades of experience as a teacher, adjudicator, festival organizer, and music education leader, he discusses the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for students while maintaining a long-term vision for program growth and excellence.

Throughout the episode, Paul shares thoughtful observations about leadership, mentorship, and the enduring value of music education. His perspective provides a fascinating look at how the marching arts have evolved while highlighting the timeless principles that continue to make band such a transformative experience for students.

This is an engaging conversation about music education, program building, the history of marching band, and the lasting legacy of a career spent serving young musicians.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/Im1sx9SefeM

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, we sit down with Shianne Ogzewalla, Director of Bands at West Jordan High School, to explore her journey from a young flute player and marching band student to leading the program she once performed in.

Shianne shares how marching band changed the direction of her life and the challenges she faced while earning her music education degree at Southern Utah University. She also discusses her first teaching experiences, the transition from staff member to head director at West Jordan, and the lessons she has learned about teaching students across different instruments and experience levels.

Shianne talks about building a program centered on community, resilience, authenticity, and the philosophy of “One Band, One Sound, One Family.” She explains how the program has worked to create a supportive environment where students can be themselves, learn from failure, and continue pushing forward, even when competitive results don't always reflect the quality of their performance.

The episode also features West Jordan student Max Robinson, who discusses their experiences on bass drum, their role as the band's hype head, the importance of community, and why they believe marching band is something everyone should try.

Shianne also gives an inside look at West Jordan’s 2026 production, Among the Stars, including its music, visual design, original composition, props, and the creative process behind bringing the show to life. From arranging music in-house to balancing creativity with competitive expectations, she shares the realities of designing and evolving a marching band production throughout the season.

This episode is a conversation about mentorship, perseverance, student relationships, healthy competition, and creating a place where young people can grow both as musicians and as human beings.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/kyj3sKyXULM

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, Orem High School Director of Bands Curtis Winters joins the show to share the experiences, mentors, and life lessons that shaped his decades-long career in music education.

Curtis reflects on growing up in Arizona, discovering his passion for marching band, performing as a drum major at BYU, and spending 25 years teaching band and orchestra at Orem Junior High before transitioning to Orem High School.

The conversation explores Curtis's philosophy of teaching beginners, building lasting relationships with students, and creating a culture where every young musician feels valued and connected.

He discusses the importance of collaboration within a school community, working alongside coaches and other educators, and helping band students feel like an essential part of school life rather than an isolated group within the music department.

Curtis also offers a thoughtful perspective on the current state of marching band in Utah, examining how the activity has evolved over the years, the challenges facing smaller and developing programs, and the opportunities that exist to make marching arts more accessible throughout the state.

Drawing on decades of experience, he shares insights into program growth, leadership, recruitment, and the importance of creating pathways for new programs to succeed. Throughout the episode, Curtis's passion for students, music education, and the future of the marching arts shines through.

This is an engaging conversation about leadership, program development, community building, and the lasting impact a dedicated educator can have on generations of young musicians.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYoNP5MH0bI

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.

In this episode of the Marching Arts Utah Podcast, West Field High School Director of Bands Joe Windsor shares an extraordinary journey that spans music, military service, education, and more than three decades of teaching. Joe reflects on growing up in a musical family in Arizona, serving as an Air Force bomb disposal technician, returning to complete his music education, and ultimately building a long and impactful career in Utah's public schools. Along the way, he discusses the mentors, experiences, and lessons that shaped his philosophy as both an educator and leader.

The conversation explores Joe's years at Weber High School, where he helped grow and strengthen the band program while navigating the challenges of recruitment, changing school demographics, and evolving competitive landscapes. He shares stories from the early days of his career, the importance of creating opportunities for students of all backgrounds, and his belief that music education is ultimately about helping young people become well-rounded, successful adults.

Joe also discusses his transition to West Field High School, where he joined the founding faculty and helped establish a brand-new music program from the ground up. He offers insight into the excitement and challenges of building culture in a new school, creating a vision for the future, and finding renewed energy late in his career through a fresh opportunity and a new environment.

The episode also dives into the creation of the Mountain Star Marching Band, a unique collaborative program that brings together students and educators from multiple schools to create opportunities that would not otherwise exist. Joe explains how the idea developed, the challenges of making it a reality, and the impact it has had on students, staff, and the marching arts community in Northern Utah.

This is a thoughtful conversation about service, leadership, innovation, and the lasting influence that dedicated educators can have on generations of students.

We film all of our podcasts. Please subscribe to us on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchingArtsUtah

Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/UZ5lE6vjcsM

Disclaimer: This platform is fundamentally opposed to the use of generative AI, especially in the general field of human performing arts, and we are dedicated to producing 100% human-created content at all times.