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Tune in for a masterclass in mastering, mountain climbing, and music making. Buzz’s stories take you from Devil’s Tower to small-town pharmacy to collaborating with Yo-Yo Ma. So whether you’re a budding sound god, a mountain enthusiast, or just someone who loves hilarious stories from someone who’s done it all—this episode will leave you inspired, amused, and maybe a little more willing to climb those metaphorical—and literal—mountains yourself.

Learn More About Buzz Here:

https://buzzkemper.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buzzkemper/

Credits:

Enchantment by Jodie Blackshaw. Performed by the Hobart Wind Symphony conducted by Simon Reade. https://youtu.be/3e8OrSg8h6M?si=jojRar36SnWf0Spt

Badger Talks with Buzz Kemper. https://youtu.be/YRC--RZI4ac?si=NydNVIhnwbHPJV0r

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2027 BEYOND THE NOTE FESTIVALS

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/festivals/ensembles/kalahari-1

BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

FREE MUSIC:

Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”)

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Will Chris find a way to expand Beyond the Notes to include kazoo choirs? Will Peter make it through the entire podcast on 1 hour of sleep? Will Phil win an award for longest question ever? All of these questions will be answered - sadly testing the patience of our exasperated commuters. Oh well. The Buzzler and Bandboozler shall provide a short moment of sanity. Our guest has taught successfully in high schools and colleges throughout the country and is now director of bands at Florida State University. He is a great advocate for students, a renowned conductor, board member of the Midwest Clinic and an all around wonderful person! Rodney Dorsey is simply the best.

Show Links

U.S. Marine Band forced to cancel concert with students of color after Trump DEI order. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/lhwS06U1SnA?si=z5RutPTfPy-tKzoM

REGISTER NOW:

2027 BEYOND THE NOTES MUSIC FESTIVAL REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 9 AT 8:00 PM

Learn more at: https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/

BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

FREE MUSIC:

Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”)

https://dp

Support the show

Send a text

In this episode of Beyond Artless, we welcome Dr. Sarah McKoin, educator, conductor, and scholar at Texas Tech University, for a conversation that blends musicianship, mentorship, and corndogs.

Dr. McKoin shares her path into higher education and conducting, reflecting on the moments and mentors that shaped her voice as a teacher and musician. From leading ensembles to preparing future musicians, she speaks candidly about the responsibility—and joy—of guiding students toward artistry, confidence, and curiosity.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Dr. McKoin’s journey to Texas Tech and the collegiate podium
• The role of mentorship in shaping meaningful musical careers
• Building ensemble culture rooted in trust and excellence
• Balancing artistry, scholarship, and leadership
• How to meet famous musicians while eating corndogs
• How to make a great free-throw under pressure!

This conversation is thoughtful, grounded, and deeply encouraging—reminding us that great teaching is as much about listening and learning as it is about leading.

CREDITS:

DAHL Sinfonietta: Introduction and Rondo - "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xo2nBmPQXPo

Hindemith's Symphony in B-flat | The U.S. Army Band https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpgXXcAcNQ4

Inland Ocean - Viet Cuong (for Grade 2.5 Concert Band) Reading by the West Chester University Wind Ensemble, Dr. Andrew Yozviak, conductor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaB6dSEtS8A

Patiala Pulse by Shruthi Rajasekar. Concert band Grade 4 Murphy Music Presshttps://murphymusicpress.com/products/cb3-1,045

OPENING SOON:

2027 BEYOND THE NOTES MUSIC FESTIVAL REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 9 AT 8:00 PM. Learn more at: https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/

REGISTER NOW:

BUILDING BETTER BANDS DAY (MAY 23):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

RISING MUSIC EDUCATOR PROGRAM (MAY 22):

https://www.btnmusicfestival.com/education

FREE MUSIC:

Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (Marie Douglas “Yellow Birds”)

https://dp

Support the show