In Volume 2 of this multi-part conversation, Copper State Marching Podcast host Martin Hebda welcomes back Travis Larson to continue exploring how to educate, mentor, and develop effective marching arts instructors.

This episode focuses on practical rehearsal strategies, professional boundaries, and the leadership skills needed to help students succeed. Martin and Travis discuss the power of repetition, encouraging students to learn through experience, and prioritizing meaningful feedback over constant corrections. They also emphasize the importance of following program communication policies, maintaining appropriate boundaries with students, and modeling professionalism at all times.

The conversation explores what it means to lead students through positive relationships, clear communication, consistent expectations, and an understanding of why things matter. From modeling rehearsal etiquette to recognizing individual student needs, Travis shares insights on building trust, motivating young musicians, and creating a positive, growth-oriented learning environment. Whether you're a band director, instructor, or emerging educator, this episode offers actionable ideas for strengthening your teaching, developing student leaders, and making a lasting positive impact on young musicians.

Stay tuned for Volume 3 of this important conversation!

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

As marching band season comes to a close, Martin Hebda and Matt Kozacek are looking ahead to one of the biggest events of the year: AZMBA Marching Band Championships!

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, sponsored by the Arizona Marching Band Association (AZMBA), Martin and Matt discuss what makes championship day such a special experience for students, directors, families, and supporters across Arizona. They preview this year’s championship venues at Pinnacle High School, Campo Verde High School, and Millennium High School, highlighting the efforts to create an outstanding and equitable experience for every performing band. They also explore the special traditions that make championships memorable, including caption awards featuring prizes bands can use in their programs, the excitement of full retreat, and the return of student scholarships. The hosts also discuss the Individual and Ensemble (I&E) Showcase, the opportunity for outstanding student performers to take the field under the lights, and the spectacular fireworks finale that makes championship night unforgettable. Along the way, Martin and Matt share personal stories, reflect on the importance of sportsmanship and celebrating fellow performers, and even revisit the unforgettable year a swarm of bees interrupted a marching band competition!

With the season winding down, the message is simple: celebrate the journey, appreciate the hard work, support one another, and make the most of every moment.

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

What does it take to build great performers, future educators, and leaders through the marching arts? In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, host Martin Hebda sits down with Josh Thye, Executive Director of the Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts, for an in-depth conversation about the Academy’s history, mission, and exciting opportunities for the 2027 season.

Josh shares his personal journey from the Academy’s early days in 2001 to leading the organization today, reflecting on founder Mark Richardson’s vision of “creating great people through great performances.” Together, Martin and Josh explore how the Academy develops discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the marching field.

Whether you’re a student considering drum corps for the first time, a band director looking for resources, a parent supporting a young performer, or a longtime fan of the activity, this conversation offers an inside look at what makes the Academy special.

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