In this enlightening episode, Steve and Alan talk with veteran music educator Mary Cogswell. She shares transformative insights into music education that transcend ensemble size and experience level. Join us as we explore innovative strategies for incorporating creativity, diversity, and meaningful musical experiences into band programs. From finding diverse repertoire to introducing composition techniques and addressing creative standards, Mary offers practical, actionable advice that will inspire educators across all musical disciplines. Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced ensembles, this conversation provides fresh perspectives on engaging students and expanding musical horizons.
Links:
- Mary Cogswell’s Website
- Beginning Band Adaptable Series co-editor
- ArtsEd Alliance SD
- Groove Pizza
- Chrome Music Lab
- Rhythm Randomizer
- CreaTUNEity
About Mary Cogswell
Following a 33-year teaching career, Mary Cogswell continues to serve the music education profession as an active guest conductor, clinician, mentor and music co-editor. She is currently serving as Chair of ArtsEd Alliance SD. Her past service includes President of the South Dakota Bandmasters Association, Phi Beta Mu Sigma Chapter, and Music Chair for the SDHSAA All-State Band.
Mary is co-editor of the Beginning Band Adaptable Series published by Murphy Music Press, which emphasizes flex arrangements designed around a rubric specifically tailored for beginning bands. She is a passionate advocate for quality music education and has delivered numerous presentations focused on recruitment strategies and effective instruction for beginning band students. Her expertise has led to multiple invitations to speak on national band education podcasts.
Her conducting experience includes leading the 2018 South Dakota Middle School Festival All-State Band, as well as numerous regional honor bands and summer band camps. Mary’s contributions have been recognized with several honors, including being named one of School Band and Orchestra Magazine’s “50 Directors Who Make a Difference” in 2019, receiving the Phi Beta Mu Sigma Chapter Distinguished Service Award in 2020, and being honored as the 2021 Phi Beta Mu Sigma Chapter Outstanding Bandmaster.