Alan and Steve talk with Kyle Smith of The Growing Band Director podcast about continuous learning.
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A graduate of South Portland High School, Kyle has been the Director of Bands at Westbrook High School in Westbrook, Maine since 2006. Prior to is appointment at Westbrook High School he was the Band Director at Biddeford High School. Mr. Smith received his Bachelors of Music in Music Education degree, by scholarship for musical excellence, from the University of New Hampshire. He earned a graduate degree scholarship and teaching assistantship for his masters degree in Music Education with a concentration in conducting from the university, studying under Dr. Andrew Boysen Jr. , Dr. William Kempster, and Dr. Thomas Keck. Mr. Smith is the past Vice President of the Maine Band Directors Association, as well as the Instrumental Jazz Chair for the Maine Music Educators Association. He serves as a manager for jazz bands and concert bands for MMEA at the district and state levels.While at the University of New Hampshire, Mr. Smith was a member of the Wind Symphony, performing under composer Dr. Andrew Boysen Jr., as well as composer and guest conductor Timothy Mahr. He was also a member of the Jazz Ensemble, and had the opportunity to perform with Clark Terry, Jeff Hamilton, John Clayton, and Benny Green in addition to many other professional jazz musicians. Mr. Smith was also an active staff member of the Summer Youth Music School (SYMS), conducting high school concert and jazz bands.
Mr Smith serves as the manager for Maine Music Educators at the All State Festival, All State Jazz Festival, District One Concert Band Festival and District One Jazz Band Festival. He also hosts a weekly podcast called “The Growing Band Director Podcast.”
Kyle lives in Westbrook with his wife Krystle, Director of Bands at Westbrook Middle School, his daughter Addison and son Jack.