The high school band director is the most visible member of a local music education community. Responsible for running a marching band program in the fall and concert band in the spring, the typical high school band director is an exceptionally busy teacher who can count on being out of the house approximately 100 nights per year. Music education has more full-time jobs than any other in the professional music business. The position of band director demands intense dedication, a wide variety of professional and interpersonal skills, and the willingness to spend the hottest days of summer in grueling marching band camps. The type of person who can succeed as a band director is one who lives for students' breakthrough moments and for the emotional payoff of a successful concert performance or football halftime show.
Instructions
1. Master at least one musical instrument. Every band director should be able to perform at a professional level on one instrument. High-quality private instrumental teachers can be found by talking to local professional musicians, who are usually generous with their time in giving advice to aspiring professionals. Study with a private teacher beginning in middle school and continue with one-hour weekly lessons through high school. Look for and purchase a quality instrument in consultation with the private teacher.
2. Seek out performance opportunities in high school and any other conceivable venue. Look for mentors among professional educators and performers who can often point the way toward performance opportunities outside the high school. Investigate opportunities in all-city or all-state bands, local youth symphonies or regional summer festivals. Look for beginning conducting opportunities with any ensemble, no matter how humble. Take every opportunity to learn to play additional instruments, even at a beginning level.
3. Gain acceptance to an accredited music school at a college or university. Consult with the private teacher and the school band director to obtain letters of recommendation. Ask them for guidance on the audition and application standards for music departments. Research scholarships or other financial aid that might be available at the schools under consideration. Narrow schools down to a short list, and apply and audition for entrance as a student. If multiple acceptances and financial aid offers come in, ask the private teacher, band director and other mentors for assistance in making the right decision.
4. Pursue and complete a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education. Embrace every aspect of the music-school life. Never again will the opportunity come to be surrounded by such a peer group of like-minded aspiring performers and educators. Make connections, find new mentors and collect professional references. Use methods classes to gain a wide-spectrum understanding of all of the band instruments as well as the voice. Follow the advice of music education faculty members and complete all requirements for state music teacher certification. Consider joining appropriate music fraternities or sororities, as well as honor societies.
5. Search listings for band director jobs upon graduation. Create an application portfolio, apply and go to interviews. Rely on peers, mentors and senior teachers for guidance during the challenging first years of employment, when every experience is new and difficult.
