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Copper State Marching Podcast: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Martin Hebda and Aaron Vogel
Welcome to the Copper State Marching Podcast! Join us as we dive deep into the vibrant world of marching bands across Arizona and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a proud parent, or simply a fan of the art form, our podcast is your go-to source for all things marching. Each episode features engaging interviews with talented band directors, passionate students, and industry experts who share their insights, experiences, and tips for success. We’ll explore the latest trends, discuss the challenges faced by marching bands, and celebrate the incredible talent found in our Copper State. From competition highlights to behind-the-scenes stories, we aim to inspire and connect the marching band community. So grab your instruments, tune in, and let’s march together into the exciting world of music and performance. This podcast would not be possible without the cooperation of the Arizona Marching Band Association. Thank you AzMBA Board and partnerships!
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- 1 weeks ago33 min
Season 4 Wrap-up
Join hosts Martin Hebda, Aaron Vogel, Matt Kozacek, and Dan Hoffman as they look back on Season 4 of the Copper State Marching Podcast. The team reflects on memorable conversations, key takeaways, and the growth of the podcast over the past season. They also share a preview of discussion topics planned for Season 5 and discuss Elevate, including its impact and future opportunities for the marching arts community. Whether you've been listening since the beginning or are just discovering the podcast, this episode offers an inside look at where the show has been and where it's headed next.
- 2 weeks ago47 min
Electronics and Sound Design Part 2, The Next Step
In Part 2 of our Electronics & Sound Design series, the Copper State Marching Podcast dives deeper into the world of marching arts audio production with guests Zach Whittier and Claire Thorpe-Coody, two of Arizona’s leading voices in sound design and front ensemble electronics. From microphone placement and front ensemble amplification to narration production, synth programming, MainStage troubleshooting, and wireless microphone setups, this episode is packed with practical advice for students, educators, and designers alike. The conversation explores how both guests learned electronics “by necessity,” proving that anyone with curiosity and a willingness to experiment can grow into a successful sound designer. Listeners will hear detailed discussions on mic placement for marimbas and vibraphones, how to reduce frame noise using simple suspension systems, and why mallet bags are more important than most people realize. Zach and Claire also break down the process of creating narration tracks and sound effects for marching band shows, including sourcing sounds from sites like freesound.org, recording custom Foley-style effects, and editing audio in Logic Pro, GarageBand, and Audacity. The episode also covers synth programming, risers, bass drops, sample playback, and the pros and cons of software like MainStage versus Ableton. Additionally, the panel discusses troubleshooting common electronics failures at competitions, maintaining stable signal chains, using MIDI over USB when possible, and why teaching students to manage their own equipment is essential. The episode closes with advice on wireless microphones, speaker purchasing, compression techniques for soloists, and shout-outs to the many educators and designers helping grow Arizona’s marching arts audio community. Whether you’re just beginning with electronics or looking to level up your program’s sound design, this episode offers an incredible amount of practical insight and inspiration. Sponsored by the Arizona Marching Band Association (AZMBA). You can reach the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org. Resources and sites discussed in Part 1 or Part 2: Marching Arts Audio Discussion Page on Facebook Mic Suggestions Shure SM57 Digital Auto Workstation Mainstage Logic Pro Ableton Hardware Sampl Roland Sample Pad, SP40, 404MK2 Sounds/narration/effects Freesound.org Fiverr.com - sound actor resource Voice123.com Foley tutorials on youtube Kontakt (plugin) Sound cart/speaker design Titan Pagentry Pyle Synced Up (builds full sound system) Other pinecil soldering iron Shure Education Material
- 3 weeks ago34 min
Electronics and Sound Design Part 1, The First Steps
In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Matt Kozacek dive into one of the most intimidating, but essential, parts of modern marching arts. Electronics and sound design. From spinning wheels of death and sample mishaps on championships day to practical advice for building a reliable sound setup, this conversation is packed with real world experiences and actionable tips for directors at every level. Joining the podcast are sound design and audio specialists Zack Whittier and Claire Thorpe-Coody, who share their journeys into the world of marching audio and break down the basics of getting started with electronics. Whether your program only has only a synth and a guitar amp or you’re exploring digital mixers and advanced mic setups, this episode covers foundational strategies, affordable equipment recommendations, troubleshooting advice, cable management, mixer options, and the importance of asking for help. Listeners will also hear discussion about: - Beginner-friendly ways to introduce electronics into a marching program - Recommended microphones, mixers, and sample pads - Using iPads and apps for triggering samples - Analog vs. digital mixers - Daisy chaining, stage boxes, and cable management - Online communities and resources for learning marching audio - Common electronic failures — and how to avoid them This is Part 1 of a two-part deep dive into electronics and sound design in the marching arts. Whether you're brand new to amplification or looking to improve your current setup, this episode offers practical guidance, relatable stories, and expert insight for every band director and sound tech. Whether you’re a band director, student leader, staff member, or marching arts educator, this episode is packed with real-world leadership advice, rehearsal strategies, and thoughtful conversation about building stronger programs and stronger people. To send in your own band dilemmas or questions, email the podcast team at podcast@azmba.org. Resources and sites discussed in Part 1 or Part 2: Marching Arts Audion Discussion Page on Facebook Mic Suggestions Shure SM57 Digital Auto Workstation Mainstage Logic Pro Ableton Hardware Sampl Roland Sample Pad, SP40, 404MK2 Sounds/narration/effects Freesound.org Fiverr.com - sound actor resource Voice123.com Foley tutorials on youtube Kontakt (plugin) Sound cart/speaker design Titan Pagentry Pyle Synced Up (builds full sound system) Other pinecil soldering iron Shure Education Material
- 4 weeks ago57 min
Student Leadership: What you should know Part 3
Hosts Martin Hebda and Aaron Vogel bring Part 3 of our Student Leadership Series. The Copper State Marching Podcast welcomes nationally recognized leadership educator Jeremy Spicer, founder of Sassy Leadership. Jeremy shares the story behind building one of the most influential student leadership programs in the marching arts and offers practical insight into developing stronger student leaders, educators, and band cultures. Throughout the episode, Jeremy dives into: - The origins and evolution of Sassy Leadership - Why relationships are the foundation of effective leadership - Common mistakes young leaders make - Communication strategies for today’s students - How directors can build leadership programs without expensive resources - Practical rehearsal and teaching techniques for student leaders and educators Jeremy also shares lessons from decades in the marching arts, including experiences with Cedar Park High School, Vandegrift High School, Santa Clara Vanguard, and leadership development across the country. Whether you’re a band director, student leader, staff member, or marching arts educator, this episode is packed with real-world leadership advice, rehearsal strategies, and thoughtful conversation about building stronger programs and stronger people. To send in your own band dilemmas or questions, email the podcast team at podcast@azmba.org. Suggested Book study list: • Ted Lasso – “Be curious, not judgmental” • One Minute Manager, Ken Blanchard • Any John Maxwell Books • The Culture Code, Daniel Coyle • Energy Bus, John Gordon • Atomic Habits, James Clear • Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey • Coach Woodens Pyramid of Success, John Wooden and Jay Carty • The Ideal Team Player, Patrick Lencioni • Grit - the pier of passion and perspective, Angela duck worth • The Obstacle is the Way, Ryan Holiday • The Ego is the Enemy, Ryan Holiday • Right Thing, Right Now, Ryan Holiday • Power of influence, Deberry/Burros • The 17 indisputable laws of teamwork, John Maxwell • The Coaching Habit, By Michael Bungay Stanier • Extreme Ownership, Joko Willink and Leif Babin • Dare to Lead, Brene Brown • 5 Dysfunctions of a Team, Patrick Lencioni • Try to be a rainbow in someone’s clouds. Maya Angelou https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iZwhA_9o8Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtdffxj7pNE
- May 12, 202658 min
Student Leadership: What you should know Part 2
In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Aaron Vogel have an engaging and candid conversation with leadership expert Scott Lang. Drawing from decades of experience as an educator and clinician, Scott shares powerful insights into what truly makes student leadership effective and why the selection process matters more than the training itself. Listeners will learn: • Why leadership selection is the most critical decision a director makes • How to design a student leadership system that attracts the right students • The five key traits of successful student leaders • How Scott’s innovative 5-step leadership application transforms band culture • The importance of viewing band through a parent’s lens—and why students often benefit most from band beyond the music Scott also reflects on how the pandemic reshaped parent-school relationships, the evolving role of staff and techs in modern band programs, and why activities like band are more essential than ever in today’s educational landscape. Whether you’re a band director, staff member, or aspiring student leader, this episode is packed with practical ideas, humor, and thought-provoking perspectives that challenge traditional approaches to leadership in music education. Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org
- May 5, 202658 min
Building Your Colorguard: Recruiting, Retention, and Culture
In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Dan Hoffman dive into one of the most challenging aspects of growing a successful program: color guard recruitment and retention. Fresh off the winter season and the excitement of the WGI World Championships, the conversation begins with reflections on judging, growth, and the evolving landscape of the activity. From there the focus shifts to a powerhouse panel of Arizona color guard educators, Keith Casey, Ashley Schmit, and Austin Yost, who share real-world strategies and candid insights from years of experience building thriving programs. Listeners will hear practical ideas for: • Recruiting students in different school environments (from unified districts to multi-feeder systems) • Using tools like social media, student ambassadors, and “bring-a-friend” strategies • Creating engaging first-day experiences that hook new members • Building middle school pipelines and sustaining long-term growth • Supporting student success beyond the field, including academics and community-building Whether you’re a veteran instructor or launching a program for the first time, this episode is packed with actionable advice, honest reflections, and a clear message: strong programs are built on relationships, consistency, and a genuine commitment to students. Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org
- Apr 28, 202651 min
Student Leadership: What you should know
In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Aaron Vogel reconnect after a busy spring season filled with performances, competitions, and student achievements across Arizona’s marching arts community. They celebrate the success of ensembles performing in winter guard, percussion, and national events, while also inviting listeners to share their own end-of-year or summer band questions. The heart of the episode features an engaging and insightful conversation with veteran music educator and leadership clinician Bill Humbert. Bill shares the origins of his widely respected leadership training program, emphasizing a powerful realization: great student leaders aren’t born, they’re taught. Listeners will hear Bill break down the evolution of student leadership, the challenges facing today’s educators and students, and why connection, communication, and consistency matter more than ever. He dives into practical strategies for developing effective student leaders, building trust within ensembles, and creating a culture where students take true ownership of their programs. The conversation also explores: - How leadership education has adapted to changing student needs and attention spans. - The importance of modeling behavior as a teacher and leader. - Balancing excellence with student well-being in demanding programs. - The structure and philosophy behind Bill’s Arizona Leadership Conference camps. Whether you’re a band director, staff member, student leader, or supporter of the marching arts, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives and actionable ideas to strengthen your program and develop leaders who thrive both on and off the field. Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org
- Apr 21, 20261h 5m
Concept to Count Sheets: The Coordinator’s Role in Show Design Part 2
In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, hosts Martin Hebda and Dan Hoffman reconnect with designer Ryan Springler for Part 2 of their deep dive into show design, this time focusing on practical, real-world tools for building a marching production from the ground up. Ryan then takes center stage to break down the nuts and bolts of designing a marching band show, including: • Why starting with a strong concept (instead of music) creates more cohesive and impactful productions • How to evaluate whether an idea is compelling, relevant, and translatable to the marching arts medium • Techniques for turning a musical score into a visual journey, using form, texture, and pacing • The importance of variety and continuity in shaping an engaging audience experience • How collaboration, trust, and even failed ideas can strengthen your design process over time • A clear, actionable definition of pacing and how to balance time vs. content to keep audiences engaged • A breakdown of the count sheet, the essential tool that aligns music, drill, choreography, and production into one cohesive plan • How to structure collaboration across a design team using tools like Google Sheets and layered planning • Why great shows require constant context awareness, not just great moments • Strategies for avoiding common pitfalls—like over-designing one section while neglecting the full production arc Listeners will also hear thoughtful discussion on creativity, intuition, and the art of “pivoting” when a show concept just isn’t working—plus how understanding your students and program culture can elevate every design decision. Whether you're a band director, designer, or student leader, this episode offers actionable strategies and creative inspiration to help you build more meaningful, effective performances. Message the Copper State Marching Podcast at podcast@azmba.org
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About Copper State Marching Podcast
Welcome to the Copper State Marching Podcast! Join us as we dive deep into the vibrant world of marching bands across Arizona and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a proud parent, or simply a fan of the art form, our podcast is your go-to source for all things marching. Each episode features engaging interviews with talented band directors, passionate students, and industry experts who share their insights, experiences, and tips for success. We’ll explore the latest trends, discuss the challenges faced by marching bands, and celebrate the incredible talent found in our Copper State. From competition highlights to behind-the-scenes stories, we aim to inspire and connect the marching band community. So grab your instruments, tune in, and let’s march together into the exciting world of music and performance. This podcast would not be possible without the cooperation of the Arizona Marching Band Association. Thank you AzMBA Board and partnerships!
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