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Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas is the definitive music education podcast for teachers at every level. Join renowned composers Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas as they share their wealth of knowledge from decades in the world of instrumental music. Brian's successful tenure as a composer has made his works a staple in concert halls and classrooms worldwide, while Chris's rich background as a public school music teacher has given him unparalleled insight into the daily realities of the classroom. Now, working together through Alfred Music and MakeMusic, Brian and Chris bring their expertise directly to you. Each episode offers relevant and helpful insights on topics that matter most to music educators. You’ll also hear from a variety of special guests who are leaders in the field, ready to discuss impactful music education trends, rehearsal techniques, and program growth ideas. Whether you're a new teacher looking for foundational tips or a veteran director seeking fresh inspiration, this podcast is designed to be your essential resource. Tune in and get ready to Take Notes!

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Check latest episodes from Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas podcast

Richard Floyd: Rehearsing Human Connection, 5-Step Score Study, and Artistry at Every Grade Level

2026/10/21

In Season 2 Episode 204 of Take Notes, Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas sit down with legend of music education Richard Floyd. With over 60 years of experience as a conductor, educator, and Texas State Director of Music Emeritus, Floyd shares his journey from chasing trophy wins as a young director to discovering the true artistry of music making through a chance meeting with H. Robert Reynolds. He breaks down how directors can escape the "analytical loop" that leads to burnout, explains his multi-step score study method, shares memories of conducting Rippling Watercolors, and delivers timeless wisdom on why becoming a better musician requires becoming a broader, richer human being.

Cynthia Johnston Turner: Student-Centered Rehearsals, Leadership, and Podium Vulnerability

2026/10/07

In Season 2 Episode 203 of Take Notes, Brian Balmages and Chris "Cool Breeze" Bernotas sit down with renowned conductor and pedagogue Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner (WASBE President-Elect, Wellington Wind Symphony Artistic Director, Wilfrid Laurier University, and the American Band College). From starting music on a moss-green, two-octave toy keyboard in Peterborough, Ontario, to overhauling college curricula and conducting world premieres, CJT shares a candid look at grit, leadership, and ensemble culture. She challenges directors to stop demonizing school administrators, transition from top-down podium dictation to student-centered engagement, and adjust the physical tension that holds many conductors back on the podium.

Cristian Măcelaru: Score Study with Boulez, Rehearsal Strategy, and the Paris Olympics

2026/09/23

In Season 2 Episode 202 of Take Notes, Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas sit down with Grammy Award–winning conductor Maestro Cristian Măcelaru (Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Orchestre National de France, Cabrillo Festival, Interlochen World Youth Symphony Orchestra). From his early days as the youngest concertmaster in Miami Symphony history to stepping in for Pierre Boulez with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Maestro Măcelaru shares incredible stories of luck meeting preparation. He breaks down his unique score study philosophy, explains why he treats youth orchestras with the exact same artistic rigor as world-class professional ensembles, and relives the chaotic behind-the-scenes drama of conducting in a torrential downpour at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony.

Darcy Vogt Williams: Building 600-Student Cultures, Inviting Growth Critique, and Avoiding Burnout

2026/09/09

Welcome to the Season 2 Premier of Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas! Brian and Chris jump into the video era (complete with birthday celebrations for Chris) before sitting down with Darcy Vogt Williams, Head Director at Stiles Middle School (Leander ISD). Darcy pulls back the curtain on how she manages a massive program of nearly 600 band students. From a unique two-week "no instrument" front-loaded theory approach to an intentional, non-biased instrument testing model, Darcy shares game-changing strategies for early-year pacing, building trust, and setting firm boundaries for long-term career sustainability that are relevant for any music educator.

The First Vod: Summer Shore, HybridNow & Exciting New Releases! 🎬🎺

2026/08/12

In this special video bonus episode, Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas assemble in Louisville, Colorado, to reflect on their whirlwind summer travels across various educational institutes, bandmaster conventions, and a quick recharge at the Jersey Shore. Between jokes about "vodcasts" and "mini-pods," the duo pulls back the curtain on major new product launches from Alfred Music and MakeMusic, including HybridNow, Marvel Foundations, Sound Innovations 2nd Edition, and Center Stage. They also officially open up submissions for Season 2 Q&A via their dedicated hotline and community channels.

Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"

2026/06/12

We made it! In this epic, high-energy Season 1 finale, Brian and Chris take a victory lap through their debut season, proving they are still "works in progress, progressing on their works." Joined on-air by their producer, Marianne White, the hosts look back at the chaotic, beautiful journey of launching the pod: from completely forgetting to introduce their very first guest to expanding their global footprint. This episode is a masterful mix of laugh-out-loud moments (including the origin of the "sneeze blast" and impromptu singing) and profound insights pulled from listener questions spanning from Ohio to Australia. It serves as a masterclass in performance anxiety survival skills, the raw vulnerability of the creative process, and a passionate defense of why the human "heart business" of music education can never be replaced by AI.

Cheryl Floyd: Unlocking Musicality, The Power of Rote, and "Show Me Your Dirty Laundry"

2026/05/29

In this high-energy "end-of-year" special, Brian and Chris dive into strategies for keeping students engaged during the "final countdown" of the school year. They are then joined by the iconic Cheryl Floyd, a trailblazer in the middle school band world. Cheryl shares her "non-traditional" start, her philosophy on commissioning world-class composers for young ensembles, and her "Suzuki-inspired" approach to starting beginners without a book. This episode is a masterclass in removing barriers for students, the vital importance of mentorship for "grown-up" teachers, and why musicality should never be the "third 50%" of your rehearsal.

Omar Thomas: Curiosity, The Power of the Platform, and "Mother of a Revolution"

2026/05/11

In one of the most powerful and timely episodes of the season, Brian and Chris sit down with Omar Thomas to discuss his "non-linear" evolution from a 23-year-old Berklee professor to one of the most significant voices in contemporary wind band music. The conversation dives into the "invisible music" that cannot be written on a page—the vernacular, the grit, and the soul of jazz and gospel. The episode culminates in a deep discussion about the "platform" of the band room and a direct address of the controversy surrounding his piece, Mother of a Revolution, currently being challenged by a school board in Wisconsin. 🖼️ Omar’s featured headshot was recently commissioned from queer artist, Anthony Hurd.

Scott Rush: Building Cultures of Trust, Servant Leadership, and the "Teaching Inventory"

2026/05/01

In this episode, Brian and Chris open the show with a vulnerable (and hilarious) look at "Fan Mail"—specifically the kind that calls you an idiot. This leads into a profound discussion on Imposter Syndrome and the importance of a trusting community. They are then joined by Scott Rush, the visionary behind the Habits of a Successful Band Director series. Scott shares his journey from a horn performance major to building the massive Wando High School program from 98 to 280 students. The trio dives deep into the "three buckets" of musical capacity, the evolution of the classroom from a "dictatorship" to a "music-making lab," and why high expectations are actually the ultimate form of love.

The Heart of the School: Teacher Appreciation and the 2025 Spark Award with Amanda Cornet

2026/04/17

In this heartfelt episode, Brian and Chris celebrate the "Heart of the School"—the teachers. The conversation kicks off with a humorous and nostalgic look at Teacher Appreciation Week (featuring the legendary "Omelet Guy" and "Pasta Guy") before transitioning into a high-level discussion on the impact of mentorship. The hosts are joined by the first-ever Spark Award recipient, Amanda Cornet, who shares her journey from a pre-med hopeful to a community-driven orchestra director. The episode concludes with Brian and Chris sharing intimate stories of the teachers who didn't just teach them notes, but unlocked their musical souls and prepared them for the "real world." The 2026 Spark Award (presented by Alfred Music and MakeMusic) nominations will open on 4/20/26. Learn more and nominate a deserving teacher at makemusic.com/spark!

Ryan Nowlin: Stewardship, The Non-Linear Path, and The "Why" of Service

2026/04/02

In this deeply personal and moving episode, Brian and Chris welcome a dear friend and a titan of the wind band world, Ryan Nowlin. From his unexpected start as a "math major just in case" to leading the United States Marine Band, Ryan shares the "cauterizing experiences" that shaped his career. The conversation explores the profound influence of mentors, the transition from the classroom to the Marine Barracks, and the "unbroken lineage" of the Marine Band. Whether discussing the technicality of conducting elite pros or the emotional gravity of working with John Williams, Ryan reminds us that while music is the how, service is the why.

Alex Shapiro: The Art of the Leap, Digital Connectivity, and the "Heart Business"

2026/03/20

In this vibrant and thought-provoking episode, Brian and Chris connect with Alex Shapiro, a composer whose career is a testament to the power of "saying yes" to the unknown. From her roots in Manhattan, through the gritty LA commercial music scene, and to her current "creative cocoon" on a remote Washington island, Alex discusses her non-traditional path to becoming a wind band staple. The conversation dives into the nuances of electroacoustic music, the ethical boundaries of AI in the arts, and the vital importance of self-awareness. This episode is a masterclass in building a career through genuine relationships, the courage to be "the first you" instead of a second someone else, and the pursuit of beauty in a digital world.

Wayne Bergeron: Studio Magic, Lead Trumpet Secrets, and the Legacy of Gordon Goodwin

2026/03/06

In this raw and high-energy episode, Brian and Chris sit down with Wayne Bergeron, arguably the most recorded trumpet player of our time. From his "accidental" transition from French horn to trumpet (thanks to a vandalized band room) to his storied career on over 500 film scores, Wayne pulls back the curtain on the Hollywood studio life. The conversation spans his mentorship under Maynard Ferguson, his deep brotherhood with the late Gordon Goodwin, and his personal battle with cancer. This episode is a masterclass in professional humility, the technicality of "studio magic," and the emotional weight of musical legacy.

Jeffrey Grogan: Crossover Conducting, The Artistry of Strings, and Recruiting the Future

2026/02/20

In this dynamic episode, Brian and Chris welcome Jeffrey Grogan, a conductor who famously crossed over from the "dark side" of elite marching bands to the pinnacle of orchestral studies. Jeff shares his unique journey—from conducting to his Star Wars soundtrack in 4th grade to inspiring countless music students. The conversation bridges the gap between band and orchestra, explores the "physiological" nature of string playing, and dives into the urgent national mission of recruiting the next generation of music educators.

Paula Crider: Breaking Barriers, The Power of Storytelling, and Finding Joy in the Note

2026/02/06

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Brian and Chris sit down with Paula Crider, a true pioneer in music education. Paula shares her remarkable journey from a small-town Mississippi basketball player to becoming the first female high school band director in Texas 5A history. The conversation explores the courage required to stand up for oneself in a male-dominated field, the profound responsibility of being a role model for students, and why passion is the ultimate "secret ingredient" to music-making. From "blowing in the small end" of a trumpet to conducting world-class ensembles, Paula’s story is a masterclass in resilience and lifelong learning.

Podcast reviews

Read Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas podcast reviews

5 out of 5

36 reviews

★★★★★

LarryStyleson135 2026/05/22

For EVERY band director.

This is still crazy to say, but as a veteran band director (Who? Me?) I learn from this podcast every time I listen to it. Sometimes I’m shaking my he...

★★★★★

Dr. Scott Watson 2026/03/22

Practical and inspiring!

In each episode of this podcast’s brief run, I have found both practical/useful information and inspirational wisdom and encouragement. Both hosts (wh...

★★★★★

TXBands 2025/10/13

Amazing Resource!

These titans of the band industry come together to talk about music and music education! Incredible!

★★★★★

SusannBlair 2025/10/07

Super excited!!!

Finally, a podcast from 2 of my favorite people in music education, composition, and LIFE!!! So super excited for all that they will bring the POD wor...

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