Tradition Meets Innovation: From Belief to Practice

In part two of my conversation with Alexis Derryberry and Joel Denton on Beyond the Stand, we dive into some of the more pressing questions and challenges that music educators face as they consider integrating modern band programs with traditional music ensembles. While part one explored the values and potential of both approaches, today’s discussion digs deeper into the practicalities, concerns, and visions for the future of music education.

Addressing the Concerns Around Modern Band Integration

One of the central concerns Joel expressed during our conversation was the worry that popular music education, specifically modern band programs, might inadvertently erode traditional ensembles. However, Joel stressed that this doesn't have to be the case. When done thoughtfully, modern band programs can complement traditional ones by providing a pathway for students who might have felt excluded from the classical or traditional band setting. As Joel pointed out, "We shouldn’t live in a world where it’s either/or. It can be in addition to."

Modern band programs offer students who missed out on traditional ensemble opportunities a chance to connect with music in a way that resonates with their personal interests. It gives them a space to explore genres like rock, pop, and rap, which they might not encounter in more formal settings. Furthermore, modern band can lead to students exploring traditional ensembles once they’ve built a foundation in music, fostering a healthy flow between the two worlds.

Debunking the Myth: Popular Music Doesn’t Lack Depth

A common concern surrounding popular music education is that it lacks the depth or discipline found in traditional music education. Alexis and Joel both discussed how this concern often arises but how, in practice, modern band programs can actually offer students a rich and nuanced musical experience.

Alexis shared that many of her students have developed a remarkable ear for music, which she attributes to the hands-on approach of modern band. “The musical discussions they're having… they’re learning how to hear chord changes and structures just by ear,” she explained. This ability to listen critically and analyze music on the fly is a skill that’s often undervalued in traditional music programs that emphasize note reading and strict musical theory.

This approach can often produce students with a deeper, more intuitive understanding of music—an understanding that will serve them well in any musical setting. “They're not just a facilitator of the black and white,” Alexis added. "They're actually creating the music."

Meeting Students Where They Are

The conversation then turned to how educators can meet students where they are, an approach that resonates deeply with both Alexis and Joel. By offering music in a context students find relatable, we are able to spark their interest and lay the foundation for future learning.

Joel reflected on how students, just like adults, have their own preferences and learning curves. “We can't expect students to love music just because we do. We need to meet them where they are and take them where we want them to be,” he emphasized. Whether it’s playing classical music or rocking out to the latest pop hits, what’s important is that students engage with the process of making music, not just the product.

This shift in perspective is essential for modern music education. By validating students' musical interests—whether it’s punk rock or jazz—we create an environment where they are more likely to fall in love with music and continue pursuing it for years to come.

How Can Traditional Ensembles and Modern Band Support Each Other?

A key topic in this episode was how modern band programs and traditional ensembles can coexist and even support each other. Both Alexis and Joel agreed that it doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. The best music programs integrate both, allowing students to explore a variety of musical genres while still receiving the foundational training offered by traditional music programs.

Joel shared an example of a colleague whose students are required to participate in a traditional ensemble before joining a modern band program. This structure ensures that students get the best of both worlds, combining technical mastery with creative exploration. "You can’t just learn music through rote memorization. It’s about creating a well-rounded musician," he said.

The Future: Integrating Support, Training, and Collaboration

As we look to the future of music education, both Alexis and Joel agreed that there needs to be more collaboration among educators across different music disciplines. Band directors, choir directors, and modern band instructors should work together to give students more opportunities to explore their musical interests, whether through interdisciplinary projects or scheduling flexibility. As Alexis pointed out, “It’s not about my choir or your band; it’s about our music program.”

Additionally, professional organizations like TMEA (Tennessee Music Education Association) are beginning to recognize the importance of modern band programs. The conversation is shifting from an either/or mentality to a more inclusive, “in addition to” approach that embraces the diversity of musical experiences that today’s students want.

Making It Accessible: Reaching All Students, Not Just the Well-Funded Schools

A major concern many educators have when it comes to implementing modern band programs is how to make them accessible in less-funded schools. Fortunately, as Alexis and Joel both pointed out, the instruments used in modern band programs—guitars, basses, drums, keyboards—are relatively inexpensive, and there are numerous opportunities for fundraising, donations, and grants to make these programs a reality.

Joel shared a story about a school district where a pop music ensemble, created to fill a gap after the effects of COVID, was met with such enthusiasm that the school board provided additional funding for sound equipment. This level of support, he noted, comes when we demonstrate excellence in our programs. “The best form of advocacy is excellence,” Joel said, encouraging educators to focus on delivering high-quality programs to attract support.

In 10 Years: The Ideal Music Program

So, what would the ideal music program look like in 10 years? For Alexis, it’s a program that combines the best of both worlds—traditional and modern band. “We need to start including cultural music and diverse genres so that students understand and experience the magic of music,” she said. This inclusive approach would ensure that every student feels represented and has the opportunity to engage with music in a way that’s meaningful to them.

For Joel, the ideal music program is one that prepares students for a lifetime of music, regardless of genre. “A fantastic music program produces a well-rounded student who has lots of opportunities to explore different avenues of music,” he explained.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Both Tradition and Innovation

As we concluded the episode, both Alexis and Joel reminded us that music education is not about choosing between tradition and innovation. It’s about finding a way to integrate both, offering students a comprehensive, inclusive, and empowering musical education. As educators, we have the opportunity to shape the future of music by meeting students where they are, engaging with their interests, and providing them with the tools to become lifelong musicians.

Stay tuned for future episodes of Beyond the Stand, where we continue to explore the evolving landscape of music education and how we can inspire the next generation of musicians.

This episode brought to light the evolving nature of music education and the important role that both traditional and modern approaches play in shaping students' musical journeys. It’s clear that we need to embrace the full spectrum of musical expression, from the classroom to the stage, and support our students in every step of their musical education.