Rephonic
Artwork for Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas
Music Education
Halloween
Midwest Clinic
Wayne Bergeron
Composition
Storytelling
Teacher Burnout
Teaching Techniques
Leadership
Positive Attitude
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Spark Award
Omar Thomas
Motivational Speaking
Score Study
Mentorship
Rehearsal Techniques
Teaching Methods
Parent Orchestra
Crescendo Orchestra

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 ... more

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes21Founded10 months ago
Number of ListenersCategories
EducationMusic

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Artwork for Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas

Latest Episodes

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 l... more

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 wor... more

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.... more

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. ... more

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Recent Guests

Paula Kreider
Guest described as energetic and passionate; notable music educator
Education/Music Education
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Rosano Galante
Composer who discussed his process and career path
Composer
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Robert Herring
Educator focused on relationships and community in schools
Teacher/Director
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Omar Thomas
Composer discussing reading, performance, and controversy in music education
Composer
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Soon-Hee Bold (Soon He Kwon Bold)
Composer discussing the compositional process and overcoming fears in creation
Composer
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Alex Shapiro
Composer discussing heart-centered approaches to music
Composer
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Su Han
George Mason contributor sharing inspirational quotes and teaching philosophy
George Mason University
Episode: Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Cheryl Floyd
Retired director of bands, Hill Country Middle School (Austin, TX); renowned clinician and composer advocate for music education
Hill Country Middle School, Austin, Texas
Episode: Cheryl Floyd: Unlocking Musicality, The Power of Rote, and "Show Me Your Dirty Laundry"
Scott Rush
Conductor, clinician and adjudicator; former Director of Bands at Wando High School, South Carolina
Wando High School (past) / Various
Episode: Scott Rush: Building Cultures of Trust, Servant Leadership, and the "Teaching Inventory"

Hosts

Brian Balmages
Host of Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas; composer and educator with ties to Alfred Music/MakeMusic
Chris Bernotas
Co-host of Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas; educator and clinician with ties to Alfred Music/MakeMusic

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 38 ratings
  • 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 head, vehemently in agreement to something that I have done for years and found to be worthwhile and effective. Sometimes I am aghast with “Why didn’t I think of that??” LOTS of times I am texting friends to listen. But all the time I’m inspired and writing, which prompts more exploration and more learning. Grateful for this podcast thanks guys.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    LarryStyleson135
    United States2 months ago
  • 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 (whom I know from the band world) have a fun chemistry and strike the right balance between lighthearted banter, and serious, grounded discussion with their guests. Highly recommended!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Dr. Scott Watson
    United States4 months ago
  • Amazing Resource!

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

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    TXBands
    United States9 months ago
  • 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 world!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    SusannBlair
    United States10 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Audiences cite inspiration and actionable tips for band programs and classroom teaching.
Listeners praise practical, field-tested advice and warm host dynamics.
High regard for guest expertise and the community feel around episodes.

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Q: How can a new director overcome imposter syndrome when taking on leadership roles like honor bands?
Seek mentorship, use small soft-launch opportunities, involve capable students to assist, and create a safe culture that encourages risk-taking without fear of judgment.
Season 1 Finale: "The Works in Progress Wrap-Up Special"
Q: What advice would you give to a high school student preparing for a music education major in college if they started late?
Start by listening, practicing, and networking with teachers and professors; get lessons if possible, and volunteer to gain hands-on experience in schools to build confidence and connections.
Wayne Bergeron: Studio Magic, Lead Trumpet Secrets, and the Legacy of Gordon Goodwin
Q: How did you land your first studio gig and transition to studio life?
Bergeron explains the gradual buildup from high school gigs to a major first movie session, followed by steadily more opportunities as he proved himself in the studio through doing his best work and being reliable.
Scott Rush: Building Cultures of Trust, Servant Leadership, and the "Teaching Inventory"
Q: How did you approach transforming the Wando program's culture to support growth from 98 to around 280 students?
Rush describes creating freshman interviews, building trust through personal connection, and ensuring that both cultural and musical growth are fostered together, with leadership opportunities available to all students.
The Heart of the School: Teacher Appreciation and the 2025 Spark Award with Amanda Cornet
Q: How did the Spark Award influence Amanda's approach to teaching and community outreach?
Amanda describes how the award catalyzed a broader commitment to outreach, including hands-on projects like the sound garden and volunteer-based programs that engage students, families, and community partners.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
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Professions
Age Range
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Frequently Asked Questions About Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas

What is Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas delivers practical, practitioner-focused conversations for music educators, instrument teachers, and program leaders. Across episodes, the hosts and a rotating roster of guests—ranging from veteran band directors and conductors to composers and university educators—share teaching strategies, rehearsal techniques, leadership approaches, and real-world insights on growing programs, engaging students, and balancing artistry with pedagogy. A standout throughline is people-centered pedagogy: building relationships, fostering student agency, and using storytelling and mentorship to elevate ensembles. The format mixes actionable tips (rehearsal planning, literature selection, recruitment) with personal journey... more

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Which podcasts are similar to Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas:

1. The Growing Band Director
2. Good Hang with Amy Poehler
3. Hidden Brain
4. Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
5. Pod Save America

How many episodes of Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas are there?

Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas launched 10 months ago and published 21 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas?

Recent guests on Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas include:

1. Paula Kreider
2. Rosano Galante
3. Robert Herring
4. Omar Thomas
5. Soon-Hee Bold (Soon He Kwon Bold)
6. Alex Shapiro
7. Su Han
8. Cheryl Floyd

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