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Artwork for Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas

Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas

Brian Balmages and Chris Bernotas in conjunction with Alfred Music and MakeMusic
Music Education
Halloween
Midwest Clinic
Wayne Bergeron
Score Study
Composition
Storytelling
Teacher Burnout
Teaching Techniques
Leadership
Positive Attitude
Education
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Spark Award
Omar Thomas
Motivational Speaking
Mentorship
Rehearsal Techniques
Teaching Methods
Parent 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

64 ratings
PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes26Foundeda year ago
Number of ListenersCategories
MusicEducation

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Artwork for Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas
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Latest Episodes

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

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 jo... more

21 Oct 2026 • 1 hr 15 min

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

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 Univ... more

7 Oct 2026 • 1 hr 16 min • Most popular

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

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 S... more

23 Sep 2026 • 1 hr 26 min

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

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 (Lea... more

9 Sep 2026 • 1 hr 22 min

Key Facts

Accepts Guests
Accepts Sponsors
Contact Information
Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

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Recent Guests

Cynthia Johnston Turner
Director of Bands and Professor of Music, dean of faculty of music at Wilfrid Laurier University; president-elect of WASBE; advocate for underrepresented voices
Wilfrid Laurier University; WASBE
Episode: Cynthia Johnston Turner: Student-Centered Rehearsals, Leadership, and Podium Vulnerability
Cristian Măcelaru
Maestro, Grammy Award-winning conductor
Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra; Orchestre National de France; Interlochen Center for the Arts; Cabrillo Festival
Episode: Cristian Măcelaru: Score Study with Boulez, Rehearsal Strategy, and the Paris Olympics
Darcy Vogt Williams
Head band director at Stiles Middle School, Leander ISD; author and pedagogy advocate
Stiles Middle School, Leander Independent School District
Episode: Darcy Vogt Williams: Building 600-Student Cultures, Inviting Growth Critique, and Avoiding Burnout
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"

Hosts

Brian Balmages
Composer and educator; long-time host of the show with strong ties to Alfred Music and MakeMusic
Chris Bernotas
Educator and co-host with deep classroom experience; frequently described as a clinician and teacher

Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars from 64 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 States5 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 States7 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 Statesa year 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 Statesa year ago
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Listeners Say

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

Guests are described as industry luminaries, offering valuable career and craft guidance.
The format is seen as a reliable resource for teachers seeking inspiration and implementable ideas.
Listeners praise practical, actionable teaching insights for band programs.
Genuine chemistry between hosts with a balance of humor and serious discussion.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#217
Australia/Music
Apple Podcasts
#154
Israel/Music

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Cynthia Johnston Turner: Student-Centered Rehearsals, Leadership, and Podium Vulnerability
Q: How did you get started in music given the obstacles you faced growing up?
I found early success and support in school, which helped me push through financial and social barriers, and I developed a deep love for the process of practicing and teaching, even when I wasn't the most naturally talented.
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.

Audience Metrics

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

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

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?

Two veteran music-education hosts share practical rehearsal strategies, score study insights, and program-building ideas with leading educators, composers, and industry professionals. Episodes center on classroom realities, leadership in school bands, and the intersection of pedagogy with creativity, culture, and community. Notable strengths include long-tenured hosts who blend hands-on teaching experience with high-profile guest perspectives, a clear focus on scalable program growth, and actionable takeaways for teachers at all levels. The show often features guests who bridge education, composition, and performance, delivering both heart and technique in a highly usable format for listeners considering sponsorship or guesting opportunitie... 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. After Sectionals
3. Common Time Podcast
4. Almost Everything I've Learned About Teaching Band
5. That Band Life

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

Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas launched a year ago and published 26 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. Cynthia Johnston Turner
2. Cristian Măcelaru
3. Darcy Vogt Williams
4. Paula Kreider
5. Rosano Galante
6. Robert Herring
7. Omar Thomas
8. Soon-Hee Bold (Soon He Kwon Bold)

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