How does band education work in Connecticut? Host Ryan Ashley talks with Connecticut music educators Anthony Susi and Brian Cyr about the state’s music organizations, all-state and regional auditions, concert and marching band opportunities, jazz education, festivals, mentorship, and what makes Connecticut’s band community unique.
They break down the full school-year calendar—from marching season through regional festivals and the All-State Conference—and discuss how a small state creates strong connections among directors, schools, and professional organizations.
Sponsors
Standing O Marching
Sight Reading Factory
RCP Drum Company
Wenger for Music Education
https://wengercorp.com/triplethreats?utm_source=BTP&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=2627WCTT&utm_content=midrollad
BetterSax with Sweetwater
https://geni.us/bettersaxclassicsax
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Connecticut band education
00:51 Meet Anthony Susi and Brian Cyr
02:03 Connecticut’s music education organizations
03:46 Student-focused events and growing festival opportunities
06:05 Regional ensembles and the All-State pathway
07:06 How Connecticut’s size strengthens director collaboration
08:13 Honor wind ensemble and student composition festival
09:38 All-State Conference and professional development
13:16 School size and marching band classifications
16:27 A Connecticut band calendar: summer through spring
20:23 Concert band festivals and adjudication opportunities
23:02 Building a statewide concert festival model
26:18 Marching band in Connecticut and state championships
28:45 University-hosted clinics and performance opportunities
33:14 Regional and All-State audition process
38:23 Jazz, mariachi, modern band, and world percussion
41:40 Honor jazz ensembles and local jazz festivals
45:20 Solo and chamber ensemble opportunities
48:44 Mentorship and support for new music teachers
53:35 Why Connecticut’s band community stands out