Take Notes with Balmages and Bernotas

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

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 [https://www.wpr.org/news/wisconsin-school-board-watertown-spring-band-concert-lgbtq-history?fbclid=IwY2xjawRu4ORleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe6JJz4MmS5jc0KDjcS_doL97MaOjOJMsCULEamNldQ_jp5Qi5gEHfmKmW20o_aem_bNJL__qwB8ng5A3p9IkiyQ]. 🖼️ Omar’s featured headshot was recently commissioned from queer artist, Anthony Hurd.

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

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

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 [http://makemusic.com/spark]!

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

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"

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.