Everything Band Podcast

Ron Sikes has been a band director in Jefferson County Missouri for 19 years and a MMEA Past Jazz Vice President. In many ways, Ron embodies the growth mindset and in this episode he discusses his relentless pursuit of personal growth in all that he does. Topics: Ron’s background growing up and the winding road that he took to becoming a music teacher and music professional. Thoughts about jazz education, tips for teaching improvisation, and how those experiences led to Ron composing music for his own band and eventually those around him. The importance of taking private lessons on instruments that you don’t know well and advice for bartering your knowledge in exchange for those of another musician. Working with other composers, especially Gary Gackstatter (Episode 12) and the value that these collaborations bring to his students and the audience. Links: MLO Music Publications Jefferson R-VII School District Funky Butt Brass Band Missouri Music Education Symposium Wagner: Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral