Learn the ins and outs of leading a band to musical excellence from a veteran with more than twenty-five years of practical, real-world experience. Author Thomas McCauley writes in an engaging, conversational style that feels as if you are chatting over coffee, learning about insights, mistakes, revelations, and triumphs that would help any band director. Chapter topics include: Job interviews You are the new band director...now what? Repertoire is important...choose wisely. Study and preparation The Lesson Plan is the score. The first ten minutes always the person on the podium Competition Smart instrument substitutions, Mental resolve, Marvellous materials to help you on your journey. Join McCauley as he discusses the universal challenges band directors face on the way to growing their band into its musical best.