What does it take to build an ensemble that consistently performs at an elite level—and sustain that excellence over decades?
In this episode of Common Time, we talk with Matt Harloff, former Director of Bands at Avon High School and current Brass Caption Head with Carolina Crown. Matt shares lessons from his career in marching band, concert band, and drum corps about developing culture, teaching musical artistry, building student ownership, and getting the most out of every rehearsal.
They discuss:
* Building a culture of excellence without sacrificing artistry and emotion
* Why the first weeks of a season are critical for establishing expectations and rehearsal discipline
* How to make rehearsals more efficient by talking less and doing more
* Using fundamentals and warm-ups to directly address challenges in repertoire
* What high school band directors can learn from the drum corps model
* Creating student ownership by explaining the “why” behind expectations
* Sustaining excellence through strong systems, staff culture, and a willingness to keep evolving
* The importance of finding balance, setting boundaries, and avoiding burnout as a band director
* Why band directors can learn a lot from coaches and strength & conditioning professionals
* Matt’s recommended reading, including Leading with the Heart and Extreme Ownership
Matt also reflects on one of his favorite lessons from his career: sometimes the goal isn't simply to perform perfectly—it’s to create a performance that allows musicians and audiences to stop analyzing and simply experience the music.
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