Welcome to Fem Forte--your new favorite source for inspiring interviews with women in music and performing arts. Fem Forte is hosted by Amanda DeFrees, Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Come join me on this journey as I sit down and have real conversations with women who are making strides and impacting the community in a positive way. Whether you are a band director, performer, conductor, musician, or love music and performing arts, this podcast is for you!
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Myra Rhoden, the Fine Arts Department Chairperson and Band Director at Fayette County High School in Georgia. Dr. Rhoden shares her inspiring journey into music education, highlighting th...
Welcome back, listeners! As we celebrate Women’s History Month. In this special episode, we're taking it back to where it all began – my alma mater, Texas A&M University - Kingsville. Joined by fellow Javelinas on the panel, ...
In this special live taping of Fem Forte, we had the privilege of addressing hundreds of students at the Incomparable Marching Workshop held at West Chester University. Our panel of remarkable women, Trish Cornett, Shirley Do...
Did you know the Blue Man Group actually doesn't include just men? Kaylie Brooke and Jamese Moses are trailblazers in the world of entertainment, making history as part of the first inaugural all-women cast of "The Musician" ...
We're bringing you a unique treat: our very first live taping at the Girls March camp in the vibrant heart of Houston, Texas.This episode holds a special place in our hearts because it allowed us to sit down with some …
Imagine walking into a drumline or front ensemble audition and only seeing other girls there. It may be tough to picture. Raychel Taylor has become a visionary leader in the world of percussion and her deep passion for empowe...
Podcast Host
Amanda DeFrees is the host of Fem Forte and currently serves as the Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Fem Forte is a podcast that celebrates women in the arts. This podcast is meant to empower the next generation of women in the performing arts by interviewing amazing female educators, performers, and professionals alike who are currently in the industry. Amanda has worn multiple hats throughout her career as a performer, musician, and media professional. Amanda has been featured in Business Innovators Magazine, Canvas Rebel Magazine, Texas A&M Kingsville Foundation Annual Report, The South Texan Newspaper, and Corpus Christi Caller Times. Amanda is a proud alum of Winter Guard International Silver Medalist Crossmen Winds Performing Ensemble, 5points Percussion, and has performed as a contracted musician at SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment and NCAA Final Four Entertainment Ensemble.