Episodes

This episode is a must-listen for everyone. Whether you're a music teacher, a band director, a devoted drum corps or indoor percussion fan, or a student considering a future in music education, there's something in this conversation for you. Join us as we embark on a journey with Sammi Rogers, explore the challenges and triumphs of her remarkable career, and learn from her experiences as a teacher, performer, and advocate for women in the world of percussion. We delve deep into topics that matte...

Lindsey Schueller is known for her talent and incredible impact of visual design in the world of the marching arts. In this episode, Lindsey shares her profound passion for visual design, exploring the driving forces and inspirations that have guided her throughout her remarkable career. We delve into the intricate details of the 2022 Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps Production of "Voracious," dissecting the creative process and the emotions behind their groundbreaking DCI Finals performance. Linds...

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of the music and arts industry, exploring the essential strategies for self-promotion that can take your career to the next level. Whether you're an aspiring student looking to break into the scene, established musician seeking to expand your reach, or anyone passionate about the arts, these five invaluable tips will guide you on your journey to success and transform your passion into a thriving career. Send in a voice message!

Ever wondered what it would be like to compete in an obstacle course on the field at Lucas Oil Stadium for a chance to win scholarship money for marching drum corps? On this episode, I talk with 2023 Ultimate Drill Book Tour Fee Giveaway Finalists Rosalee Garcia and Kenadie Edwards on their experience in the marching arts as well as their path through their journey to being a finalist for the UDB Tour Fee Giveaway. We talk about their passion for colorguard and drum corps along with their experi...

Whether you're an educator, a musician, or simply someone seeking growth and connection, this episode will resonate deeply with you. Join us as we learn from Jennifer Hanford, Head Band Director at James Bowie HS, and her wisdom and passion for nurturing the next generation of musicians and leaders. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of vulnerability and the importance of making mistakes in front of our students.

Kendall Santos has established herself as a visionary leader in her band program, and during this episode, we delve into the significance of leadership in creating your band program. She shares her insights on fostering a positive and inclusive environment, emphasizing that talent knows no boundaries when it comes to race, gender, background, or any other label society might impose. The heart of our conversation centers on the tough but crucial discussions about female identity within our com...

Creating a safe and uplifting environment in any educational program is crucial, and Cori sheds light on the strategies she employs to foster collaboration, respect, and camaraderie among her students. We also discuss the significance of empathy and understanding in building strong teacher-student relationships, paving the way for an inclusive and harmonious learning space. Send in a voice message!

Work-Life balance is one of the toughest things to navigate especially in the music education space. In this episode, I sit down with Jana Harvey from Flower Mound HS to discuss on how she has maintained a healthy mindset and work-life balance. Send in a voice message!

Women representation in the drumming and percussion world is steadily growing year over year but there's still a lot of work that needs to be done. Brittany Baptista and I talk about our experiences being the only woman in our career as percussionists. Send in a voice message!

Regardless of fancy awards and high rankings, the impact left on students is the heart of a program's success. In this episode, I am joined by Katie VanDoren, Director of Bands at Vandegrift High School where we explore the true measure of program success, centered around student impact. Tune in to this episode for an inspiring discussion that highlights the meaning of success, balancing motherhood as a Head Band Director, and lessons learned from performing with Carolina Crown. Send us a voi...

It's finally here! Welcome to Fem Forte--your new favorite source for inspiring interviews with female music educators and performers. If you're excited for what's to come, help us get the word out by sharing a screenshot of this episode on your socials and tagging @FemFortePodcast. Amanda DeFrees is the host of Fem Forte and currently serves as the Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Amanda has worn multiple hats throughout her career as a performer, musician, and media professional. Ama...

Explore how learning from our own missteps and teaching with a distinctive voice shapes our exceptional journey. Tune in now for insights that inspire individuality and innovation in education.

We talk about the importance of creating a safe space in music for young women to feel empowered and thrive as individuals and how creating an all-women based camp can impact the future generation.

It's finally here! Welcome to episode one of Fem Forte-- a podcast where we celebrate women in music and performing arts. Learn about the "why" behind Fem Forte as host Amanda DeFrees sits down with Luke and Josh Gall from Ultimate Drill Book and shares the story behind the process from idea generation to implementation. Amanda DeFrees is the host of Fem Forte and currently serves as the Director of Media at Ultimate Drill Book. Amanda has worn multiple hats throughout her career as a performer...