NYSBDA - New York State Band Directors Association

12/05/2025

Don't miss these inspiring sessions and performances happening this weekend! Whether you're focused on technical repairs, building a positive ensemble environment, or exploring performance sound, there is something fantastic for you.

Friday Highlights

Join Bradley Morrison for Student-led Instrument Repairs from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. in CC Cascade ABC. Learn practical tips for empowering your students!

Immediately following, head to the Exhibition North Wall at 2:30 p.m. for a concert-clinic you won't want to miss: "What is Your Sound?" featuring Richard Goss, Daniel DeAngelis, and the Lancaster HS Symphonic Band. Get inspired by this high-level, practical session!

Saturday Highlights

On Saturday from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. in the CC Lilac Ballroom, Erin Althen and Greg Borsz will present Building Ensemble Culture of Joy. Discover impactful ways to foster a truly joyful and collaborative spirit in your performing groups!

Let's make this conference weekend incredible! See you there!

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from the New York State Band Directors Association!

As we pause to celebrate this season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to recognize and thank you—the dedicated band directors across New York State.

Your impact goes far beyond the podium. From the early morning lessons and late-night rehearsals to the administrative hurdles and the unwavering mentorship you provide, you are doing incredible work. You create safe spaces for expression, teach resilience, and bring the joy of music to students in every corner of our state.

We know how demanding this time of year can be as you prepare for winter concerts and festivals. We hope this holiday provides you with a well-deserved break to rest, recharge, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones.

Thank you for everything you do to keep music education alive and thriving in New York. We wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and a peaceful start to the holiday season!

11/07/2025

The New York State Band Directors Association is pleased to announce application procedures for participation in the annual NYSBDA Symposium in Syracuse, New York, on March 6-8, 2026.

Please view our application procedures at: https://nysbda.org/symposium-call-for-clinicians/

10/16/2025

It is with great sadness that the New York State Band Directors Association shares the news that Edward S. Lisk passed away on Oct. 14, 2025. Ed, a founding member of NYSBDA, shared his vision and passion for music education. A tireless advocate, Ed has enriched the lives of countless students, colleagues and teachers. His contributions and innovative teaching methods have left an enduring legacy for the band world. NYSBDA wishes to extend condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all of the musicians he inspired for so many years.

Edward S. Lisk, 91, of Oswego, passed away with his loving family at his side on October 14, 2025. Born in Oswego, he was the son of the late Edward A. and Jennie Segal Lisk. Ed was a graduate of Oswego High School. He was a graduate of Syracuse University

09/18/2025

September 2025 Bandstand - https://mailchi.mp/456dd219c383/august-2020-band-stand-10339149

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day to all New York State Band Directors!

We hope you are enjoying this final, well-deserved pause before the downbeat of the new school year. We know for many of you, the 'labor' of love has already begun with weeks of band camp, planning, and preparation, and we recognize the immense dedication that requires.

As the sun sets on summer and the first day of classes approaches, we want to wish you a fantastic start to the 2025-2026 school year. May your first rehearsals be filled with energy, your students arrive eager to learn, and your administrative tasks be minimal!

Here's to a year of incredible music, growth, and community. The NYSBDA is proud to support you every step of the way.

08/14/2025

08/14/2025

Congratulations to the first-ever NYSBDA Elementary Honor Band on their successful performance yesterday! We had over 90 rising 5th and 6th-grade students from across the state perform at Ford Hall on the Ithaca College Campus.

It was a positive experience for the students, teachers, and families to witness the young talent in our band programs here in New York. We hope to see more students in the coming years and share the magic of music-making with our beginning band students!

08/13/2025

ONE WEEK FROM TODAY!

Author Lindsey Williams invites you to celebrate the launch of her book, "Where the Valley Widens"! This powerful and inspiring novel-like account shares the story of a young music teacher's first 18 years in the profession. The book is an essential read for both new and veteran teachers, covering topics from NYSSMA and inclusion to professional development and commissioning new music.

A central theme of the book is the legacy of Lindsey's mentor and former NYSSMA Jazz Chair, Daniel Fabricius. His wisdom, which had a significant impact on the current NYSSMA Jazz curriculum, is celebrated throughout the book.

Join Lindsey at Theodore's Books for a FREE launch event featuring an interview with Daniel Williams, a Q&A, a short reading, and a chance to network and have your copy signed. There will be water, snacks, and a few freebies available. Books will be supplied by Theodore's Books.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, August 20th
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Theodore's Books (17 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, NY, 11771)

Registration is required to attend. RSVP here: https://www.theodoresbooks.com/event/lindsey-williams-9798991456388