Ask Mike | Lessons for Music Educators
Ask Mike is the go‑to podcast for music educators, band directors, and music program leaders seeking real answers rooted in real‑world experience. Hosted by veteran Texas Band Director Mike Lunney and co‑host Derrick Killam, a long-time leader in supporting Texas Music Education programs, the show focuses on learning from hard‑earned lessons, so you don’t make the same mistakes yourself.
🎵 No fluff. No guesswork. Just experience.
👉 Don’t reinvent the wheel — just Ask Mike!
About the Hosts
Mike Lunney
With 31 successful years as a head band director in Texas, Mike’s bands were consistently recognized as superior, and his insights come straight from the podium, not a textbook. Today, Mike remains active as a clinician, mentor, and adjudicator, continuing to shape the next generation of music educators.
Derrick Killam
A lifelong supporter of school music programs across Texas since 1990. Derrick brings a unique industry perspective from decades in music retail, having served as a Repair Tech, Repair Shop Foreman, Education Specialist, and now as a key member of Tarpley Music, a NAMM Top 100 Dealer and industry leading Musical Instrument Retailer in the United States.
Ask Mike | Lessons for Music Educators
Latest Episodes
Marching: Success Starts With The Fundamentals
As our friend Mike Lunney is fond of saying, "I teach fundamental skills because there are no advanced skills, just advanced situations requiring strong fundamentals." In this episode, Mike discusses the fundamentals for marching, whether it's ...
Marching: Defining the 8 Core Principles of Technique and Movement
In this episode, Mike Lunney breaks down the eight core or fundamental principles for marching techniques and movement. These are borrowed from the book "Beyond the Basics" by Nick Benson, Adam Oswald, and Dylan Thomson. Mike introduced these p...
Marching: Techniques and Principles to Move Beyond the Basics
Borrowing from the book, "Beyond the Basics," by Nick Benson, Adam Oswald, and Dylan Thompson, as well as sharing experiences from 39 years as a performer, educator, and clinician, Mike Lunney offers great insight for taking your ensemble past ...
Marching: Setting Your Program Up For Success!
Here we are, looking at a new marching season ahead through fresh eyes! The canvas is blank and opportunity awaits. Mike Lunney has set up a series of episodes to help you set your program up to take advantage of the opportunities that are wait...
Marching: From Learning to Mastery, The 5 Box Concept
Learning, Knowing, Understanding, Communicating, and Mastering. The five boxes your marching ensemble goes through on their way to becoming the most successful version of themselves. Listen this episode as Mike Lunney explains how our ensembles...
