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
They Aint Heavy, They're Our Program Kids!
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The Hollies had a hit with, "He Aint Heavy, He's My Brother." One of the lines... "His Welfare is of my concern, no burden is he..." What a great sentiment! And one that many of us in Music Education relate to.
But how do we help? What is expected? What is acceptable? As educators, we have such an awesome opportunity to affect for good!
Joined again this episode by friend Brian Hecimovich, the discussion is one that comes from real world experience on both ends of the need equation.
