Sigma Alpha Iota

Spring 2021 14 14 P A N P I P E S W hen I began my journey at American Band College (ABC), I was eager to further my skills as a band director by learning from the program's experienced faculty. From the age of eleven, I knew I would pursue a career in music. My instrument was trumpet, and it was rare to see female trumpet players at the time. roughout my studies, from University classes to attending music conferences, I couldn't help but notice how few females there really were in the field. I enrolled at ABC knowing that I would be playing under only male conductors. To be fair, it didn't bother me that my instructors were all going to me male; I was certainly used to that experience. However, a last-minute change in the ABC staff gave me the opportunity to consider a different point of view when Paula Crider stepped in to fill the empty position Admittedly, I did not know who she was at first. However, many of my colleagues were excited to be playing under her direction. e more I learned about her accomplishments as a band director, the more excited I became as well. Paula Crider inspired me to continue my education not just as a band director, but also as a female band director proudly representing my gender in the field. I learned that Paula Crider had taught for over 30 years in all levels of public education. She was the first female in Texas to serve as a director of bands at a 5-A class high school. Crider served as President for the American Bandmasters Association, as well as for the National Band Association. She inspired a new generation of band directors in clinics and lectures and has written numerous articles for e Instrumentalist, e Band Director's Guide, and the National Band Association Journal. I was so fortunate to play under her direction in the performing ensemble at ABC. I observed her lectures on conducting and rehearsal techniques. She taught conducting techniques and how to watch other conductors in order to develop our style. She emphasized Breaking Glass Breaking Glass Ceilings in Band Ceilings in Band Directing: Directing: Paula Crider Paula Crider CONDUCTING

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