This session explores collaborative methods for ensemble rehearsals, sectionals, and private lessons to enrich student learning. Directors will gain practical strategies for engaging students in real-time performance analysis, guiding personalized practice, and empowering students in innovative ways. Discover new approaches to make rehearsals more dynamic and effective with the Beam Music app.
Josh Gall
- Biographical Information
Josh Gall is co-founder of Ultimate Drill Book, a technology-driven music education company that builds tools for students and educators around the world.
Leading the direction of the company with his brother and co-founder, Luke, Josh has helped establish Ultimate Drill Book products as the leading technologies relied upon by thousands of high schools, colleges, and drum corps globally.
While leading the growth of Ultimate Drill Book, Josh also held appointments on the faculty of The University of Texas at Austin. During his time at UT, Josh served as Assistant Director of Bands where he helped lead the athletic bands and concert ensembles while teaching academic courses in instrumental conducting, marching band methods, and wind literature.
Prior to his appointment at The University of Texas at Austin, Josh served as a Doctoral Conducting Associate at The University of Florida as well as taught in the public schools of Virginia and Florida. His extensive background in the marching arts has allowed him to work with the ten-time DCI World Champion Cadets Drum Corps, Genesis Drum Corps, and the Bluecoats Drum Corps where he is currently on staff.
A native of central Virginia, Josh received his Bachelor of Music Education Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and the Master of Music Degree from The University of Florida in Instrumental Conducting where his primary conducting teachers were Dr. Terry Austin, Professor Daniel Myssyk, and Dr. David Waybright.
Reid Atkinson serves as the Director of Education for Ultimate Drill Book where he helps guide education initiatives and develops resources for band directors. In addition to his work with UDB, Reid serves as an active designer, arranger, and clinician for performance groups across the United States, most notably Carolina Crown.
Prior to transitioning out of the classroom, he served as the Marching Director at Vista Ridge High School. In addition to overseeing the marching program, his teaching responsibilities included conducting the Wind Symphony and coordinating the student leadership program. During his time at Vista Ridge, the Ranger Band continued its long history of success. Notable highlights include being named the 2018 UIL 6A State Champions as well as finalists at BOA Austin, medaling at the San Antonio Super Regional, and being named BOA Grand National Finalist.
He resides in Leander, TX, with his wife Alison and his two children, Ainsley and Paxton.