This session introduces artificial intelligence for music educators, showing how AI can enhance and transform instruction using the SAMR Model. Participants explore practical, classroom-ready examples and strategies that support learning without replacing best practices, leaving with concrete starting points and the confidence to integrate AI effectively into their teaching.
Gene Butler
- Biographical Information
Dr. Gene Butler currently serves as Director of Bands at Smiths Station High School and Adjunct Instructor of Music Education at Troy University. Dr. Butler earned his Bachelors and Masters degrees from Troy University and an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Leadership from Columbus State University. He was named the 2010 Outstanding Music Graduate of Troy University and credits Dr. Mark Walker, Dr. Larry Blocher, Mr. Ralph Ford, Mr. Robert W. Smith, and Dr. Rusty Courson as influential mentors.
Prior to Smiths Station, Dr. Butler served at Trinity Presbyterian School in Montgomery, where the band program grew from 39 to over 80 students and consistently earned superior ratings. During this time, he was named the 2015 Alabama Outstanding Young Music Educator of the Year.
Under Dr. Butler’s leadership, the Smiths Station Band Program has grown from 316 to over 550 students. The program includes five concert ensembles, marching band, visual ensembles, chamber groups, and three jazz bands. During the 2024-2025 school year, Dr. Butler was recognized as a Yamaha “40 Under 40” Music Educator, Smiths Station High School Teacher of the Year, Lee County Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year, and an inaugural member of the Troy University Fanfare Society of Distinguished Alumni.
In addition to his teaching roles, Dr. Butler is a music education writer for Yamaha, serves as President-Elect of the Alabama Bandmasters Association, and is an active clinician and adjudicator.