The Directors Cut: Leading the Design Process as a Director - Part 1 - Discussion with RUHS Band Director Jeff Marchant

In this episode of the Copper State Marching Podcast, presented by the Arizona Marching Band Association (AMBA), hosts Martin Hebda and Aaron Vogel kick things off with a look at the busy spring season—concert festivals, WGI trips, regional events, and community band galas that bring hundreds of students together in celebration of music.

Then, we launch the first installment of our brand-new Director’s Cut Series: Leading the Design Process as a Director with special guest Jeff Marchant, longtime director at Rincon/University High School in Tucson.

Jeff shares insights into building a nationally respected program known for its distinctive style, professionalism, and community impact. From creating a unified brand identity on campus to balancing entertainment and competitive design, Jeff walks us through his collaborative show creation process—starting with a single piece of music and building outward with trusted staff and designers.

Highlights from the conversation include:

• How Rincon maintains a recognizable “style” year after year
• Blending crowd-pleasing favorites with challenging repertoire
• Incorporating jazz and swing authentically into field shows
• Designing with student strengths in mind
• Why Jeff values custom-designed shows over pre-packaged productions
• The role of humility, delegation, and hiring experts in sustaining a long-term career
• Why leadership development may be the most important thing his program teaches

Whether you're a director refining your design process or a band parent curious about what goes into building a show, this episode offers thoughtful, practical insights from one of Arizona’s most respected educators.

Stay tuned as the Director’s Cut Series continues with more outstanding leaders in marching arts design.

🎶 Listen in, get inspired, and celebrate the Arizona marching band community with us!