Dr. Brad Snow curates his teaching methods to help Missouri State University’s Pride Bands thrive. 

The associate professor and director of athletic bands leads using two tactics:  

• He draws from his experience in the Marine Corps Bands.  
• He adjusts his teaching style to meet his students’ needs. 

His methods have helped over 300 members of the Pride Band advance.  

Developing leaders 

Snow leads using Marine Corps principles to help his students become better performers and people.  

“The Marines use a manual called ‘Principles of Marine Corps Leadership,’” Snow said. “I went through it, found every mention of ‘Marine’ and replaced it with ‘band.’” 

To paraphrase one section from the manual: ‘Your appearance, attitude, physical fitness and personal example are all on display daily for the band members in your unit. Remember, your band members reflect your image!’ 

Overall, Snow maintains a strong chain of command and empowers his students with skills to, one day, become the teacher.  

Dr. John Zastoupil, associate professor and director of concert bands, supports Snow’s efforts to help students in their musical and personal development. 

“I think the most special thing about the band program is that we treat it like a family,” Zastoupil said. “Our purpose is that we’re here to build people.” 

Adapting with the times 

Snow helps his students improve by adjusting his teaching methods to accommodate their needs.  

“We have to keep up with what the students are into, make sure we’re kind of speaking their language.” 

For example, Snow transitioned from paper to electronic drill sheets and music in 2020. Students can easily see where to stand and what notes to play during their sessions through mobile apps.  

“We can make edits on drill, the students hit refresh on their app, and they automatically have the new coordinates,” Snow said.  

“It’s given us more flexibility to make changes, and students don’t have to deal with gigantic flip folders.” 

As his teaching style evolves, Snow still maintains the group’s strong sense of tradition. 

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