Carrie Hester (she/her/hers) is the Director of Bands at Flowing Wells High School in Tucson, Arizona. A native of Springfield, Missouri, she has taught band from grades 6-12 in both Missouri and Arizona.
As an educator, Mrs. Hester hopes to encourage her students in pursuit of a lifelong, thoughtful engagement with the music around them. She is a firm believer that teaching music holistically, from history to technique to theory, is what leads to a lasting love of music and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Mrs. Hester holds both a Bachelor's of Instrumental Music Education and a Master's Degree in Wind Conducting from Missouri State University where she studied with Dr. John Zastoupil. She is an active clinician and adjudicator throughout Missouri and Arizona and maintains a private saxophone studio. When she's not doing band, Mrs. Hester enjoys hiking, reading, cooking and eating great food, traveling, and destroying her husband Andrew in Mario Kart.
We asked Carrie six questions about her life as a music teacher:
What Instrument Do You Play?
I started on piano, but my primary instrument is saxophone. I can also hang on clarinet and flute and I usually keep a piccolo on my stand just in case.
Best flavor of Pop Tart?
Absolutely brown sugar cinnamon, I truly didn't know this was up for debate!
Favorite Piece to Conduct?
This is a super tough question, Holst's First Suite in Bb is definitely a front runner, especially the end of the Chaconne. It's just so awesome!
Baton, Pencil, or just your hands?
Usually baton for me.
What Instrument do you WISH you knew how to play?
I'd say classical guitar! It's never too late!
Best piece of musical advice you’ve been given?
To not compare, but to just be your best. Super simple but has made a profound impact on how I enjoy my craft.
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