Tom Jenner has been leading bands and influencing peers for over 30 years. His bands are a testament to what bands should sound like (his marching band sounds like a symphonic band on the field…while moving!). Every school Tom has gone to has been better at the end of his tenure. He knows how to teach. He teaches hard and he teaches strong…every day.
In retirement Tom has become more in demand as an adjudicator and clinician. He adjudicates for MPA and marching band festivals in multiple states. He clinics bands year round for band camps, MPA prep and even helps teach beginning students how to navigate first sounds on tuba. No level is out of Tom’s range or passion to do. When Tom comes in to work with a band, it’s like a director clinic. His tips, tricks, and techniques are tried and true. He never wants to take credit for them. “If you steal and idea from me and use it, it’s now your own. It’s yours and claim it.” I love that. I’ve stolen many things from Tom over the years and still use them to this day.
I often say I’ve had two student teaching placements. My first was during college. My 2nd was 10 years later when I team taught with Tom. I was good at being a band director…teaching with Tom showed me how to be better. He totally changed my ideas of how a band SHOULD sound. I’m very thankful for that time. Because of him, I’m better at my job.
To be able to teach and influence students and educators at such a high level for over 30 years (he’s still going strong) is proof that he should be included in the NC Bandmasters Hall of Fame.