Seth Banwell
Newton
Summary
Experienced and dedicated instrumental music educator with over 22 years of teaching. Known for building strong relationships with students, developing marching band programs, and motivating students to reach their highest potential. Seeking an opportunity to contribute my musical expertise and leadership to a dynamic band program.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Middle School Band Director
Newton Community School District
Newton
08.2024 - Current
- Directed 7th and 8th grade instrumental music, achieving exceptional student retention and growth each year.
- Provided individual instruction on various instruments including woodwinds, brass, percussion, and keyboards.
- Led large ensembles, including the Berg Middle Jazz Band, which consistently exceeded expectations and had between 40 and 60 students participating.
- Cultivated a safe, positive, and engaging classroom environment with a focus on respect, collaboration, and personal growth.
- Guided students to succeed in competitive settings, including solo and ensemble contests, the South Central Iowa Bandmasters Association (SCIBA) District Honor Band, and the All-Iowa 8th Grade Honor Band.
- Coordinated and accompanied a large number of students at Solo and Ensemble Contest every year.
- Designed and wrote marching band drill for the Newton High School Cardinal Regiment, contributing to creative and competitive performances.
- Communicated regularly with parents and staff to keep them informed of students' progress and band events.
Bus Driver
Newton Community School District
Newton
08.2022 - Current
- Operated bus safely, adhering to traffic laws.
- Ensured that the bus is in good working condition by performing daily inspections before and after routes.
- Facilitated safe boarding and exiting of students from the bus.
- Monitored student behavior during the ride to ensure it is safe, respectful, appropriate, and corrected any behavior problems.
- Maintained clear communication with parents and school staff about any issues related to the bus route, or student behavior.
- Stayed on schedule and ensured that students were picked up and dropped off at designated times and locations.
Brass Instructor
Colts Drum and Bugle Corps
Dubuque
11.2001 - 08.2004
- Guided players on breathing, articulation, embouchure, and tonguing techniques.
- Led sectionals to enhance brass players' collective sound, articulation, and timing.
- Guided brass players on dynamics and phrasing to match artistic vision of the corps.
- Coordinated efforts with various corps sections for seamless integration of brass in ensemble.
- Supported players in adopting techniques to reduce risk of strain or injury.
Drum Major
Colts Drum and Bugle Corps
Dubuque
11.2000 - 08.2001
- Led the corps during performances and rehearsals.
- Led the ensemble to maintain rhythmic and visual unity.
- Facilitated rehearsal processes, guiding corps through correct drill movements.
- Helped maintain discipline, focus, and energy during long rehearsal hours.
- Facilitated communication among corps members, staff, and directors.
- Relayed instructions from staff to performers clearly and efficiently.
- Boosted team morale, inspiring performers to stay motivated.
- Ensured members kept a compelling presence during performances.
Education
Master of Science - Effective Teaching And Instructional Leadership
Buena Vista
Storm Lake, IA05-2011
Bachelor of Arts - Instrumental Music Education
Central College
Pella, IA05-2002
High School Diploma -
Newton High School
Newton, IA05-1998
Skills
- Instrumental music instruction
- Student engagement and motivation
- Pedagogical strategies
- Collaboration with staff
- Behavior management
- Performance organizer
- Student relationship-building
- Marching band drill writer
- Student performance assessment
- Parent communication
- Piano accompanist
- Organist
Affiliations
- Coaching high school bowling and tennis
- Pianist/Organist
- Tuning Pianos
- Spending time with family
- Amusement park enthusiast
- Nintendo fanatic
- LEGOS
- Watching football (Go HAWKS!)
Accomplishments
- Newton Community Education Foundation Outstanding Teacher Award recipient (2023-2024)
- Guided multiple students who have been accepted into the prestigious groups like the SCIBA District Honor Band and the All-Iowa 8th Grade Honor Band
- Received Division 1 ratings, placed runner up, and also Best in Class at Adventureland Festival of Bands.
- Led 11 bowling teams to compete at the state tournament. In recognition of my success, I was honored as the District Coach of the Year (2016-2017) by the Iowa Girls' Coaches Association.
- Awarded the Cox Snow Scholarship (top scholarship) at Central College
- Won the 2000 Concerto Aria Competition at Central College
Timeline
Middle School Band Director
Newton Community School District
08.2024 - Current
Bus Driver
Newton Community School District
08.2022 - Current
Brass Instructor
Colts Drum and Bugle Corps
11.2001 - 08.2004
Drum Major
Colts Drum and Bugle Corps
11.2000 - 08.2001
Master of Science - Effective Teaching And Instructional Leadership
Buena Vista
Bachelor of Arts - Instrumental Music Education
Central College
High School Diploma -
Newton High School
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