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Jo Jossim, a name synonymous with dedication and excellence in music education, recently achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first woman to be inducted into the Florida Bandmaster's Association's prestigious Roll of Distinction. 

Her journey as an educator and musician is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the art of music.

As we sat down with Dr. Jossim to delve into her inspiring story, she shared the pivotal moments and motivations that have guided her path.

Finding Her Passion

Jossim's journey into the world of music was set in motion by her mother's insistence on musical involvement. Her older sister had been a studious clarinet player, so, at ten, their mother placed a clarinet in Jo's hands two years before she would join ‘beginning band.’ 

"My older sister played the clarinet, and she was a typical overachiever, first chair All-County Band, made the auditioned All-State Bands all through high school — your typical nightmare for a younger sister trying to keep up," Dr. Jossim joked.

It was during a practice session though, in the solitude of her room, that lightning struck. Jossim vividly remembers the moment when she played a passage from a method book, and something profound moved inside her — an aesthetic response to the emotional power of music. In that instant, she realized that music had the unparalleled ability to evoke deep, indescribable emotions, and it became a personal sanctuary where she could connect with herself on a profound level.

"I could feel things I had no ability to describe, and it was deeply personal. Walking around as a 10-year-old, I was like any other kid. But with the clarinet, I could feel the world inside me- and it was all just for me," she explained.

Jo had found her passion.

Two years later, Jo's mother saw potential in her as an oboe player, and the clarinet was traded for an oboe. After beginning band, she received oboe lessons and never looked back. Music had captured her heart and soul, becoming a lifelong companion.

Defying Expectations

Dr. Jossim's journey took an unexpected turn while pursuing a master's degree in oboe performance at the University of Denver. While searching for an elective course, she stumbled upon Conducting and decided to try it. However, gaining permission to enroll in the class took work, as the conducting professor questioned her ability, being primarily an oboe player. Jossim impressed the professor by demonstrating her skills and was granted entry. Little did she know that this decision would be life-changing.

During the final assignment of the class, where students were tasked with conducting a piece with the university wind ensemble, Jossim found herself conducting "Propaglia" by Robert Linn. What followed was beyond her expectations. Impressed by her skill and passion, the gr