A baton is more than just a stick with a handle; it is a conductor’s instrument. On Thursday, June 24, 2011, we sat down with Phil Aguglia, a renowned band teacher and owner of PaGu Batons, the leader in custom, handmade conducting batons. Alongside host Jon Linker, we explored the evolution of batons, learned all about Phil’s quest to create the perfect baton, and took a tour around his workshop to learn more about the production process. Phil discussed the most important factors to consider when selecting a baton, why it’s crucial to have the proper fit, and shared some of his favorite stories from decades of creating customized batons for some of the world’s most prestigious conductors. Watch Encore Live: Finding Your Perfect Baton We hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of Encore Live. Although we do not have any upcoming events planned at this time, we are constantly looking for interesting new topics to cover, so please check out our upcoming schedule for the latest updates on all of our Encore Live events. Our new policy enhancements, like the Worry-Free Guarantee, make it easier than ever to register for a 2022 tour! Interested in learning more? Contact us to speak directly with one of our Tour Consultants.
January 12, 2026 David Solar Meet Us at TMEA 2026 in San Antonio We are excited to share that this year we will once again be attending the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Clinic and Convention in San Antonio. Backstage Blog
January 6, 2026 Encore Tours Encore Experiences: Behind the Curtain in Ireland The next chapter in our “Behind the Curtain” series, created for travelers who seek artistry, culture, and connection in every note. Backstage Blog
December 15, 2025 David Solar Join Us at the 2026 Jazz Educators Network Conference in New Orleans The 2026 Jazz Educators Network Conference is just around the corner, taking place January 7–10 in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Backstage Blog