Meet the Team
Martin Hebda
Arizona State and Region Coordinator
Martin Hebda’s passion for music began while growing up in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He started his musical journey at the piano before discovering the trumpet and quickly became deeply involved in both school and community music programs. During his high school years, Martin marched with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps in 1992 and 1993.
After graduating, Martin pursued a degree in music education at the University of Arizona where he was an active member of numerous ensembles including small brass groups, vocal ensembles, jazz ensemble and wind ensemble. He also participated in marching band and pep band, further shaping his well-rounded musical background.
Martin has dedicated 28 years to teaching music and is currently in his 25th year as band director at Casa Grande Union HS. Under his leadership, the band program has grown significantly in both size and quality. A strong advocate for professional involvement, Martin has been deeply engaged with music education organizations throughout Arizona. He served eight years on the WGAZ Board as AIA Liaison, Show Host Coordinator and Vice President. Additionally, he served as the Arizona Music Educators Association (AMEA) Southeast Regional Governor for six years and as AMEA Member at Large for four years. His service also included roles as an ABODA New Teacher Mentor and Vice President of the AZMBA.
In recognition of his dedication and leadership, Martin received the AMEA George C. Wilson Leadership/Service Award and was inducted into the WGAZ Hall of Fame in the spring of 2014.
IBeyond music, Martin places the highest value on family. His wife, Mercedes, taught color guard for his marching bands until the birth of their third child in 2011 and returned to teaching color guard in 2025. Her understanding of the demanding schedule of a band director has been a constant source of support throughout Martin’s career. Maintaining a healthy balance between family life and professional responsibilities remains a top priority for him.
Martin has traveled to Europe with performing ensembles seven times between 2007 and 2019 and returned as the Musicians Abroad Arizona State Coordinator in the summer of 2025. He firmly believes in the educational and artistic value of these experiences and is committed to providing students with exceptional performance and travel opportunities.
Meet an MA Representative
Will you be at one of Music for All/Bands of America Championship events? Attending Midwest Clinic or an MEA conference in Texas, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Arizona, Kentucky or another state? These are just a few of the events where you can meet an MA Representative, learn about our company and create a Musicians Abroad tour from your state or region.
The Trip Account app is offered to our groups as they travel.
Included in your trip, group leaders, staff, chaperones and travelers will use the information packed, versatile Trip Account App during their travels.
Powerful Director Tools
Interactive Checklists, Pop Up Communications, Emergency Notifications.
Tools for all travelers
Live Itineraries, Group Messaging, Photo Gallery and much more.
Everything you need for your next trip.
The Trip Account app is available for iPhone and Android.
Blog Posts

Ohio Student Musicians to Showcase Talents Across Europe in Summer 2026
In an exciting cultural exchange initiative, talented high school musicians from the state of Ohio are being recruited for a transformative performance journey across Europe in 2026.... learn more

Darrin Davis to Lead Ozark Region International Tour
Musicians Abroad is excited to announce the Ozark Region as our newest ensemble for 2026. Led by Coordinator Darrin Davis... learn more

“Priceless”: A Family’s Experience Traveling with Musicians Abroad
For the French family, Musicians Abroad provided an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow and explore — together. Willa, French horn player, Stuart, trumpet player.... learn more

Let’s Get Physical – Preparing for Your Tour
Being on tour for a couple of weeks is full of amazing adventures, wonderful performances and lots of fun! The trip will be both exhilarating and exhausting... learn more

Kentucky Musicians Abroad Delights Crowds in Europe
More than 360 musicians, 40 faculty members and staff, parents and a crew of tour directors made up... learn more

The Trip of a Lifetime – Traveling with Indiana Musicians Abroad
This no-fee personal fundraising option transfers 100% of collected financial gifts directly into your trip account, providing you with the gift of travel... learn more

Introducing Gift Link
This no-fee personal fundraising option transfers 100% of collected financial gifts directly into your trip account, providing you with the gift of travel... learn more

Traveling with Indiana Musicians Abroad
Eight countries. Sixteen days. Musicians Abroad celebrated its inaugural international performance tour in June 2023... learn more

McCormick Joins Musicians Abroad as Senior Director
McCormick is a respected and trustworthy leader with more than 30 years of experience... learn more

Speck, Hatteberg Co-Direct Kentucky Group
Two well-traveled, respected educators and musicians head first Kentucky musicians abroad tour... learn more

Introducing Musicians Abroad
Created for students wanting to share the joy of music internationally... learn more

Taylor steps up as Indiana Coordinator
Chris Taylor has traveled across the country as well as overseas. It only seems natural that he would be the leading force in organizing the first Musicians Abroad tour... learn more
