Phi Beta Mu, founded in 1938, is a non-political, non-profit honorary fraternity dedicated to honoring outstanding band directors. With approximately 320 active members in Texas and additional chapters in Canada, Brazil, and Poland, the organization upholds the highest standards in band education and mentorship.
To qualify for induction, candidates must have at least ten years of successful teaching experience, maintain a consistently outstanding band program, and demonstrate leadership in the profession.
Dr. Ryan Smith, Director of Fine Arts at Frenship ISD, and Phi Beta Mu member, praised Beth Ledbetter’s accomplishment, highlighting the significance of Phi Beta Mu membership.
“The long history of Phi Beta Mu is significant. The founders' ideals of honoring superior musical achievement, values of moral uprightness, and significance of leadership beyond the normal music educator make the membership extremely honorable,” said Dr. Smith. “Beth has been an amazing educator in West Texas for many years, and her dedication to the craft is evident from the quality musical experiences of her students and the leadership she shows to other directors.”
Dr. Smith emphasized that membership in Phi Beta Mu offers invaluable networking opportunities, professional development, and advocacy for music education.
“Being part of the fraternity provides opportunities for band directors to network with other professionals, share knowledge, and advance their own skills. The organization plays a key role in advocating for the importance of music education in schools and communities,” said Dr. Smith. “Phi Beta Mu fosters a sense of pride, camaraderie, and purpose among bandmasters and music educators, helping elevate the band profession and inspire future generations of musicians and educators.”
For Ledbetter, this recognition is deeply meaningful on both a professional and personal level.
“I was truly honored and astonished at first hearing of being inducted because I don’t see myself in the same caliber as many of the past honorees,” said Ledbetter. “I was a little awestruck reading through the names of members through the years, many of whom have been mentors since I was a beginning clarinetist in middle school band.”
Ledbetter’s induction also holds sentimental value, as she now joins her father, Cliff Franklin, in the fraternity.
“On a personal note, I am ecstatic to be honored alongside my father, Cliff Franklin, who was inducted many years ago before me. He helps teach many students across multiple campuses in Frenship ISD as well. It was a great honor to get to share this moment with him,” said Ledbetter.
She also expressed gratitude to her mentor and sponsor, June Bearden, who has supported her since high school.
“June Bearden, Phi Beta Mu International’s executive secretary and retired Frenship ISD band director, nominated me and has been a mentor since I was in high school. I am forever grateful for her mentorship at all stages of my career.”
Ledbetter’s dedication to her students is evident in her most cherished memories as a band director.
“My most recent memorable moment was taking the Heritage Wind Ensemble to Pre-UIL just last week and having the performance of a lifetime, or as the kids would say, ‘We cooked, Mrs. Ledbetter!’” she said.
Beyond performances, the impact she has on students lasts well beyond middle school.
“I also just ran into a former student who gave me a great big ol’ hug and said, ‘Thank you for everything, and I just finished learning Flight of the Bumblebee that you gave me in middle school!’”
Ledbetter sees her Phi Beta Mu membership as an opportunity to continue growing as an educator and mentor.
“Phi Beta Mu focuses on service as a contribution to the world of music education. This recognition reminds me to continue to serve all young musicians and music educators of all levels to the best of my ability, especially through mentorship of future band directors and young band directors.”
She also appreciates the global reach of the fraternity.
“I love that Phi Beta Mu is international, which reminds me most importantly that making music is truly universal.”
Frenship ISD celebrates Ledbetter’s induction into Phi Beta Mu and recognizes her dedication to music education. Her passion, leadership, and commitment to student success continue to make a big impact on Frenship’s band programs.