Have you ever had a student lie on a practice record? Would you like to see your students become more independent in their at home practice? It’s safe to assume the answer to both questions is a resounding “YES!” and that’s where the Big IDEA comes in. IDEA is an acronym designed to help teach ... Read More about Practicing with Purpose – What’s the Big IDEA?
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THE TUNING TACKLE BOX: Reeling In Your Horn Section’s Intonation
We have chosen a fishing theme for this article not only because it is fun and unique but also because tuning, like fishing, requires patience, appropriate tools, and knowledge of the environment. A successful fisherman/fisherwoman has a well-stocked tackle box and is familiar with all the available ... Read More about THE TUNING TACKLE BOX: Reeling In Your Horn Section’s Intonation
College Years – What Was Left Out
“You don’t know what you don’t know” is a saying that accurately describes the first years of teaching. Truth is, some of us had no clue what we were getting into. With such a full schedule in college, it makes it nearly impossible to get adequate experience leading a band, and let’s face it ... Read More about College Years – What Was Left Out
First Year Band Director Survival Guide (Great for Student Teachers Also!)
If you're a first (or second or third) year band director, this is for you! Organized by subject, this gives you a quick start to researching any topic you'll need during your school year. If you'd like a printable version for yourself or to share with colleagues or student teachers, you can ... Read More about First Year Band Director Survival Guide (Great for Student Teachers Also!)
Recruiting & Retaining Minority Student Musicians
Before I transitioned to higher education, I spent 10 years as a middle school and high school band director in Title I schools. When I began teaching, one struggle I had to address was low enrollment. By empowering my students and collaborating with parents, administrators, and community partners, ... Read More about Recruiting & Retaining Minority Student Musicians
Making the Most of Listening
Great recordings--are you using them in your teaching? We are fortunate to have a wealth of high-quality band recordings that are easy to obtain. Probably every director would agree that if their students listen to great compositions played by awesome concert bands, they will play better. However, ... Read More about Making the Most of Listening
6 Benefits of Adding Rhythm Ear Training to Your Band Curriculum
According to Wikipedia, "Ear training (or aural skills) is a music theory study in which musicians learn to identify pitches, intervals, melody, chords, rhythms, solfeges, and other basic elements of music, solely by hearing. The application of this skill is analogous to taking dictation in ... Read More about 6 Benefits of Adding Rhythm Ear Training to Your Band Curriculum
