#233. Isolate To Conquer

#233. Isolate To Conquer

One of the most important aspects of a good warm-up exercise is that it isolates the concept being addressed. So often I hear an ensemble play an exercise that is meant to help teach balance, blend, intonation, dynamics, and articulation all at the same time. An...
#232. The “P Word”

#232. The “P Word”

Though we all know the incredible value of doing warm-up and ensemble development exercises with our ensembles, when I ask teachers why they don’t spend more time doing them, the answer is most often one word: percussion. The recurring question is, “What do I do with...
#231. Make A Game Of It

#231. Make A Game Of It

Some years ago, I noticed that I had developed a bad habit on the podium. I was using the word “okay” all the time. It drove me nuts. I’m guessing it drove my students nuts too. I just couldn’t stop myself. I tried putting sticky notes on my...
#230. Stop The Wrenching Necks

#230. Stop The Wrenching Necks

So often, I walk into band rooms and see vast numbers of necks wrenching to see the conductor. Those poor students all trying to get a glimpse of their teacher by slumping, turning, twisting, bending, and contorting their heads, necks, and bodies in an effort to watch...
#229. “Healthy Insecurity”

#229. “Healthy Insecurity”

My last blog referenced basketball superstar Stephen Curry. And though I have the athletic prowess of a houseplant, watching what this phenomenal player can do is like watching the laws of science being suspended before your very eyes. What he can do defies...