The other day, I saw a sign that asked, “What’s something you’ve been meaning to try but just haven’t gotten around to?” And it got me thinking and asking myself...

Though I doubt we could ever agree on the hardest aspects of being a teacher, I think overcoming a student’s feeling that a goal is impossible, simply because they haven’t...

I am often asked by teachers for recommendations of books to read. And though that list is very long, one of my favorites is a book by Ronald Gross entitled, “Socrates’ Way.” I...

Before school, write these words on the board. Just as you start a class or rehearsal, walk over to the board, tap on it, and point to the words. Then, just look at them and nod...

Getting an ensemble to phrase where we tell them to is pretty simple. But getting them to really understand the concept of phrasing can be challenging. For them to truly make...

I once heard my dear friend and renowned string educator, Bob Phillips, say five words that left me speechless with their simple, yet absolutely undeniable power. He said, “What...

I love quotes. And of all the quotes I have ever read or heard about teaching, these simple, yet profound words of William Butler Yeats always find their way to the top of my...

I believe that students should mark every single breath they will take in every piece they play. I know that sounds crazy and a bit like busywork, but here’s why: To remove the...