It is the start of a new school year that is full of hopes and possibilities. As I think about it, I am reminded of a question my dear friend, the remarkable string pedagogue Bob...

Why do our students quit instrumental music?  Well, we have all read studies that outline a vast number of causes, and I am sure they all contribute to the large number of...

At the start of your next class or rehearsal, simply write the following old Chinese proverb on the board: “Every truly great accomplishment is at first impossible.” Maybe one of...

We each strive to create an environment that is pleasant for our rehearsals. One that is safe and comfortable, where they sense those moments of success. A place where they are...

I’m sure we have all heard the wonderful quote of Abraham Maslow: “I suppose it is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail.” How...

One of my dear friends shared this story with me. It perfectly describes what all too often happens to students when practicing or rehearsing. Sadly, left unchecked, the problem...

If there were an Olympic Worrying Team, I would be the star! Look up worrying in the dictionary, and you will find a picture of me! So, I am no one to give advice about it, but I...

If you are looking for a book that is inspirational, validating, thought-provoking, and heartwarming, I sincerely recommend The Music Lesson, by five-time Grammy award winning...

Though the life-lesson we all learned as children that states that “sharing is caring” is sage wisdom and a great message for most of life, when it comes to sharing stands in...