In last week’s blog, I offered some thoughts about common issues that arise when rehearsing a full orchestra. What follows are other problems that we often encounter when we...

Every band director is aware of the usual concerns when refining a wind band performance. Likewise, every string teacher is familiar with the stumbling blocks of producing a...

Most anything used once has an impact. But used too often, and that very same thing loses its intensity and power. Basically, the more we see or hear something, the more we tend...

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...

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...

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....

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,...

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...

I recently heard an interview with basketball legend Stephen Curry. He described his less-than-stellar start as a player, reminding listeners that he had thirteen turnovers in...