Recruitment & Retention
Thoughts From A Recovering Band Nitwit
Full Disclosure: I was “that kid” in the back, planting giggle-worthy ideas in other kids' heads. It’s the blessing/curse of being a low brass player. I was a decent young...
Fast Forward: Student Reflections on School Band | Movement 1: Personal Growth
Five years ago, Jupiter filmed a commercial with an enthusiastic group of middle school band students. As they neared completion of their senior year in high school, we visited...
Recruit The Next Generation of Band Members Through Pre-Band
Imagine that your students in beginning band show up on the first day of class with some basic instrumental skills including embouchure, air support, and knowledge of instrument...
Music Educator Back to School “Toolbox”
Welcome to a new school year; another year to share the gift of music. If this is your first year teaching, congratulations, and thank you for committing yourself to a...
A Summer Practice Plan To Launch Your Students Into The Fall
A note to my favorite people in the world (MUSIC TEACHERS!!!):The guide below is aimed at middle or high school musicians. It is an effort to help them learn to...
3 Reasons Why Now — More Than Ever — America Needs Music in its Schools
For the first time ever, music is now cited in federal statute as a stand-alone subject in schools.The timing could not be better. After all, provision for...
Why Scheduling More Performances Will Save Your Child’s Musical Life (and Your Music Program)
We are a few months into a new school year. Has your child had a performance yet?When students open their instrument case for the first time, they are excited...
How Parents Can “Reboot” Their Child’s Interest in Playing a Musical Instrument After Taking Summer Off
Most parents and students start the summer with the best intentions as far as instrumental music practice is concerned. Some families choose to rent their...
A Beginning-of-Year Welcome Letter to New Music Parents
Dear Parents:It is with great excitement that I welcome your family to our instrumental music program!Learning to play a musical instrument and acquiring the unique...