One of the most exciting parts of beginning band is teaching students how to read music for the first time. It can also be the most intimidating part for the students, as well. For many of our young musicians, this is their first real encounter with written music notation. It…
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Beginner Band Routines
When it comes to teaching elementary band, routines are the glue that holds the entire experience together. Sure, music is the focus. But without predictable structure, it’s easy for young musicians to get distracted, disorganized, or overwhelmed. Beginner band routines are the key to starting your students off with intent…
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Beginning Band: The First Five Weeks
A month ago, I had the opportunity to sit down at a professional development with other elementary band directors where we were talking about starting beginning band in the first five weeks. I was so happy that I could contribute to answering their questions and offer support. I started to…
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Practice Logs In The Band Room
As far as practice logs in the band room are concerned, I’ve been all over the place with them for the last few years. I’ve used them intermittently because I found many students would just check off the boxes and some parents will just sign without asking their child what…