Educational Articles

Tim presenting the CEO of NAMM a Division of Education jacket.

Being A Music Advocate
   Tim Lautzenheiser

While it is vitally important to share the good news about music learning with every facet of our society, the key people are those who are the decision-makers, the folks who have the wherewithal to influence curriculums, schedules, and the academic agenda of our schools. This issue will focus on how to address this "target market."

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Students performing in a band.

Choosing And Developing Student Leaders
   Dr. Frank Tracz

Learn how with better planning and preparation, the better the band experience for all will be.

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Matthew Arau talking with a student.

Connecting Through Vulnerability
   Dr. Matthew Arau

Why do students love music class? Because it fulfills their greatest needs—connection, love, and belonging. As we return to our campuses this month, let’s try to be a little more vulnerable and connect at a new level.

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Students performing in a performance band.

Creating Positive Classroom Behavior
   Tim Lautzenheiser

More than any other area of study, one individual with a negative attitude will influence everyone involved in a music class/rehearsal. an individual with a sorrowful attitude can severely impede the advancement of the group; a musical organization is only as strong as its weakest member.

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David Vandewalker explaining to the classroom.

Enrichment Experiences For The Music Classroom
   Dr. David Vandewalker

Learn about several enrichment experiences educators may want to explore incorporate relevant, real-life connection points including composer days, composition consortiums, guest artists, and concert camps.

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Students looking out above a mountaintop.

Helping Students Reach the Mountaintop
   Dr. Matthew Arau

I believe one of the reasons we become teachers is so that we can help our students reach their full potential. As we gain experience and develop as educators, we learn new methods and strategies to help our students gain success. However, we all have felt disappointment when a student gives up before reaching the top of the mountain. 

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Tim discussing with the attendees at the Conn-Selmer Institute.

It's All About Time!
   Tim Lautzenheiser

Time management, now there's a subject worth some time. It's time to discuss this important element of success?

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Alt Tag Again!

Keep the Flame Lit
   Dr. Matthew Arau

The first days of the school year are an opportunity for a fresh start, a new beginning, and an opportunity to once again ignite the flame for music. As music teachers we devote our lives to share our love for and knowledge of music with our students.

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Frank Troyka discussing career paths with college students at the Conn-Selmer Institute.

Levels of Thinking
   Mr. Frank Troyka

When conditions are right, people are susceptible to influence, and there are observable behaviors that can help us, the teachers, as well as our student leaders, understand how to interpret and alter those conditions, and to help others begin to lead themselves.

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Dr. Wendy McCallum article about teaching music improvisation

Preparing a Framework for Improvisation
   Dr. Wendy McCallum

Teaching and learning are complex human endeavors, and the study of music in ensemble settings requires qualified specialists who are passionate about the value of music-making. As such, music educators require expertise in the performance of music and in general education. Rich pre-service experiences develop qualified educators who are ready to address student learning and to dive into productive rehearsals and performances. In order to address the individual needs of students, music teachers study...

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