Sound Innovations has become an extremely popular method, due in part to its solid pedagogy, clear format, and availability in SmartMusic.
Using Scaffolding to Teach your Students Vibrato
In learning psychology, constructivism is a paradigm or worldview that states that learning is an active, constructive process.
7 Self-Care Strategies to Prevent Burnout
Cursory glances through music educator Facebook groups and online forums reveal the most poignant frustration in our profession: we are burning out as a profession.
SmartMusic Tools for Jazz and Improvisation
SmartMusic includes many top jazz method books and more than 500 jazz ensemble charts, from beginning to advanced levels. But great repertoire is just part of what SmartMusic has to offer, in terms of jazz and improvisation, to your students and program.
Blues-Based Warm Ups for the Jazz Ensemble
Blues represent a great way to warm up any jazz band. In addition to providing the foundation that jazz, rock, and rhythm and blues are built on, the blues progression is simple enough for beginners to explore.
See the Future of Sight Reading Today
When your students become strong sight readers, every aspect of their musicianship improves. Of course, developing strong sight readers requires practice – and great sight-reading exercises.
Searching for a Unicorn: Balance and Blend in Middle School Band
When I was describing the content of this article to a friend, she inadvertently suggested the title in her response; “Balance and blend for middle schoolers?
Articulation – the Diction in Instrumental Music
According to the musical My Fair Lady, a proper lady always enunciates (articulates) with the greatest facility and clarity.
The Jazz Band That Sings Together Swings Together
Tight rhythm and phrasing are hallmarks of any successful jazz ensemble. Singing is a great way to develop a collective sense of articulation and playing “in the pocket.” Singing through parts allows students to develop an aural sense of the music without the struggle of making it sound on their instrument.
Tuning Technology, Listening, and the Ancient Secret to Intonation
In our previous intonation post we shared tips on building a strong foundation (with proper embouchure and air support), ideas on harmonic and melodic intonation, and ways to help kids remember how to tune.