Teaching students to practice is one of the most important (and overlooked) aspects of music instruction. When students are armed with effective techniques of individual practice, they become more efficient in the practice room and feel a sense of accomplishment that leads to consistent practice habits.
They Are What They Eat: Literature Selection
Does curriculum drive literature selection? Or does literature selection drive curriculum?
If choosing one option leaves you feeling a bit uncomfortable or dissatisfied, perhaps you’d agree that there is a two-way flow.
Creativity Workouts: Helping Students Build the Creative Muscles to Compose
“I couldn’t be a composer. I’m just not a creative person. It’s difficult to come up with good ideas!” Have you ever engaged in this kind of negative self-talk?
Composer Cues – Dragon Run by Chris M. Bernotas
Hear composers describe their creative process, offer teaching suggestions, and provide messages to performers in our Composer Cues series.
Music Professor Video Lessons Now Available in MakeMusic Cloud
We are thrilled to announce that MusicProfessor Level 1 Wind, String, and Percussion videos are now available to all of our MakeMusic Cloud subscribers!
MakeMusic is Thankful For…
Family, friends, new experiences, the opportunity to make and share music, there’s so much to be grateful for this year.
Festival Music in MakeMusic Cloud
What an exciting (and busy) time of year! No doubt you are deep into rehearsals for your December performances and then a well-deserved holiday break.
MakeMusic Cloud November 2022 Repertoire Update
Last month, MakeMusic Cloud (SmartMusic) added 19 interactive tracks to the Music Catalog. Continuous new repertoire updates are included with your regular subscription, adding further depth and value every month.
5 Keys to Success for the Small School Band Director
I firmly believe that the most rewarding career you can have is as a teacher, especially a band director in a small school.
Taking Care of Yourself Physically, Musically, Mentally, and Emotionally
This blog is adapted from an excerpt of Adrian Gordon’s new book, Note to Self.
Self-care is the most important guiding principle to have as a music educator.









