When working with beginning instrumentalists, many music educators emphasize executive skills specific to the mechanics of playing an instrument. However, beginning students can also benefit from focused vocal instruction as a complement to their musical growth in the instrumental setting. Because instrumental music educators may feel ill equipped…

Improvisation-based exercises may be the key to unlocking students' innate musical creativities. This article focuses on two exercises--drone improvisation and circle stringing--that can be easily integrated into the orchestra curriculum and adapted to the learning needs of the individual student, small-ensemble, and large-ensemble settings. Of…

Early in my teaching career, my goals were to teach students to play their instruments beautifully and to help them correctly and independently interpret music notation. However, many of my students were missing the internal musicianship skills that enable high-level music-making. As we teach instrument technique and notation, we sometimes…

Describes a high school music program in which students form strolling performance groups. Explains that violinists, violists, and even cellists play as they stroll through audiences. Suggests that strolling strings programs benefit both students and teachers by providing opportunities for creativity and enhancing musical skills. Provides a list…

Paul Lehrman mentioned in Mix Magazine that school music programs, which traditionally have given students the precious opportunity to hear what real instruments sound like from both player's and listener's perspective, are in the toilet. Some within the profession have voiced similar concerns. K-12 music teachers have historically have had very…

Describes an individualized music reading program for middle school teachers. (Editor/RK)

Encourages the use of percussion ensembles in upper elementary and secondary general music classes because of their high motivational value, the ease of achieving performance, and the minimal need for music reading skills. Offers guidelines for introducing percussion ensemble music, including an annotated discography listing selections to…

Maintains that group keyboard instruction provides a positive, motivating environment for elementary music students. Asserts that keyboard instruction encourages students to try other instruments. Provides suggestions for using keyboards in lower and upper elementary classrooms. (CFR)