New Job Jitters, Part 2
You’ve visited the school and gathered some background information. There’s still more preparation to do. A preview of relevant books is helpful, but avoid burying yourself in them. Set aside…
Category: Band Education
New Job Jitters, Part 1
You’ve accepted your first job. Then it dawns on you that your training is missing an important part: What do you do to prepare before school starts? Go to…
Unsolved Mysteries: Oboe, Part 3
Hand Position Fingering combinations can be difficult. Fingers and hands should be relaxed to be successful in technical passages. The fingers should make small movements and stay close to the…
Unsolved Mysteries: Oboe, Part 2
Reeds and embouchure are critical to a good oboe sound. MENC member Kristin Polk shares some tips. Purchasing Reeds It is best to buy reeds that are handmade by an…
Unsolved Mysteries: Oboe, Part 1
The world of oboe is challenging. It is condensed into a frustrating semester of instrumental methods class. Then on your first day of teaching a student asks, “Why won’t this…
Shared Wisdom
A recent NAfME Poll of the Month ask members, “As the new school year begins, what one resource, tip or word of encouragement/wisdom would you share with fellow music educators?”…
"They Like the Old Teacher Better" Syndrome
Your first year is often the hardest, and following a band director the community liked can be even harder. Because what you’re doing isn’t the way it was done before,…
Face Your First Festival Fluster
Your first festival is an exciting opportunity. Avoid miscommunication and intimidation factors. Prepare yourself and your band mentally for the experience. Get in touch with colleagues. Call local directors and…
