Reply To: Beginning band pull out advice

[nafmeadmin]

Rob,

I am a music education major at Kent State University, and we have discussed the pull-out method for younger students in my methods courses this past semester. I was just wondering if you could provide me with some more insight as to how exactly your program works. Do you typically meet with all woodwinds and all brass in separate periods? Or do you split up the periods so you only work with one section during their small group lesson times? Also, how have you found the pull-out method to be more effective than having a large group rehearsal? I understand how pulling students out in the beginning stages of learning music can make it easier on both the students and the teacher, but how does this effect their large ensemble playing as whole in the long run? Or does it not? I have never heard of a pull-out method until this year, and I am very intrigued by the idea behind it. As music programs are being cut, I feel this is a possible situation I will be faced with when I am teaching in the public schools. If you could provide me with any insight on your program, I would greatly appreciate it!

Thanks so much!
Sammy