Reply To: Elementary general music teacher moved to high school band

[nafmeadmin]

Is your HS band program involving lessons or just ensembles? In my experiences, elementary band is much more INSTRUMENT minded and high school band is ENSEMBLE minded. Most high schoolers know how to play their instrument sufficiently and seek private lessons outside of school if they wish to progress further. I would read some ensemble building books and go out and observe as many different high school ensemble rehearsals as possible. I’ve learn tons more from watching other teachers-way more than any book or course could teach. Check youtube for ensemble rehearsals and even ask to Skype with teachers!

You can make some “cheat sheets” for yourself with instrument tunings, fingerings, transposing, etc. to have handy when questions arise.

One HUGE thing could be to have a good assessment of the level of playing from students that will be continuing next year and try to pre-select some music. Pick music on the easier side for your first semester and know the score inside and out. That will give you more confidence being in an uncomfortable position and it will also give the students confidence that you are striving to give your best.