Yankee Collection Music Teacher Blog
Music Teacher Blog: A collection of tips and tactics I’ve learned from almost 40 years as a music teacher in public schools.
What I’ve Learned About Playing Music Alone – Pro’s and Con’s
Young beginner students love to play in ensembles of all sizes ranging from duets with their BFFs to full size concert bands to marching...
Backup Music, A Work of Art
Did you ever hear someone exclaim “I hate that song that’s playing” while you are thinking “Wow, I love it!”? Ok, why do you...
From Hearing to Playing: The Technology That Goes Into Performing a Song
I am truly amazed with how technology has become such an integral part of my personal and professional life. After teaching school for thirty...
My Musical Journey – From Nature to Nurture to Passion
As I look back, I’m not sure if nature or nurture played a more important role in my life of music. It all started...
Should Private Music Teachers Play Along with Students?
Some parents have complained that I shouldn’t play my instrument during lessons while other parents express their appreciation for my participation. Actually there are...
Preparing For Your “First” First Band Concert
If you are a new elementary band teacher right out of college, buckle your seatbelt for a bunch of firsts and that includes your...
Elementary Band Song Suggestions from January to June
In my previous blog I presented some elementary band song suggestions for the first half of the school year using the Yankee Collection as...
Monthly Song Suggestions for Your Elementary Band
Recently, in my last blog I suggested that you start planning your elementary band program for the next school year right now. Here are...
Learning patterns in music is like learning to talk.
In a previous blog I emphasized having a goal or an objective for learning short phrases, rhythms or patterns ….. mainly to successfully play...
Chamber Music Revived: Play Music With Your Family Year-Round
Happy New Year! I hope 2018 went well for you and the holidays also were happy. Now, after the parties and your hangovers have...
Loud Or Soft: How Important are Dynamics in Music
How loud can you play? Ok how soft can you play? How important are dynamics in music? Are you stuck in the middle? Any...
Music: The Ultimate Time Filler for Elementary Classrooms
Every elementary classroom teacher (at least in the United States) is required to have up to date lesson plans including materials needed with goals...