Episode 234 – Teaching 2 Levels of Band in the Same Classroom

Having both beginners and intermediate students in the same class at the same time is not ideal, but it can be done. In this epiosde I share some tips on how you can make it work. Have a question for the podcast? Need a presenter for professional development? Contact me here:  jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. Get my FREE …

Episode 233 – Tips for Reed Selection – Clarinet and Sax

When suggesting reeds for sax and clarinet players, should you choose Vandoren, Rico, some other brand? What strength reed should you start students on? What reed should you avoid? Have a question for the podcast? Need a presenter for professional development? Contact me here:  jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. Get my FREE TRAINING, 7 Tips To Save 5 Hours This …

Episode 232 – Staying Organized

Do you struggle with staying organized? In this episode, I share some strategies that may be helpful… Have a question for the podcast? Need a presenter for professional development? Contact me here:  jamesthedivine@gmail.com or 719-238-4193. Get my FREE TRAINING, 7 Tips To Save 5 Hours This Week and Every Week Subscribe in iTunes  Free Smooth Jazz Music Has …

Episode 231 – Setting Boundaries and Saying No Nicely

Remember Nancy Reagan’s theme from the 1980s to Just Say No to drugs? She was made fun of, but it is an effective strategy. You may not struggle with drugs, but I bet you do struggle with saying no! When you say yes youre saying no to something else. Many miss the great doing the good …

Episode 228 – Interview with Scott Watson

You have got to listen to this fantastic interview with Scott Watson! Scott is an experienced music teacher and composer. Besides his wonderful works like “Aesop’s Fables: The Tortoise and the Hare, Extraordinary Machines of Clockwork and Steam,” and more, Scott has created tons of FREE resources to aid in your teaching. Check out his …

Episode 222 – Choosing Quality Wind Literature

Here are a few things I have learned about selecting music for wind band… Ability Level of the Ensemble You Direct:  A piece of music may be the greatest creation ever made, but if it is too difficult for the students to play, they will become discouraged.

Episode 221 – Tube Socks, Giants, and a Teacher’s Trust

Have you ever had a teacher say or do something that had a huge impact on you for your entire life? I have had many of these opportunities. Some teachers affect you in a negative way. I’ve had my share of those. Most of my teachers had huge, positive impacts on my life. My seventh …

Episode 219 – Interview with Jennifer and Kris – Creators of Baton Sync

Have you ever looked into a software management system for your band, one that can help you track inventory, budgets, uniforms, finances, lockers, ensemble lists and more? If so, you know how expensive it can be. Husband and wife team Jennifer (band teacher) and Kris (software developer) have joined forces to create an inexpensive solution …