Category: Educator Resources

Symphony Orchestra Competition

Preparing for Music Competitions

A Guide to Music Competition Mastery and Confidence Spring is quickly approaching, which means it’s time for us to tune into a topic that resonates with many of our dedicated musicians: preparing for music competitions. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or gearing up for your first competition, this guide is composed to help you orchestrate […]

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Celebrating the Rhythms of Life with Terry Koger

In the spirit of Black History Month, Music & Arts is honored to shine a spotlight on Terry Koger’s story, a tale not merely of notes and rhythms but of passion and the transformative power of education. Our conversation with Terry not only peels back the layers of his personal music education journey but also […]

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Jason Ferrell Music

Harmonizing Passion and Education: A Conversation with Jazz Maestro Jason Ferrell 

Delve into the world of jazz with Jason Ferrell, a distinguished educational representative based in Columbus, Ohio. With a life steeped in music and an unwavering passion for jazz, Jason shares his journey, influences, and insights into the art of jazz education.  Jason’s Musical Beginnings Born and raised in Columbus, Jason’s musical journey began with […]

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Music Student Learning

Upgrade Your Sound for the Ride of Your Life

By Dr. David W. Vandewalker For most of my childhood I had two passions: music and bikes. I would wake up excited to go to school because I enjoyed hanging out with my friends. I would jump on my bike riding to my friend’s house; together we would zoom off to school. It was always […]

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Playing Keyboard

The Transformative Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument

From the resonant chords of a guitar to the gentle melody of a piano, music has a profound impact on our lives. While being a devoted listener can bring joy and solace, there’s something truly magical about playing an instrument.   Beyond the enchantment of producing beautiful sounds, the benefits of this pursuit extend far […]

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Music Composers

A History of Influential Music Composers

Behind every melody that stirs our souls and every harmony that transports us to another realm lies the genius of a music composer. Composers are architects of sound, crafting masterpieces that define and transcend eras. In this post, we will explore the lives and works of some of the most influential music composers, individuals whose […]

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Yamaha HD-300

The Yamaha HD-300 Harmony Director: A Powerful Tool Designed for Music Educators

The Yamaha HD-300 Harmony Director is a powerful tool. Designed specifically to help music educators more effectively instruct ensembles. The HD-300 helps educators teach intonation and rhythmic training using a variety of features and training tools including recording/playback, a hold button for hands-free resonant drones, and an improved user-friendly interface for an easier and more […]

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Picture of students playing instruments.

How To Talk To Parents About Step Up Instruments

Tips and resources for how to talk to parents about stepping up from a beginner instrument to an intermediate or advanced one.

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Three Tips for Introducing Improvisation to Your Students

Introducing improvisation is one of the most important exercises a music educator can share with their students. Whereas drills, sight-reading exercises, and playing through sheet music develops a budding music student’s discipline and technique, improvisation is vital because it prioritizes and celebrates their creativity. When music educators don’t take improvisation seriously, students miss out on […]

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Jazz Improvisation with Creative Essential Elements

by John Kuzmich, Jr., Ph.D. Computers, tablets, smartphones, DVDs. CDs are all great learning tools.  Let’s look at how our students can maximize learning and fun in their jazz playing experience.  Perhaps the most user-friendly, interactive practice experience is with new and improved play-along recordings.  Digital innovations have lifted old drill-n-practice play-alongs into great improvisation […]

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