Join us for part 2 of our discussion of non-varsity band directing.

Join Bryn Roberts, an old friend and colleague, and me as we discuss tips and tricks for you assistant band directors out there.

In this episode I cover some basics regarding fundamental drill and how to make the most of it.

In this episode I talk about how to end your year strong.

In this episode we discuss the importance of having a handbook for your program and some of the things that make a handbook work.

The final episode in our series on saxophone.  I hope you enjoy it!

This is part 2 of the discussion between Dr. Todd Oxford and myself regarding tips for teaching saxophone.  I’ve decided to extend this recording into a part 3, so look for that next month.

Also, please send any questions for the Q&A episode to [email protected]

In this episode the incomparable Dr. Todd Oxford and I talk about some of the common tips and misconceptions involved in teaching young saxophonists.

Once you have a job, how do you get off to a great start? In this episode, I discuss a to do list for starting your new gig with a bang.

Once You Have the Job: a To-Do List

1. Summer letter of contact (introduce yourself, fire-up the kids, etc.)
2. Meet with supervising music teacher/principal
3. Insurance and permission forms for students
4. Handbook (trips, grading, parties, calendars, etc.)
5. Scale sheets/Fundamental sheet music
6. Teaching schedule (who meets when, team-teaching, etc.)
7. Recruiting dates confirmed
8. Supplies
9. Necessary work orders (blanks and turn in dates if available)
10. Budget information (keep detailed, organized records)
11. Decorations in room
12. Chairs and stands
13. Beginner appointments set-up (if instrument assignment is applicable)
14. Asessments
15. Student assignments to correct classes/rosters
16. Calendar approval
17. Goals set for each grade level
18. Select music for grades
19. Warm-ups/daily drill & method books
20. Instrument storage (if applicable)
21. School instrument assignments
22. Instrument back from summer repair (if applicable)
23. Inventory checked
24. Contacts with private lesson staff (if available)
25. Student officer meeting
26. Develop a seating chart (especially helpful for learning student names quickly)
27. Jazz band, Drumline, Twirlers, Flags, Show Choir, any other ensemble with special needs
28. Office in order
29. Phone numbers/Email addresses
30. Uniforms (Band shirts, concert uniform, marching uniform, $$, type, etc.)
31. Know your IEPs
32. Travel for Conventions (if applicable)
33. Grading policies
34. Attendance policies
35. Meet with music store rep/owner (if there is one nearby)
36. Fundraising

Welcome to our first mini-episode! In this quick talk I discuss 3 tips for both the concert stage and for the sight-reading room. I also hope to see many of you at TMEA this year. If you’re free, swing by the Texas State University booth in the exhibit hall on Friday between 1-2 or at college night from 5-6 and say hi!