This is the time of year when third graders contemplate taking the plunge into instrumental music. I had the pleasure of observing one elementary music teacher’s exceptional approach to introducing the beginning band options of flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and snare drum. Her best advice regarding which instrument to choose, had little to do [...]

When selecting an instrument for your child, never underestimate the “cool factor”. There needs to be a basic attraction to the instrument. Does someone in the family (or anyone else whom the student admires) play that instrument? Did hearing it at a concert spark an interest? Listen to your child and find out what specifically [...]