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ala breve May/June 2020 The Official Publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association 28 COVID = 19 OPPORTUNITIES 30 RECRUITMENT DURING COVID-19 14 AMEA FUNDING TOOLKIT 34 HOW TO TEACH INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS ONLINE www.myamea.org







ala breve the official publication of the Alabama Music Educators Association May/June 2020 Features... 9 AMEA Governing Board Directory 13 Never Forget by Rob Lyda, AMEA Advocacy Chair 14 AMEA Funding Toolkit 17 General Music Reviews by Deanna Bell 21 All-National Honor Ensembles 22 AMEA Election Results 24 AMEA Town Hall 24 AMEA Alternative Music Teaching Resources 25 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference 27 In Memoriam: John M. Long 28 Covid = 19 Opportunities by David Raney 30 Recruitment During Covid-19 by Danielle Todd 34 How to Teach Instrumental Lessons Online by Matt Leder 40 Band Music Reviews by Randall Coleman 42 Industry/Institutional Members Departments... Advertisers Index All-National Honor Ensembles ................21 6 .....................President American College of Musicians ...............44 8 .....................Registrar Arts Music Shop, Inc ..................back cover 10...........................AOA AU Music Department ......................7 & 12 16 ..................Elem/Gen Gadsden Music Company...........................4 18 .............................AVA Huntingdon College Bands.......................38 20 ...........................ABA John M. Long School of Music (Troy) .....11 19 .....................cNAfME Samford University ..................................37 22 ..........................HED UAB Music...............................................26 UNA Department of Music ......................23 University of South Alabama Bands ........47 University of South Alabama Music ..........2 Yamaha.......................................................3 ala breve 5

Greg Gumina, AMEA President Hello AMEA! Well, it happened...The strangest but expect to see both large group “Our spring of our lifetimes. The most odd meeting time and break out interest organization time we could never imagine. COVID-19 sessions more specific to our various has done a has changed everything we do. We are Divisions and classroom situations. wonderful Zooming, WebEx’ing, Google Meeting, Staying connected to our profession is and literally living in the virtual world. It very important, so definitely plan to job of has been an adjustment for everybody, attend these events. sharing not just music education. However, inside knowledge every challenge is an opportunity to grow Engaged and Flexible in this new and learn. From the very beginning of and unusual this experience, we have accepted the The two words which seem to time.” challenge and taken advantage of the define this very interesting time are opportunity. I would like to thank the Engagement and Flexibility. We must stay Governing Board and our AMEA Staff engaged with our students so that for all of their work on bringing the teaching and learning can continue. We organization two very valuable resources must stay engaged with our parents so that are now available. First, through the they know what the expectations are, and work of Carl Hancock, we have a so they continue to support our programs. dedicated space on our website called We must also stay engaged in the process “Alternative Music Teaching Resources.” of Advocacy. This is not the time to It was designed as a receptacle for become invisible and allow ourselves to anything and everything related to be distracted. Instead, continue to be teaching music without actually being at visible and vigilant. Our students, parents, school. Please contribute your best ideas, communities, culture, profession, and art lessons, practices, and finds related to form deserve our very best...all the time. distanced learning. Please also use the And finally, we must stay engaged with ideas which are there already. Our other professionals so that we can help organization has done a wonderful job of each other thrive in such a different time. sharing knowledge in this new and We must not allow ourselves to become unusual time. If you haven’t heard, we complacent with lowered expectations. also have developed a new platform for Instead, stay engaged and communicate ongoing Professional Development called as much as possible so that we are the AMEA “Town Hall Meeting/Social.” prepared for whatever the future holds. At the time of this writing, we have We must also be flexible. It seems like hosted our first session, and it was every day there is a different outlook on fabulous. Phil Wilson and Susan Smith the progress of this virus, and the plans both gave wonderful sessions packed with continue to change in response. Be useful and valuable information. Thanks flexible with your students and give them to both of these professionals for being opportunities to learn music in different the first presenters in this new format. We ways. Take the opportunity to teach the will continue hosting the Town Hall things you have always wanted to teach Meeting/Social every Monday evening at your students, but never had the time. 5:30. The format will develop over time This is that opportunity! Be flexible with 6 May/June 2020

your parents and other stakeholders as in the fall of 2020 yet, and its only four David Raney will become the President well. They are working through this, months away. Some school districts in our of our organization and I am very much learning to live life differently, and trying state have already made plans to include looking forward to his leadership. As I to be teachers to their kids just like we are. more distanced learning in the have observed and worked with David And be flexible with the administrative curriculum. Will school start on time? Will over the past two years, I can tell you structure at your institution. They are there be some sort of alternate scheduling without a doubt in my mind that he is trying to figure out how to have school scenario? Will there be football games, going to be a wonderful President for the without actually having school. This is a AKA Marching Band performances? Will AMEA. We also just completed an very difficult time for them as well and schools start on time, and then have to election cycle. I would like to thank all the they will appreciate the music people close again? Will we get to be in the same candidates who were willing to serve our being flexible. room with our students? I don’t think organization. Congratulations to Dr. Carla anybody can honestly answer these Gallahan for being re-elected as AMEA Fall 2020 and Beyond questions quite yet. But our response Recording Secretary and to Dr. Rob Lyda needs to be one of genuine concern, for being elected as President-Elect. We I would highly suggest being ferocious planning, purposeful all look forward to your leadership and prepared for a multitude of possibilities engagement, meaningful connection, and continued devotion to our profession and for what education will look like in the fearless flexibility. our organization. My sincere wish is that fall. You have all heard the conversations. each of you stay safe and have a great The State of Colorado has already New President and Future Leadership summer. And regardless of what happens, counseled its District Superintendents to Music Education is STILL AWESOME be prepared for schools to not open until I have thoroughly enjoyed being in Alabama! January of 2021. Colleges and Universities the President of AMEA, and thank you are also talking about the real possibility very much for allowing me the Respectfully Submitted, that they will not reopen to in-person opportunity to serve our fabulous Greg Gumina, AMEA President classes until January of 2021. Nobody organization. It has indeed been one of really knows what education will look like the highlights of my career. On June 1st, ala breve 7

From the Pat Stegall - AMEA Registrar Registrar board is continuing the plans for the 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference in Montgomery. Mary Ann Stegall, Assistant Registrar I hope you have noticed how much better the registration process has become. Thanks to Are you ready for some social interaction with real live the work of the AMEA Board, Media Specialist-Dr. Carl people? I am, too! Although I have enjoyed the time at Hancock, Mary Ann Stegall and all the registration crew home, and video conference lessons and meetings, I am that have made this streamlined process so easy. If you longing for some real, face to face interaction. Hopefully must register on-site we have a process for that. Just that will come soon. I know you are missing your remember to do what you can online, ahead of the students, friends, colleagues, and family. I just want to go conference. That would include having your to my favorite restaurant and have a great steak! In the membership current, registering at the kiosks provided at meantime, we must all be thinking about how the future the registration area before coming to the main desk, and will be impacted by this crisis. Rest assured, the AMEA having your payment method ready. Checks are easy to process at the desk, but online credit card payments must be made at one of the kiosks. Remember to renew your membership in June. Also, as soon as the conference registration becomes available, register online! I look forward to serving you again, but I really look forward to seeing you at the conference! Stay safe, stay healthy! PS AMEA Presidents - Past to Present 1946 Yale H. Ellis 1972 Frances P. Moss 1996 Johnnie Vinson 1948 Walter A. Mason 1974 George Hammett 1998 Michael Meeks 1950 Vernon Skoog 1975 Frances P. Moss 2000 John McAphee, Jr. 1952 John J. Hoover 1976 S. J. Allen 2002 Tony Pike 1954 Lamar Triplett 1978 W. Frank McArthur 2004 Becky Rodgers 1956 Carleton K. Butler 1980 Paul Hall 2006 John Baker 1958 Mort Glosser 1982 Lacey Powell, Jr. 2008 Pat Stegall 1960 Wilbur Hinton 1984 Johnny Jacobs 2010 Steve McLendon 1962 Lacey Powell, Jr. 1986 Merilyn Jones 2012 Sara Womack 1964 G. Truman Welch 1988 Ronald D. Hooten 2014 Carl Hancock 1966 Jerry Countryman 1990 Ken Williams 2016 Susan Smith 1968 Floyd C. McClure 1992 Dianne Johnson 2018 Greg Gumina 1970 Jerry Bobo 1994 James K. Simpson 8 May/June 2020

AMEA Governing Board 2019-2020 President-Elect Treasurer/Registrar David Raney Pat Stegall President Sparkman High School AMEA Registration Greg Gumina 2616 Jeff Road PO Box 3385 Shades Valley High School Harvest, AL 35749 Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 6100 Old Leeds Road 256-837-0331 [email protected] Irondale, AL 35210 [email protected] (205) 956-4638 President, ABA [email protected] Recording Secretary Terry Ownby Carla Gallahan Florence High School Immediate Past President 113 Long Hall 1201 Bradshaw Drive Susan Smith Troy University Florence, AL 35630 104 Smith Hall Troy, AL 36082 (256) 768-2200 Troy, AL 36082 (334) 670-3502 [email protected] (334) 670-3322 [email protected] [email protected] President, ELEM/GEN President, AVA Betty Wilson President, AOA Megan Jones Deer Valley Elementary Guy Harrison Decatur High School 4990 Ross Bridge Parkway 218 Goodwin Music Building 1011 Prospect Drive Hoover, AL 35226 Auburn University, AL 36849 Decatur, AL 35601 (205) 296-3311 (334) 844-8192 (256) 552- 3011 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] President, Higher Education President, AMEA Collegiate AMEA Collegiate Advisor Mildred Lanier Jackson Vaughan Edward (Ted) Hoffman Jefferson State Community College [email protected] University of Montevallo (205) 983-5309 Station 6670 [email protected] Industry Representative Davis Music Building 308 Becky Lightfoot Montevallo, AL 35115 Alabama Department of Education Arts Music Shop (205) 665-6668 Arts Education Specialist 3030 East Blvd. [email protected] Andy Meadows Montgomery, AL 36116 50 North Ripley Street 334/271-2787 Assistant Executive Director Montgomery, Alabama 36104 [email protected] Rusty Logan (334) 353-1191 2020 Janabrooke Lane [email protected] Executive Director Auburn, AL 36830 Editor, Ala Breve (334) 663-1702 Garry Taylor [email protected] 1600 Manor Dr. NE Cullman, AL 35055 (256) 636-2754 [email protected] On the cover: Members of the Samford String Quartet make music while maintaining social distancing Garry Taylor, Editor & Advertising Manager ADVERTISING & COPY DEADLINES 1600 Manor Dr. NE Fall - August/September (Back to School) issue: July 15 Cullman, AL 35055 Winter - October/November (Conference) issue: September 15 (256) 636-2754 Spring - May/June (All-State) issue: January 15 [email protected] Summer - May/June (Digital Only) issue: April 15 Unless otherwise indicated, permission is granted to NAfME members to reprint articles for educational purposes. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of AMEA or the Editor. All announcements & submissions are subject to editorial judgement/revision.The Alabama Music Educators Association is a state unit of NAfME: The National Association for Music Education, a voluntary, nonprofit organization representing all phases of music education in schools, colleges, universities, and teacher-education institutions. Active NAfME/AMEA membership is open to all persons engaged in music teaching or other music education work. Ala Breve is published four times a year (August, October, February & May) by the Alabama Music Educators Association and printed by Hardwick and Son Printing in Dothan, Alabama. Subscription for members is $4.00 per year as part of annual NAfME/AMEA dues. Subscriptions for non-members is $15.00 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Dothan, Alabama. ala breve 9

Guy Harrison - President, Alabama Orchestra Association Moving Forward Well, this certainly wasn’t the finish of the Moody School of Music in early-February. This is my last column as year we were expecting! I know many of Once again, the festival was a great President of the Alabama you are missing your students, are success. The students were all thrilled with Orchestra Association and as disappointed that spring concerts will not their conductors, as were their parents, such, I want to take the time be taking place, that graduates will not be and their teachers. One student even asked to acknowledge the recognized for their contributions to your me if their clinician could come back year- tremendous support that I program in ways that have occurred in the after-year they enjoyed working with them receive from the AOA past, and are probably feeling some so much! It is always amazing to see what Executive Board, our District uncertainty around what all of this might these renowned conductors can Chairs, parent volunteers, and mean for the future of your program. accomplish in a short amount of time. all of the teachers that However, I am confident we will bounce Our Composition Contest winning work continue to send students to back, that our programs will thrive as Reef by Samford Professor Dr. Mark our events, coach sectionals, students look for more expressive outlets, Lackey was extremely well received by lead rehearsals, run audition and we once again highlight the impact both the students and our audience, and sites and jump in where that the arts have on our society. his Meet the Composer session was one of needed. Our Executive the best I have seen – it could have lasted Director, Julie Hornstein is hands down I hope you have all been able to take a few more hours and no one would have the single greatest gift any division advantage of the resources made available been anxious to leave! president could ask for. Without her, we through the myamea.org website, and have would not be able to continue to run any participated in one of the live townhalls We were certainly disappointed that our of the programs we offer. Her knowledge that began taking place in mid-April. I annual Music Performance Assessment of the organization is second-to-none and want to thank AMEA President Greg event had to be canceled. However, we I thank her for keeping me on track Gumina, AMEA President-elect David look forward to next year’s opportunity (amongst other things) when needed. Raney, and the entire AMEA leadership and hope that as many programs as for their efforts to continue supporting possible join us for this relatively new, but I am certainly looking forward to seeing music teachers as we navigate these important event. the direction our organization takes under challenging times. its new leadership. I have no doubts that Please be on the lookout for information incoming President Dr. Daniel Stevens While the year did not finish the way we regarding auditions for the 2021 All-State and President-elect Joseph Lee will take were all hoping, the Alabama Orchestra Orchestra Festival. We will be making the AOA to new and exciting heights. Association was fortunate enough to be some minor adjustments from this last Please stay tuned for updates from them able to hold its annual All-State Orchestra round of auditions and should have more as we transition and prepare for 2020- Festival at the University of Alabama’s information available soon. 2021. Thank you all for allowing me to serve as AOA President these last two years. I have appreciated all of your support, guidance, suggestions, and encouragement during this time and I look forward to continuing to support our organization in the years to come. As always, if there is anything that the AOA can do to help you and your program please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Regards, Guy Harrison President,Alabama Orchestra Association 10 May/June 2020

Troy University is a fully accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)



Rob Lyda, AMEA Advocacy Chair Never Forget… First and foremost – growth, rest, connection, and advocacy. depressed teachers. I encourage you all to You matter and music As we move forward, I believe, the best continue using social media to tell your story. education matters. We are all experiencing a advocacy tool we have is connection. I Please make sure any post about your multitude of emotions because of social know this might sound counterintuitive as program or student success is tagged with distancing, leaders saying that spring many of us are staying home and social #ala4musiced. activities are “done”, and not having the distancing. However, we need to think ability to make music in-person. We may about how important connection is to all of The AMEA leadership along with NAfME’s even feel like we’ve lost our identifies us. Connecting with our students, our state advocacy liaison, Matt Barusch, created because so much of who we are is school communities, and our local and state a Funding Toolkit document that explains intertwined with being a music teacher. leaders is essential during this time. A how school systems can use federal money Never forget that you and music education phone call may be the thing that motivates (Title I, IV, and CARES Act) to fund music matters to our schools, our communities, the singer or band member wondering if education. With almost all music positions and most importantly to children. I believe they should continue music next year. An being locally funded in Alabama, local that serving children is a sacred act and that email, Facebook post, or YouTube video leaders will need to find ways to make up for the classroom is hallowed ground. We will might be the best recruitment tool for our lost local revenue. This will create an return to our sacred spaces and make music ensembles right now. A Zoom music meet- unfortunate burden on school systems that again. up or YouTube video might be the biggest lack strong local tax structures. Eliminating advocacy tool you have at your disposal. I music in many of our school systems will In a recent meeting with NAfME’s state have received messages from parents telling become an issue of equity and access that advocacy manager, AMEA was asked to me how much they appreciate my weekly will disproportionally impact students of identify specific advocacy “asks” to use as YouTube videos and Zoom meetings color, in low-income areas, and rural we engage with state legislators. In all because it gives them 15-30 minutes of communities. Please use and distribute this honesty, it is difficult to know specific asks peace! While I’m glad my attempts at resource to your local education leaders. because the game has changed. We do not connection bring peace to parents, this is know what the future holds, however, we also a powerful advocacy moment because it One last thing – do your best to remain must be proactive and not wait until it’s too is a reminder of the important place music positive. Our students and communities late to advocate. There will always be holds in their child’s life. need us to be positive. We can provide the universal asks – fully funded music positive stability that our students need and programs, music education for all students, I would also encourage you to use this time crave during this time. It’s easy to give in to and ensuring every school has a certified to connect with your school, local, and state fears and wonder how we will ever be able to music teacher, still, our present-day situation leaders. Find ways to remind and do what we used to do. However, try to find brings new challenges to overcome that may demonstrate that music education is the positive. There are free concerts on TV, not be fully realized. Using this time to be important. The best tool we have is our artists are giving free masterclasses, amazing proactive may pay enormous dividends for student’s voice – let the students tell the professional development opportunities are our programs and build necessary advocacy leaders why music is important. Use your being offered, and we have time. Time is capital. personal, school, and your student’s social something music educators usually never media accounts to exclaim the importance have at the end of the school year. Positivity Legislators are discussing a “bare-bones” of music education. can be a powerful advocacy tool. education budget. Schools systems are dealing with the fact that, by some estimates, We were pleased with the response to our Never forget – YOU are important and do municipalities will see a reduction in 25% “Virtual Hill Day” on March 31st. There is important work. We will get through this, local revenue. Many of our small businesses post after post showcasing the importance we will be with our students again, and we that have been the backbone of our of music education in Alabama. While will continue to demonstrate why music communities and supported our programs tagging posts with a simple advocacy phrase education is important for all students in are hurting. In our profession, where most may have been small to us, we may never Alabama. If I can do anything to help you, of our positions are locally funded, it is easy know the full impact those posts had on please do not hesitate to contact me. I wish to give in to the fears and “what ifs”. influencing lawmakers, parents, or even you good health, safety, and peace. However, remember you are important. encouraging disappointed students and Don’t allow yourself to dwell in the “what ifs”, but rather, use this time for professional ala breve 13

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Betty Wilson -  President, Elementary/General Division The World Melissa McIntyre for more festival Turned information at The 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference is Upside Down coming up as well. We are currently accepting applications for presenters and “Yet let's be content, and the times lament, you with the necessary resources, performers. We would love to strengthen you see the world turn'd upside down.” This professional development, and lessons that our Alabama PLC by having great sessions is a line from an old English Ballad that might meet your needs through our website . provided by you and your colleagues. Use dates back to the 1640s when the English Here, you can access a database of online the link on to submit your session or apply Parliament banned portions of Christmas lessons grouped by teaching specialty: band, to perform. I would also like to hear from celebrations. Later, it was rumored to have choir, orchestra, college, and elementary/ you regarding sessions you’d like to see been played by the English at the Battle of general. Each set of lessons is further offered. Please email me at to suggest Yorktown during their surrender. Probably, categorized by topic or objectives. You can presenters or topics you like to see. The the most famous recent quoting of this line contribute to this database when you create deadline for session proposals and is from the musical Hamilton in the song something for your classroom. The process performing groups is June 1, 2020. “Yorktown” by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Although historians have searched is very In closing, I would like to encourage you to Revolutionary War records, no keep the faith and stay the course. We are all source can confirm this tune gifted with many different gifts and are was one of the songs that charged to use them to the best of our was played when the abilities. I believe we are stronger when we English surrendered. share what we know with others whether Whether true or rumor matters very little in 2020, online or in person. Thank you again, as the legend lives on. Now for your hard work, dedication, and we know that the world [is] continued support of the turned upside down. Elementary/General Division of the AMEA and the children Learning and teaching continue in a way that easy and of Alabama. I can’t wait to see none of us could have imagined just 6 user friendly and I encourage each of you to you soon. months ago. While online learning has been visit this site. NAfME is also offering in place for many years, most of us were not professional development and resources on Sincerely, prepared for what we were asked to do just a its website . Some of these are even Betty R Wilson, President few short weeks ago. I received my Master’s available for non-members. I encourage you Elementary/General Division Degree from the University of Florida in to take advantage of these courses and to 2016 through it’s online Music Education keep track of your professional development Upcoming Dates: program. I feel lucky to have had exposure hours. I would also encourage you to reach to the possibilities of online teaching and out to your local Professional Learning Elementary Music Festival, Friday, October learning. However, very little of what I did Community. We should all strive to “meet 16th, 2020; Eastmont Baptist Church in actually transferred over to what I have been regularly, share expertise, and work Montgomery, Alabama. asked to do as an elementary music educator. collaboratively to improve teaching skills and The requirements from our Principals, the academic performance of students” () Joint Fall Workshop sponsored by Schools, and Districts have been wide and even during this time of school closure. Elementary/General Division of AMEA, varied. Some teachers have been asked to AOSA, and SHAKE, Saturday, October do very little so as not to overwhelm the Speaking of professional development, the 17th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Eastmont Baptist parents, while others have been asked to Fall Workshop is set for Saturday, October Church in Montgomery, Alabama featuring deliver the same amount of instruction that 17, 2020, at Eastmont Baptist Church in clinician Jeremy Howard the students would have received in the Montgomery, Alabama. This workshop classroom by making and posting videos of directly follows our Elementary AMEA NAfME In-Service Conference, Nov 4-8, themselves teaching. No matter what your Choir Festival and will feature clinician, 2020, Orlando, Florida. school is doing, there are many wonderful Jeremy Howard. The sign-up for the choir resources to help you. Let’s start with a few. festival is open and the deadline is Friday, American Orff-Schulwerk Association, May 8, 2020. All sign-ups must be completed National Professional Development The AMEA Board is working to provide online using the following link; . Please email Conference, November 11-14, 2020, Kansas City. Registration begins July 1st. 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference, January 21-23, 2021, Renaissance Hotel, Montgomery, Alabama. 16 May/June 2020

General Music Reviews Don’t worry. I got the Chicken! by Deanna Bell, My Singing Bird: I will use these songs and games to teach my year-end skills. (Erdei, Ida, et al, ed. My Singing Bird: 150 Music Teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary Folk Songs. The Kodály Center of America, Inc., 2002. Print) East. I can’t believe I am writing this final review during a pandemic. This Rhythm and Melody Flashcards: These are good for the is something I never thought would happen in my lifetime. I have end of the year review. (Gagne, Denise. 80 Melody Flashcards. Red had many challenges in my career but nothing like this. I made it Deer, Alberta: Themes and Variations, 1994. Print.) (Gagne, Denise. through 9/11 in Washington D.C. while working at Glen Forest Ele- Rhythm Flashcards. Red Deer, Alberta: Themes and Variations, 1994. mentary. I made it through being stuck in my house for fourteen Print.) days because of a blizzard while working at Linkhorne Middle School. I made it through a tornado destroying my school while Year-Long Lesson Plans: For each grade. For me to stay working at Center Point Elementary. I lived through sleeping on my on track I need to continue with what we are doing. I don’t want to music room floor at Vestavia East during the snow/ice storm. Now, re-teach something they may already know and become bored. I need to make it through e-learning during a pandemic. A racquetball, small purse, and a purple rubber One thing that I learned from each of these situations, is that stu- chicken that squeaks. The chicken is a dog toy that squeaks. I’ve dents just want to sing. They want to sing simple songs, play games, decided to include our pets in online learning. and continue with their learning. That is how they return to their normal. Many of you had opportunities to go into your building to get items On my computer, I will use Jeremy Howard’s, Music Makers PDF. that you needed for e-learning. I also had a two-hour window to go This book has many ‘point and sing’ exercises that are great. in and to get materials. I got five songbooks, flashcards, a racquet- https://www.facebook.com/pg/musicmakersteacher/posts/ ball, a tiny purse, and our rubber chicken. When I went into the room, I felt an overwhelming urge to get everything. I also felt panic Also, all of my kids have individual Quaver accounts they access and sadness. I thought about taking books, a guitar, a ukulele, audio through the “Clever” website. This allows them to work at their cubes, xylophones, and curriculum books. However, I remembered own pace at home, with their own avatar adventure. My kids love to what my friend, Brittany Hopfensperger, said before I went into the play the games in the app and are racking up thousands of points all building. She said, “just get things that you know that the children while learning about music. will love!” If I could recommend one website to you it would be this one: The This is what I got from my music room and what I am using for e- American Folk Song Collection from Holy Name University: learning: http://kodaly.hnu.edu/collection.cfm This is the greatest song col- lection on the internet. You can search by grade level, rhythmic, or An American Methodology: This is the #1 book every- melodic idea. It has an analysis for each song, and it includes move- one needs in their library. It has a sequential list of skills with lesson ment and game ideas. plans and song suggestions. In the back of the book are the songs with the games. I will use this as a guide to complete my year-long Musical Wishes to you! skills that are planned. (Ann Eisen and Lamar Robertson). An Ameri- can Methodology: An Inclusive Approach to Musical Literacy. 2nd Ed. Lake Stay Healthy and Happy, Charles, Louisiana: Sneaky Snake Publications, LLC, 2010. Deanna Bell Orff Sources 1 and 2: I will use these songs for simple games that students can play with their families. They can use a rac- quetball for ball-passing and steady beat games, or a small purse to play “Lucy Locket” or “Hide the Penny.” (Gagne, Denise. The Orff Source. Red Deer, Alberta: Themes and Variations, 2001. Print.) (Am- chin, Robert A., et al. The Orff Source Volume 2. Red Deer, Alberta: Themes and Variations, 2011. Print) ala breve 17

Megan Jones - President, Alabama Vocal Association AVA: Reflections on the Year, Anticipations of the Future I could never have imagined that I would chance to see what choral opportunities you are interested in presenting a short, be writing my final AMEA article during a are available to them throughout the state. 30-minute session during the workshop, time of quarantine. I know we are all please let us know. Though we love desperately missing our students, Next year’s All-State Festival will be March hearing from our guest clinician, it’s so colleagues, and music-making. I’m so 4-6, 2021. Again, if you have any ideas for beneficial to hear from our colleagues who grateful that technology is allowing us all next year’s festival, please let us know. are in the trenches with us every day! to stay somewhat connected, but I know we all can’t wait for the chance to gather AMEA Summer Board to create music again. The need for The 2021 AMEA conference will be The AVA will meet this summer to review community created by our choirs has January 21-23 in Montgomery. The and revise the handbook, approve All- never been more apparent! deadline to submit is June 1. Please do State music, and plan events for this All-State coming year. If you have anything I cannot say thank you enough to all that you would like added to the of our participating schools and agenda for the board to discuss, directors for how you adapted to our please submit it in writing to Randall new location and did so with grace at randall.fields.ava@ gmail.com and positivity. The AVA Board has before May 29. already been evaluating areas for improvement for next year as we look not let the fact that we do not have AVA Board forward to returning to the BJCC. recordings from SCPA this year deter you. As my time as AVA President comes We welcome any ideas you may have Submit Christmas recordings if that is to a close, I want to say again how to make next year even better. what you have available! I would hate for much the relationships I’ve built us to have a small number of submissions while on the board have meant to Thank you to all of our members this year simply because we did not have me. This has been the biggest who served as Choir Coordinator, SCPA or spring concerts. Even if you are benefit and blessing to me. In Assistant Coordinator, Attendance unsure of your recordings, I would still serving on the board, I have had the Monitor, or in any other capacity and encourage you to submit. privilege of getting to know so many helped to keep the festival running of you across the state, an honor that smoothly. I would also like to specifically Fall Workshop otherwise might have not been possible. I thank John Kincaid for his hard work in Please mark your calendar now for this am so thankful for all of you and am coordinating our concert site in a brand- year’s Fall Workshop and make plans to honored to serve with such great people. new venue! attend! It will be on September 11 in I look forward to continuing to serve you Montgomery. At this workshop, we will as Vice-President as I support Randall I would also like to say thank you to announce any major decisions that are Fields in his new role as AVA President. Melinda Doyle and the University of made during Summer Board and we will I’d also like to say thank you to Ginny Montevallo Concert Choir and Brian review All-State music to prepare for Coleman she rotates off of the board for Kittredge and the UAB Concert Choir for auditions. If you plan on participating in her 10 years of service – an entire decade! performing for our convocation. I was any AVA events next school year, I would – to the AVA. Ginny’s leadership has been thrilled to have the opportunity to expose strongly encourage you to attend. Also, if invaluable to our organization. I have our students to these wonderful choral appreciated her efforts to make our programs. We look forward to having organization more transparent and more university choirs participate in the forward-thinking. future. In addition to these convocation performances, we are also planning for Thank you, again, for allowing me to serve next year to invite university choirs to set as your AVA President. I look forward to up recruitment tables in the Forum seeing you all in September! building so that our students can have the Meg 18 May/June 2020

Jackson Vaughan, President, Alabama cNAfME Q(uarantined) chapter writes, and engage with each “UNA's chapter is other without face to holding ‘music ed- face interaction. cNAfME ucation round- At the University of Al- table’ discussions abama, students have via Zoom every engaged with online resources. President week. Here, we Isabelle Page writes, “I doubt we’ll have a synchronous meeting with the entire present and dis- chapter. What I plan on doing is to re- search some online learning tools for Throughout this troubling time for our cuss topics in music teachers being used currently or world, cNAfME and music educators music education. Our discussions also to talk to music teachers currently teach- have been forced to ask themselves cover our personal teaching philosophies ing online classes, and compile some “How do we go on?.” Over the last or procedures, and we discuss and share narratives or tips/tricks on how to navi- month, college students across the globe ideas and advice all in an effort to build gate such a unique situation. I think have been sent home to complete the se- us as future music educators.” what’s happening right now is horrible, but at the same time, it’s a learning op- mester online. But what does this mean Troy University’s president Caroline portunity for future teachers that I think for musicians whose classes nearly all Swann states, “Our cNAfME chapter we should take advantage of—it’s an ex- have some sort of performance aspect? has stayed in contact by having our busi- cellent example of how teachers have to Do we perform online to Facebook ness meetings over Zoom! We are also be ready to change their plans, so it’s Live? Do we cancel our long-awaited going to have an edTPA workshop with something we should all be keeping up recitals? Do we get to complete our in- a guest speaker. Recently we held a busi- with.” ternships? All of these questions are ness meeting where we talked about the troublesome and difficult to answer, but bylaws and nominations for the execu- Our chapters are quickly learning what it as future music educators, it is important tive team for next year.” means to be adaptable, which is an im- for us to continue to strive to learn from portant trait any teacher should possess. As we continue to navigate the uncertain home and become better equipped for As chapters continue their normal rou- days and months ahead, ALcNAfME the careers ahead of us. tines from home, we are seeing how will continue to function and engage with each other with the goal of produc- Since being home, cNAfME chapters technology has changed how we interact ing better future music educators than have been encouraged to continue meet- with each other. While last month it we had at the beginning of 2020. So, as ing in some facet. For many of our would have been easy to say that the days at home go on, we will continue chapters, that means meeting over we are terrified of how education will to learn, teach, and engage as future Zoom to discuss important music edu- look in the coming weeks, cNAfME has music educators. cation topics, but for others, it means proven they can carry on through online meeting asynchronously and using a set meetings, plan for the of resources to continue engaging in ed- year to ucational materials from home. Our chapter presidents have worked diligently to keep their chapters afloat and have collaborated in com- piling different ways to still grow as future educators during this time of acting as Q(uarantined)cNAfME. The University of North Alabama and Samford Chapter Troy University have both been able to come, meet online through Zoom. In their meetings, they discuss what music edu- and become better edu- cation looks like from home and how to stay engaged with the classroom away cators from home. While Troy Chapter from the classroom. many of our chapters have Alexa Dishroon, president of UNA’s been able to meet synchro- nously, some chapters have had to adapt ala breve 19

Terry Ownby- President, Alabama Bandmasters Association “I have never been so proud to be an educator as I have this past month.” How are we going to get through path for our students and programs learned how to zoom/hangout and this? What are my students going to whatever is put before us. virtually communicate with ease and do? What about my concert? How learned how to offer instruction in will I recruit for next year? What I have never been so proud to be an so many different ways at a moment’s about auxiliary and drum major educator than I have the past month. notice all because we wanted to do tryouts? How will I teach my content To see teachers rolling up their everything we could for our students. digitally? These are all BIG questions sleeves, learning new technologies, You are to be commended for all that we have all had to answer over sometimes going back to old school that you are doing during this the past 5 weeks. None of us would methods, reaching out to their unprecedented time. Keep your have ever imagined on March 1 what colleagues to help and to ask for help heads up and keep on moving April would look like for our and to see the teaching community forward. These days will end soon programs, but there is one thing that come together more than I can ever enough and what you do right now is I know for sure, we as band directors remember it being together during setting the pathway for your and music teachers ALWAYS find a my 29 years of teaching. We have program’s future! In the days ahead think about the following things to help your program: 1. Attend some PD sessions online to aid you in this time 2. Look at your program and implement some things you’ve wanted to but haven’t had the time (I’ve revamped my student leadership application procedures and how I will train them for the Fall during this time) 3. Spend time getting organized as you close out this year and are getting ready to tackle next year 4. Plan for summer activities – a. Have a plan A for normal summer b. Plan B for shorter summer, c. Plan C for what would happen if there are no summer activities – don’t be caught off guard, plan NOW i. Remember, if you fail to plan you have planned to fail!!!! 5. Start now planning Concert Band literature your band for the next academic year – order in September a. Veterans Day b. Christmas c. MPA d. March Madness – if you’ve never done this concert - DO IT e. Spring Concert 6. It’s not too late to recruit – put together a video of your leadership students encouraging younger students to be in band – use iMovie or the like to put this together and get this out on social media and to your school – ASSUME THAT ALL YOUR UPCOMING STUDENTS ARE GOING TO BE IN BAND AND GO AFTER THEM!!!!!!!!! 7. Use this time to market your program in a positive way!!! 8. Look at your finances and how you will manage them in the Fall since most of us missed a fundraiser this Spring 20 May/June 2020

Upcoming ABA events ensemble events next school year for Take time during all of this to invest our students. This is something for in personal growth, time to invest All-State – All of the clinicians from each district to discuss and see what and grow with your family, time for the 2020 event will be with us for the works best for your district. your faith, and time for your musical 2021 event in Mobile. All of the journey as well. I am setting aside 30 registration money for All-State, the AMEA 2021 - All legislation that was minutes a day to sit down and Solo Festival, and the Friday lunch going to be voted on at the All-State practice my horn. I always complain has been refunded to the schools. festival (2020), will be moved to the I don’t have the time, well now I 2021 AMEA conference so that the have nothing but time. Remember Summer Conference - As of now, membership will have the that this will end, and we will get the ABA Summer Conference is still opportunity to discuss the legislation through this, what matters is what we a go. The board will meet in May to before we vote on the legislation. did with the time we had and did we make a final determination about this invest in the things that really event, but we are hoping that we will AMEA has a resource page at matter!! be able to have the event as planned. myamea.us where we can all go to Doug Farris will be sending out a find resources to help during this Stay strong!! room link very soon to the time. You can also place your ideas membership for this. and resources here to help us build This is your association. Let us all this site. Also, remember to be strive to make it better so that we can Solo and Ensemble - Our bylaws proactive and positive as we move serve the students and the bands in allow for Solo and Ensemble to forward. The future of our programs our state better. We are ABA and occur anytime from October through will depend upon how we handle this together we CAN do great things!! May. Each district has been time with our students and their encouraged to offer two solo and families.  Terry YOUR STUDENTS COULD BE PART OF AN ENSEMBLE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME! 2020 All-National Honor Ensembles Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center Orlando, Florida November 5–8, 2020 Audition Deadline: May 1,52, 0220200, ,11:15:959PPMMEETT nafme.org/ANHE ala breve 21

Michael Zelenak -Incoming President, Higher Education Division “The world has become a different place.” Greetings colleagues! With great traditional classroom, but accepting that internship requirements this semester. excitement and anticipation, I welcome video conferencing now has a Music education interns across the state my new appointment as president of the permanent place in our educator’s were not able to complete their 16 weeks Higher Education Division of the toolbox. in the classroom. The SBOE granted AMEA. I appreciate your confidence in full credit to those students for their my abilities and look forward to serving I’d like to acknowledge the AMEA time in the classroom and also created a the members of this great organization. Executive Board for their proactive temporary educator certificate so that My predecessor Mildred Lanier was an response to the pandemic. I attended the the interns can apply for jobs in the fall. effective leader and I will work diligently Town Hall Meeting (video conference) I hope the SBOE also considers easing to maintain her standard of excellence. on April 20 and found it very engaging. the 161 cut-score on the Praxis exam. Phil Wilson and Susan Smith provided Over the past sixth months, the world practical strategies and expressed our This year, NAfME is combining its has become a different place. I collective uneasiness. More meetings are annual conference with the biennial commend all of your efforts to remain on the way so monitor your email and Music Research and Teacher Education connected to your students. Music the AMEA website for future dates. Conference. It is scheduled to take place educators are amazing people! Although in Orlando, FL from Nov. 4-8. One goal this pandemic has had negative impacts In addition to the Town Hall, AMEA of this combined conference is to on us, it has also pushed us into the has added a new Alternative Music facilitate the interaction of P-12 future. Teaching Resources link on its educators and faculty. homepage. Developed by Carl Hancock, Video conferencing is now ubiquitous the resources are organized by Speaking of interactions, the pandemic and widely accepted as a communication specialization and contain links to has highlighted the importance of tool. I can’t count how many video helpful sources recommended by personal interaction in our personal and conferences and webinars I’ve been on AMEA members. Remember, this professional lives. We are busy people, in the past few months. How did we get resource is not only for P-12 educators. but we also need time to develop along without Zoom and Google Meet? We need your help in identifying relationships with people who are My technology skills have taken a major websites and strategies that are useful in important to us. Lesson learned – life is step forward and I hope yours have too. higher education. more musical when we have Recognize that we are living through a relationships that keep our hearts major transformation in education. I’m I’d also like to commend the Alabama beating and inspire our imaginations. not heralding the death of the State Board of Education for easing Best wishes for all! AMEA Election Results Congratulations! Rob Lyda, AMEA President-Elect Carla Gallahan, Recording Secretary 22 May/June 2020



24 May/June 2020

2021 January 21-23 Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Convention Center Apply now to perform at the 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference https://form.jotform.com/50583708668164 Deadline: June 1 Apply now to present a session at the 2021 AMEA Professional Development Conference https://form.jotform.com/50583708668164 Deadline: June 1

DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC MUSIC THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR WORLD

In Memoriam Editor’s Note: A memorial tribute to Dr. John M. Long will be published in the August/September (print) issue of Ala Breve. DR. JOHNNY LONG passed away February 24, 2020 at the age of 94. Over the course of a career that spanned seven decades, Long brought national attention to the young musicians in the state of Alabama with his energetic style and enthusiasm for music education. He was a member of AMEA for 70 years, serving at Blount County (Oneonta) High School, Fort Payne High School, Robert E. Lee High School, and finally Troy University. At Troy, he established the National Band Association Hall of Fame on campus and was elected to membership. He is a member of the Alabama Bandmasters Association Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Sudler Award from the Sousa Foundation and Sondheim Prize from the Kennedy Center. He was elected President of the American Bandmasters Association and, through partnering with then-President Reagan, helped to make “The Stars and Stripes Forever” the official march of the United States of America. We will have more on Dr. Long’s life and career in the next issue of Ala Breve. (Contributed by Michael Bird) Noteworthy Pelham Mayor Gary Waters presents a proclamation recognizing Music in 27 Our Schools Month to HED President Mildred Lanier at the March 2nd Pelham City Council meeting. Mildred states, “As a City Councilor and President of the Higher Education Division, I am proud that this represents our division and AMEA.” ala breve

COVID = 19 OPPORTUNITIES David Raney, AMEA President-Elect Afamous saying my wife loves to share with her For this exercise, let’s call it the 19 opportunities of students is “often times we find ourselves in a COVID. Now that we are deep into virtual/distance situation that is not our fault, but it is our learning we have the opportunity to: problem.” This is usually proceeded with a student mumbling, “that’s not fair” or “I didn’t do that,” etc. I find 1. Strengthen your passion for music: You now have an this saying much better than some I’ve heard before such opportunity to practice again. Pull out your senior recital as, “life is not fair, get over it.” As you can see, one music and relive the “glory days.” Play/Sing your student’s response presents a problem that has a solution and the music and gain better insight with the struggles they may other just accepts the fact that things are bad and you have with what you have assigned. should just accept it. 2. Discover Digital Teaching Strategies: Take time to dig Make no mistake, people are hurting mentally, physically, deeper into the process of virtual learning. You may find and financially and there is no quick fix or easy solution to strategies that you will want to continue to use after normal the problems we face. We now find ourselves having to operations resume. choose how we handle COVID-19, which is completely not our fault but is our problem. 3. Learn New Applications: Have you ever wanted to learn how to make videos or professional-quality audio One way to deal with the problem is to focus on the recordings? Now is the time to invest in a related skill to positives that have come out of this pandemic. This will not your profession. change anyone’s financial status or even heal a sick body but may bring peace to someone by recognizing there is good 4. Publish Digital Content: Create a YouTube account that can come from any situation. and build a digital library of “how-to” videos for your 28 May/June 2020

program. How many times can they watch a video on how while you hold each other accountable for added to properly put a plume in a shako? More than you can motivation. explain it. 14. Complete Home Projects: With the encouragement 5. Connect with Parents: This is a great time to of my lovely wife, I was able to finally paint the fence a year communicate with your student’s parents individually. You after I said I would. You may have a loved one that has may be surprised by what you learn about your students by planned opportunities for you as well. hearing it directly from their parents. This is a great investment in your program. 15. Read: TV is out and digital audiobooks are very popular. Try audible.com if you don’t know where to start. 6. Organize your Files: Does your desktop look like an icon wallpaper? Create a system of storage that will allow 16. Find a New Hobby: Outdoor hobbies are my personal you to find your files quicker. Clean out your inbox and favorite and can contribute to your overall health and organize folders to store those you must save. wellbeing. 7. Listen to Music: When was the last time you had an 17. Love Thy Neighbor: Do something nice for someone, opportunity to cleanse your pallet and actually enjoy especially if they are suffering during these times. Pay it listening to music for pleasure? Now is your chance to put forward or do some yard work for someone that is unable. on a pair of headphones, close your eyes, and have quality You may find it will bless you more than it will them. time with your favorite music. 18. Slow Down: Appreciate what you have. Take a moment 8. Collaborate with your Colleagues: Find people in your and reflect on how lucky we are to be a part of this area and set up a meeting to share subject ideas, solutions, incredible profession. or just have a conversation with someone that can empathize with you. 19. Grow Spiritually - We teach the fundamentals of playing an instrument or singing to our students every day 9. Sharpen Your Saw: Seek out online professional because it benefits them when the music becomes more development opportunities. The NAfME website has many difficult. A spiritual daily walk is the fundamental that has sources that provide free professional development clock provided me with more than I could ever do on my own. hours. As a follower of Christ, I am a very blessed person even when life becomes difficult. 10. Spread Hope for Students: Meet with your students online and be the positive influence in their life. For some I’m sure your list may look a little different than mine but of them it may be the only smile they see all week and it the most important thing is to think positively during these will be needed more now than ever. uncertain times. I’m convinced we will exit this pandemic much stronger and wiser if we allow ourselves to see the 11. Enjoy Family Time: Cherish the moments you have silver lining. with your family. You may never have another opportunity like this again. 12. Reconnect with Old Friends: We live a busy life. Take time to reach out to those old childhood friends and catch up. Take a walk down memory lane and share old stories. 13. Exercise Daily: Find a AMEA leadership in one of several ZOOM meetings group of friends and create a “Zoom and Move” meeting. Run and exercises together ala breve 29

Login to social media on any given day This shocking pandemic has caused are sizeable concerns for music and it is not uncommon to see pictures traditional teaching methods to come teachers, especially those of beginning of students, teachers, and classrooms to an abrupt halt for teachers, students, level ensembles, as a large amount of from those involved in education, and schools; a situation filled with recruitment occurs at the end of the whether they are educators or have sadness and uncertainty. Classroom spring semester, over the summer, and school-aged children. As someone who teachers have closed their doors, and at the start of the fall semester. works in music education, the pictures instruction has moved to online and Unfortunately, there is no timeline on my news feed are often related to remote alternatives that often do not available for COVID-19 to help ease music classrooms, and typically due to include traditional ideals used in the the concerns of teachers across the privacy concerns the pictures do not music classroom. Music assessments state of Kentucky and the nation. It is usually involve students. It is not students and teachers have spent simply a waiting game as government uncommon for me to see a picture of months preparing for have been mandates rapidly occur and educators an empty classroom posted by music canceled, concerts have been simply try to keep up. teachers in celebration of the new postponed with uncertainty, and In an effort to help the music school year or semester beginning, to individual instruction has moved from community brainstorm and develop advertise open houses commemorating in-person to online if it exists at all. As creative ideas for recruiting during this the addition of a newly updated or music teachers deal with this new idea challenging time, I will discuss constructed music room, or to signify of “normal” to continue the academic recruiting in regard to the three anticipation for an upcoming music year, anecdotal evidence suggests that questions mentioned above. Most of event. However, in recent weeks my looming concerns related to recruiting this information will pertain to social media feed has been bombarded are abundant. “What will next year look beginning level ensembles, but it could with pictures of empty classrooms for a like for my music program? If we do not go transfer to other areas and programs. different reason: COVID-19 (Centers back to school this semester, how will I recruit for Disease Control and Prevention, students? If students do join my program, how 2020). will they be placed on instruments?” These 30 May/June 2020

Question 1: What will next year look like for my program? 3. Monetary assistance. Most music programs have Let me pose an alternative question. Do we ever know exactly yearly fundraisers already in place; however, this year what our music program will look like from year to year? It has been consider adding one or two fundraisers specific for my experience that we may have a general idea, but often covering student costs. Overrun with fundraisers there are challenges or unexpected events that occur that already? Consult administration to see if soliciting create adjustments. COVID-19 is no different in that aspect, donations for music student success is an option. it has just interrupted life in a much more intrusive way. At least we already know contingencies are needed, and we can 4. Explore resources. Is technology money available start making attempts to address those now. to purchase SmartMusic for your classroom and Some concerns that COVID-19 has brought to the forefront students rather than paying for it out of your band are not new, but more pronounced during these times. For budget, or requiring your students to purchase it? instance, more students may have financial hardships than Will the curriculum budget or library funds cover you have experienced in previous years. This may be more the cost of a set of school-owned method books of an issue for orchestra and band more than for choir, since students could check out? Is there a business that instruments are needed to participate. Some parents are may be willing to cover such a cost if asked? Books going through financial hardships due to job loss or are not necessarily a large expense, but during this suspended work that shifts their priorities, and this could particular time, anything could help. Previous make participation in music a challenge. Even those who students may be willing to donate gently used books have the needed resources may be more hesitant to commit as well. to buying an instrument during this time of hardship. Some possible solutions to help in this area are: Question 2: If we do not go back to school this semester, how will I recruit students? 1. Transparency. Music educators can help combat Good news! Even if you feel like you have not started this by being as transparent as possible. Keep recruiting for next year, you have! In a previous article parents and students in your program informed of (Todd, 2013) I discussed different types of recruiting what is happening. Make contact with them by methods. Three ideas from that article apply here: Tradition, sending an encouraging email or a recording of a selling your program, and being the face of the program. past performance. Don’t let parents forget the Your music program already has a reputation in the experience they had in your music programs and community that is recognized by students and parents. In that they are valued on a personal level. fact, several parents may have participated in the program. Inform new recruits of fees and requirements Oftentimes, some of the recruiting you need to do has upfront, perhaps earlier in the process than usual. already been done for you—you just have to capitalize on it. Provide fee lists for parents of instruments at various price points so parents can compare and see 1. Social media. Don’t have a band social media options. When doing this I often like to have three presence? Now is the time to start one! Pick a categories: Preferred, Exceptional, and Acceptable. platform and go for it. Facebook tends to serve Explain that there are other options out there, but parents, and Instagram and others tend to serve for student success, they should consult you before students more. You can use more than one purchasing something not on the list. If renting a platform and connect them, or choose the one school instrument for a lower cost is an option, then that works for you. let parents know that although their particular instrument of choice may not be available, the 2. Advertise. Find ways to highlight your music opportunity to participate still is. program on your school and music website, and on social media pages. Highlight past group 2. Instrument drive. Start an instrument drive now! accomplishments, post a student of the week Ask former students and parents to clean out their and highlight current students and alumni. closets, and if they have an instrument not being used that they are willing to donate, set up a way for 3. Involve your students. Create a hashtag for this to occur. Many people are “spring cleaning” as students that includes the name of your school they are confined to their homes. Getting this and program (e.g., information out there now may help them decide to #cupcakemidddleschoolchoir). Give your donate an instrument to your program rather than students a weekly challenge to post their favorite to a second-hand store or selling it. If they do band picture or a performance video of your decide to donate to your program, check to see if group. Have them post pictures from a group they can get a receipt for a tax write off. Depending trip, or of them performing individually. Have on how your booster program or parent them share pictures wearing their band or organization is set up this may be possible. If you school t-shirts during COVID-19 at-home do not have a band parent organization, perhaps activities. running the donations through the school parent Additionally, most of your students have association would allow this to occur. Explore your younger friends, and they could serve as great options. You may even find someone willing to recruiters. Encourage students to invite at least purchase an instrument for your school. 31 ala breve

one potential recruit to “like” your social media shouldn’t be a problem since you are a school page or have an “invite a friend” challenge. Have system employee, but check your school’s rules. all of your band students invite at least one It may be possible but has never been done person by written invitation to join your choir, because no one asked. band, or orchestra. You can provide the 8. Go virtual. Virtual opportunities may be invitation to make this easier. unfamiliar territory for some directors, but 4. Be virtually present. During this time of consider taking an event you always host and isolation, consider being “the face” of your turning it into a virtual event. For instance, you program virtually. Post on your school, may have scheduled a concert for recruitment program, and personal social media accounts: purposes at a local elementary school that was not just about events and pertinent information, canceled. Replace this concert with a virtual but with messages from you. Create short event for students and parents to attend. If you recorded videos of encouragement, or branch have a recording of your ensemble, share it out and join TikTok (If you are unsure of what virtually in a group-viewing situation that can be that is, ask a student! They know!), and share hosted through a service such as Zoom. If you those videos across multiple platforms! You can do not have a recording of your group, host a create short videos of yourself playing your watch party for one of the several online events instrument, demonstrating various instruments, streaming for free online. For example, many and showing music you intend to play upon orchestras are giving free streamed return to school among other things. Wear your performances. Or, find a recording of your school or band shirt to serve as advertisement. I favorite professional band, choir, or orchestra don’t recommend friending students on social and host a watch party. By hosting the party, you media, but sharing from your personal account can answer questions and make comments in addition to your school account could be seen throughout the performance in the comment by a potential student, and someone on your section, or you can pause the recording to point friends list may recruit a student for you. out certain instruments, etc. 9. Online sessions. Host a question and answer 5. Traditional delivery. Even with social media session using Facebook Live, Instagram, Zoom, and website options, do not discount the power etc. You can also pre-record an interest meeting of “old school” delivery. Send information to where you give pertinent information about parents and students by creating a postcard or your program and the opportunities available to flier that can be mailed (and shared on social parents and students, then post it on your media/websites). Ask your principal about website and/or social media. available funds and access to addresses. To keep Question 3: If students do join my program, how will costs down, postcards are cheaper to send than they be placed on instruments? letters/fliers. Consider giving fliers to the school This question is more specific for instrumentalists, but very to pass out to students who are picking up important. assignments, documents, or lunches during this 1. Right now, give yourself permission to do time. Just remember to do this at the elementary something different. With such uncertainty, it is school that feeds your program if it is a not feasible to set concrete deadlines and goals. different school. This will only lead to frustration and disappointment. Instead, set up a general plan 6. Phone calls. Parents will have questions and that you can implement anytime. Consider concerns that only you can answer, and they talking to your administration, and reminding may not ask unless they are encouraged. Do not them how your program works; there may be hesitate to schedule online video conferences or schedule changes needed the first few weeks of simple phone calls with parents to make that school, encourage them to give you a deadline personal connection. It takes time but calling all for these as soon as possible. parents to extend an invitation for their child to 2. To make final instrument selections, many join your group can be very beneficial. If you schools host instrument petting zoos or testing feel uncomfortable doing this, create a script so days. If you have not already done this, it may you don’t have to remember everything you plan not be possible currently, and will have to occur to share. at a much later date than usual. That is okay. Take this time to get students committed to 7. Email. Parents get a ton of emails, but perhaps joining your group, and if they don’t have during this time of sensitive information, they instruments when school begins, teach are checking it more often and more carefully. fundamental music concepts. Some schools do See if your school can give you access to email this regularly and find it beneficial. I had a band addresses for parents of upcoming students, that did not get instruments until after Labor and send them an email with the flier to introduce yourself and invite them to join your program. If obtaining emails is not possible, ask if you can email the school a letter/flier and have them email it to the parents for you. This 32 May/June 2020

recruiting, but that we alter actions to fit current challenges and use resources you may not always consider. Be kind to yourself. Don’t hesitate to try something new. Explore iscussion groups on social media. Music teachers are resilient, and they make it through many struggles daily, COVID-19 will be no different. Day and by the holiday programs to help expose Sources and Recommended Reading: concert they were as far your students to available Centers for Disease Control and along as any other group I options. For instance, Prevention. (2020, March). ever had. websites such as Be Part Coronavirus (COVID-19). In the meantime, an of the Music by Scott https://www.cdc.gov/coronaviru alternative may be to Lang are ready to use now s/2019-ncov/index.html create a video showing and could relieve your DANSR Vandoren (n.d.). An the different instruments stress. Band and orchestra interview with Scott Lang. Be part that actually includes you options are available. of the music: A recruitment, and your voice. Including No matter which method(s) of retention, and advocacy program. yourself is an important recruitment you choose, perhaps the https music-a-recruitment- aspect because your most important action to be successful retention-and-advocacy-program excitement and is to Follow up! There are many high Drydyk, K. (2019) Recruiting encouragement will help priority concerns worldwide, and it is beginning string players. Blue guide students and make feasible to think that participation in Grass News, Fall 2019, 13. them feel more music six months from now is not at https://online.flippingbook.com/ comfortable and the top of that list. A phone call or view/39327/12/ connected. This exposure email can make a difference. Lang, S. (2019). Be part of the could help students know No doubt recruitment is an important music. https Todd, E. D. (2013). their interests and jump- aspect of all music programs, and Getting students in the seats! Ala start the selection process these new conditions we are Breve, May/June, 31-35. when they do get to play experiencing can cause anxiety and Victoria, H. (2012) Practical instruments post- stress. As with many approaches to tips for recruiting new COVID-19. online instruction, it is not important singers to your choir. Choir 3. Use already developed that we reinvent the wheel regarding Resources. https://www.totalchoirreso ala breve urces.com/practical-tips- for-recruiting-new-singers/ WALTER, W. G., & CHAFFEY, D. (1959). Bacteriological and cleaning studies on the mouthpieces of musical instruments. Applied Microbiology, 7(2), 126–130. https Dr. Danielle Todd is Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Music Education at Northern Kentucky University. This article first appeared in Bluegrass Music News, the official publicaton of the Kentucky Music Educators Association, and is reprinted here with permission of the author. 33

How To Teach Instrumental Lessons Online by Dr. Matt Leder Introduction: with your students. I would suggest that you are familiar with a variety of online platforms. What may work for I have been teaching online lessons for over 10 years and while I one student, may not work for another. Consider the do not consider myself the expert in online teaching, I have had immediate change for the student. Meet them halfway a lot of success with students online. There are some in the with technology they are already familiar with! Facetime, teaching industry that are very skeptical of online teaching, Skype, Facebook Messenger Video, Gmail Video, especially within the applied lesson setting. If online teaching in Google HangOuts, Zoom, etc. are all possibilities. You the applied lesson area is inadequate, why have I had so much don’t have to know every online platform but be success? My online students have made All-State, have been familiar with a few of them to give students options. awarded graduate assistantships, won various auditions, or simply 3. There are countless resources available to you! There become better musicians. It’s been extremely rewarding to have are several online forums on Facebook, advice on an impact on students all over the globe. I have had students Music Education websites, and YouTube videos that across the nation, in Canada, and Europe. The most difficult task will walk you through the various functions. How many has been to remember what time zone they are in! I hope that of us that own a car or home and have watched a some of my experiences and thoughts will help those educators YouTube video to “fix” something ourselves? Reach that have been forced into online instruction. out to colleagues if needed. Use your resources! 4. When meeting a student online, remember rules of A Few Things To Keep In Mind: etiquette. If you are working with a younger student, I always permit a parent or guardian to be present 1. Do not panic! Embrace the change and stay positive. during the lesson. Remember to dress professionally. 2. Become familiar with online platforms before working This doesn’t mean you have to put on a tux to teach 34 May/June 2020

an online lesson, but I’d argue that you should not have speakers set up around the office. I feel like they teach in an old T-Shirt. You can still maintain a are in the room with me! I have seen some colleagues professional environment in an online setting. This is that state they are not comfortable teaching online especially important considering the one-to-one ratio lessons, so they will simply ask students to only submit in teaching. Also, please keep your camera angle in recordings for feedback. Written feedback is great, but I mind while teaching. would urge that social interaction will become even 5. It will take some time to get into the “groove” of more important in the days ahead. Have your students teaching online instrumental lessons. Be patient and try submit recordings but meet with your students online to learn from each lesson. Possibly keep a notepad by so that you can mentor their development on a more the computer so that you can make notes in between personal level! lessons and then reflect on what you can do better at the end of the day. When teaching, try to find an area that is free from 6. Go into your first lesson, and possibly second distractions. If you have kids or other family members lesson, online with the goal of sorting out logistics in the house, make them aware of your teaching and connection issues. If you teach anything beyond schedule. I’ve been teaching for so long that our three that, it’s icing on the cake. Don’t worry, you and your kids know they are not to disturb dad while he is in the student will figure things out and will be well on your practice studio! This goes without saying, but don’t way! have other online windows open while teaching. I 7. If you are teaching several applied lessons back to would recommend only working within the one back, I’d recommend that you give yourself a break window unless you need to find a resource for the in between lessons. I typically teach 50-minute lesson. Be respectful and focus on the student! lessons, with a 10-minute break between so that I can review notes on the next student or just take a Make sure your camera angle is set for teaching. If you mental break! are using your phone or iPad to teach, make sure your 8. At the end of each lesson, I would advise typing up camera is not looking up at you (no one wants to look expectations for the next lesson. This can be done in up your nose). If you are using a phone or iPad, make a chat window or an email to a student. If you have a sure it is propped up so that you are facing the student. lot of students, this is I would recommend that you plug in your phone or iPad into an outlet so that you never lose power during well worth it! It helps keep the student organized a lesson. Most camera angles from a computer are and it helps remind you of what your student great. If you are using an external camera, make sure it was assigned. is set up the way you want it prior to starting the lesson call. Setting Up For Online Instruction In terms of setting up a schedule for teaching, I would In a perfect world, both student and instructor would recommend that you assign a regular meeting time each have high speed Internet, high end microphones with week for each student so that the volume of students audio interfaces, and possibly multiple screens. does not overwhelm you. Advise students to log on However, most of us will not have that luxury prior to their assigned lesson time so that you do not considering the circumstances we are all in. I have lose any time. The instructor should initiate the call recently seen some awesome home set ups, but again when they are ready to begin the lesson. most of us will not have this luxury. Everyone can teach on a basic level using the microphone input on Instrumental Applied Lesson Pedagogy your laptop, desktop computer, or their phone! Yes, as a gigging musician I have taught lessons over my If you have never taught an applied lesson online, it is iPhone while on the road. You can work on basic different! Over the years of teaching online lessons, I fundamentals, basic concepts, notes, and rhythms. have discovered some good practices and I am happy to share them here. Given that many of us will be Sound on the Internet is compressed. Be patient and forced to teach in this environment, I will also offer flexible. If you need to get into the “weeds” of sound some thoughts and suggestions. (perhaps one of the most important fundamentals), I would suggest that students record themselves with 1. Encourage your students that things will be their phone. If they are fortunate to have a H4N Zoom okay! Use this time as a ‘gift” to improve your product or other recording device, they could record craft. Look on the positive side, the commute themselves and send it through shared Google Drive or is awesome! Drop Box. Regardless, recording yourself is an extremely useful tool in teaching! You can also use 2. Have your student warm up before the earbuds with a microphone to make things a bit clearer. lesson, unless you want to cover a warm-up I bought a home movie surround sound system and routine. ala breve 3. Have the student log on before the assigned 35

lesson time and the instructor will initiate the call 9. You can use play-alongs during the lesson. Have the when they are ready. Instructor’s monitor your student pull up a separate window with a YouTube time while teaching so that you are on time for the backing track and have them turn up the volume. If next lesson. Also, I would recommend a 10- they are working on a transcription, you can have minute break between lessons so that you can them play along with the original recording. I have review lesson notes or take a mental break. done this for years and it works great! Note: Make 4. If you are using your phone to teach, make sure sure any backing track that is played is on their side! your do not disturb is set so that your lesson is Otherwise, there could be a delay. not interrupted. 5. I would recommend that the instructor has some 10. Students can have a metronome playing in water and a perhaps a notepad to take notes background while they are performing an exercise available before the lesson begins. or solo. I have had students use metronomes on 6. Have the student set up the phone/computer in a their phone while they are on their computer or way that you can monitor posture and physical they can pull up a separate window to google technique. If a horn player is playing, I would metronome applications. Again, make sure the advise that they face away from the computer when sound is originating on their side. Otherwise, there playing. If a horn player plays directly into the could be a delay. computer screen the student can get load sound reflections from the screen, it is difficult to evaluate 11. Have your students record themselves! This is a the embouchure, and there are times (especially in great way to monitor progress and I find that I the extreme upper register) where the mic can listen in greater detail to their sound away from the short out. The video will remain intact, but the live lesson. Recordings can be submitted via sound will fade to nothing. The sound will return in Dropbox, Google Drive, etc. a moment, but just be aware this can happen. Most of the time my students are playing in the mid 12. Before you log off the lesson, summarize what register and I never have a problem. If you need to was covered in the lesson and go over teach someone in the upper register, I would advise expectations for the next one. changing the mic settings or simply backing away from the microphone as you would in 13. When you log off the lesson, type out a summary performance! of expectations for the lesson in a chat window or 7. Online teaching is a lot of stop/start. I play, you email. This is a record for both you and the play! I’m okay with that. Modeling is a great way student! to teach! You may want to teach in smaller sections to give quicker feedback, but there are 14. Be patient with your students. This is a new times when I will have a student play the whole platform for many and remember humor can tune, so I give an overall impression of the larger be a long way. Be personable! work. Feel free to take notes while the student in performing. 15. There are countless artists that are putting out free 8. Be creative in your assignments. I have had a few online warm-ups online or instructional videos. conversations with Branford Marsalis on the There are Facebook groups that are encouraging pedagogy of “listening”. Every one of my students collaboration. Share ideas of what you are working are required to listen to YouTube videos or CD’s on in the “woodshed”. Contribute to online each week. The first time we initiate the listening groups such as “Jam of the Week”. Social assignment, I just have them listen to five collaboration online can be a positive thing! recordings and write a paragraph describing what Perhaps create a private Facebook group where they hear. The next lesson I read over their students in a studio can share performing videos reflections and I can tell “how” they are listening. of the week, etc. There are countless possibilities! At that point, we talk about best practices in “active listening” and we assign five more artists to 16. Encourage composition for your more advanced listen to for the next lesson. Through this students. Encourage readings for your students. continued process we improve listening skills and There are great books and articles out there that we help put direction into their desired are fantastic for developing a musician. Read about development. The results are incredible! When a pedagogy or history! This would be a great time to student has studied with me for a long period of learn about the people behind the music! Be time, they are familiar with a large list of artists and creative in your assignments. Students will have they have been exposed to a lot of music! Note: I time on their hands. Let’s be productive! would have students write out a short paragraph for each recording. During the lesson they can 17. Have students move back to see breathing and summarize while they look at their notes. posture. Have students move closer to camera if you need to get a closer look at their embouchure. Sometimes you can get closer than you might in person! Sample Lesson Structure ** Let’s say the lesson starts at 2pm via Facetime, Skype, Facebook Video, or another online platform. Make sure you are 36 May/June 2020



Marching Scarlet & Grey Huntingdon Winds & Jazz HUNTINGDON BANDS BallHawks Pep Band Huntingdon College Bands Honor Bands: huntingdon.edu/bands @huntingdonbands Email: [email protected] Huntingdon College is committed to a policy against legally impermissible, arbitrary, or unreasonable discriminatory practices. Huntingdon College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and the Associate of Arts. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Huntingdon College. The Huntingdon College music program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

logged on and everything is working properly. Have water, of expectations for the next lesson in a chat window or email. notepad, pen/pencil, music stand (if needed), and any other Then, get ready for the next lesson. materials needed. Make sure you as the instructor are warmed up, General Thoughts dressed properly, and are in an area that is free from distraction. Make sure your household knows your schedule and put your · Be empathic during this time. This is a new phone on do not disturb (especially if you are using your phone environment for both students and teachers. Be patient to teach). and understand that things may go wrong. You don’t have to be perfect to make an online lesson work. 1:50 PM: Review student notes and possibly take a pic or write down expectations that were created for the lesson to serve as an · Be reasonable with your expectations when assigning outline. work! This will be a difficult time and you do not to add any additional stress. Small battles in the “woodshed” 2:00 PM: Call the student via the online platform function. can have profound effects to the overall development in a student. 2:01 PM: After an initial greeting (again be personable, we are all going to need social interaction during this time period), I ask · Be flexible with your students, but also make sure that about their listening assignment. I have the student explain who they are aware they need to adhere to specific lesson they are listening to and what they notice in the recordings. We times. If a student is late logging in and your lesson can discuss “active listening” concepts or have meaningful goes over the assigned time, you will run into issues. conversations about artists or their desired development. Sometimes I will assign specific artists for them check out for the · Be prepared and have a plan for the online lesson. next week or I will leave it open for them to choose. You could Structure is important. also use this time to discuss any readings assigned. Final Thoughts 2:15 PM: I ask the students perform any technical exercises assigned. Be specific in expectations from one lesson to another. Like most technology, it is constantly changing! I would Assign specific page numbers in books and metronome recommend joining the various Facebook Online Groups that markings with concrete goals. Work on scales or any patterns are consistently adding resources. One for example includes assigned. Listen, then demonstrate! Remember, modeling is a “Higher Ed Music Lessons in the Time of COVID-19”. great teaching tool. Assign work for the next week. Sometimes I recycle the expectations from the prior week if needed or I have Contact students refine this week’s exercises while assigning new material. I have found students really like seeing progress in a I’m happy to serve as a resource moving forward. I’m also happy book. Some students (especially younger students) will not want to evolve this document with input from everyone reading. Please to work on fundamentals. As we all know, fundamentals are feel free to contact me at: or on Facebook Messenger (matt leder), extremely important in facilitating growth and development in or through my website (http://mattleder.com). As Clark Terry our students. If they are not into the exercises you are assigning, would say, “Keep on Keepin’ On”! be creative and find another resource to cover the fundamental that needs to be addressed. For example, I have found that a lot Dr. Matt Leder is Music Director/Instructor at of my students really enjoy Scott Belk’s lip flexibility books in Gadsden State Community College. Dr. Leder has been that they sound “cool” in the “woodshed”. There are lots of a professional musician for over 20 years, serving as an resources out there! active duty Navy & Air Force musician for a total of 12 years & performing in supporting ensembles with 2:30 PM: Repertoire. I will divide this section with etudes and any Bob Mintzer, Benny Green, Nicholas Payton, & Ellis transcriptions assigned. Sometimes I will work on certain sections. Marsalis. Matt is an in-demand guest artist, clinician, Other times I will have the student perform the whole work for a & private instructor, including through his online broader perspective. Remember modeling is a great teaching tool! studio. Matt holds a DA in Music Ed. from the Give specific feedback and possibly assign recording assignments. University of Northern Colorado, a MM in Jazz If they were assigned to record, I will discuss feedback in between Studies from the University of New Orleans, & a BM in Jazz Performance the fundamental session and the repertoire section to give their from East Carolina University. Dr. Leder’s dissertation, “Towards An chops a break. Manage your time wisely by keeping an eye on the Informed Pedagogy of Modern New Orleans Style,” describes New Orleans clock every so often. It is easy to lose track of time while teaching style & offers possibilities of adding this syntax of jazz into the modern Online, but you will get into the rhythm of things. classroom. Dr. Leder has also served on the faculties of Northern New Mexico College, Brown University, University of Colorado at Denver, 2:45 PM: Summarize what was covered in the lesson and be Community College of Rhode Island, & St. George's School & was a specific in what is assigned for next week. Be positive, 2017 National Endowment of Humanities Summer Scholar at Tulane personable, and encouraging. University. 2:50 PM: Log off with the student. Type up a quick summary ala breve 39

BAND MUSIC positives in a world full of challenges REVIEWS and difficult times. One of the challenges of making smart program by Randall Coleman choices for our ensembles has been simply finding the time to listen to all of the new music that is available to us. As we find ourselves with a tremendous adjustment with our daily lives now, I hope that we can all find time to find just the right curriculum to start the fall semester…and maybe get things ready for spring as well! The three pieces that I have chosen to bring to you are all new pieces from the most recent catalogs. Be on the lookout for all the newest music from composers and publishers over the next few months. Happy listening! As I write this article, it is the beginning of Day 22 in my Michael Oare has provided us with so “Shelter in Place” experience. I’m sure I could devote the many outstanding pieces over the years. entire article to all of the many things we’ve all learned Michael’s works are always well-crafted and are always during the past weeks…but I think there is one thing that excellent teaching pieces for young bands. His works we all can agree on that we have realized during this period always find ways to strengthen concepts that are taught is that we miss our students. Being a part of the band during the first few years of a player’s development. One means so much to so many of our students…and being of his most recent works, Deluge, is written for your first- able to share making music with them means so much to year students and is a piece that will definitely hold the us. When something that important to us has been taken interest of your students. Easy and repetitive rhythm away from us, it is hard to not feel pain. I hope with the patterns, a minor mode, and pleasing, mostly stepwise time that we all now have with the closing of our school melodies combine to create a piece that you will appreciate buildings that we have time to begin to plan for the fall for its educational benefits and your students will really when, hopefully, we will all be back to some type of enjoy playing. Age-appropriate scoring and technical normalcy. We have all had to re-think how and what we challenges will certainly help your students solidify those do in so many ways and we have been forced to find important concepts of counting rests, entrances that occur on counts other than “1” and well-conceived percussion writing make Deluge a welcome addition to the young band repertoire. The reference recording and video score may be found here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=IQmd6vyLxDA I have long been a fan of Rossano Galante’s writing. I first remember programming his piece Raise of the Son in the late 1990s. His works are almost always rooted in his cinematic background, having studied with Jerry Goldsmith at the University of Southern California. All of Galante’s works are “listener- friendly” and are audience favorites. His works, while 44 May/June 2020

beautifully lyrical in nature, provide technical challenges Embrace…A Sigh” is very lyrical in nature. Utilizing some that may prohibit grade 3 or 4 ensembles from challenging key signatures, this movement allows the programming them. One of his latest works, The Wishing students and conductor the opportunity to showcase Well, is a slight departure from his previous works. While musical expression and musicianship and requires the offering the beautiful, soaring lyrical lines, The Wishing Well students to play with mature sounds throughout. The falls within the Grade 3-4 level and might be the perfect movement also contains really tastefully written percussion piece for bands at this level to be able to experience his parts as well. The composer has written a very beautiful writing. The rhythmic construction is quite simple, melody with elegant harmonic accompaniment that I utilizing primarily quarter notes and eighth notes, while the know both you and your students will enjoy. harmonic structure is constructed by the use of The fourth and final movement, “A Wave Goodbye; Teaching accidentals throughout the piece. There are solos written Toward the Horizon” brings this engaging work to a thrilling for flute, clarinet, and oboe (cued for flute as well) and the close utilizing 6/8 meter with hemiola at just the right piece contains technical challenges for the extended range times. As the movement progresses through several key for trumpets and exposed lyrical lines for the horn section, changes, each instrument group has an opportunity to play which is a “Galante trademark”. Tastefully written mallet melodic material that your students will enjoy, and your percussion parts also add to the lyrical, almost dream-like audience will love hearing. After a dramatic 4/4 section, atmosphere created by this work. If you have flute, oboe, the tempo picks up for the coda and brings the entire work and clarinet soloists you would like to feature, this piece to a rousing conclusion. I encourage you to check out does the trick. I also think that having a flute cover the Gestures. It is a departure from what we normally expect oboe solo would work really well for this piece, if need be. from the composer and I hope he will offer us more works I hope you will give The Wishing Well a listen. I think you similar to Gestures. A recording of the work may be found will really like the opportunities it provides your students at the following link: to showcase their talents. The score and recording are https://soundcloud.com/randall-standridge/gestures- available here: https://www.youtube.com movements-1-4 /watch?v=jtl0xZdIZy4&list=RDjtl0xZdIZy4&start_radio It is my hope that by the time this article reaches you that =1 we are all on the recovery side of these incredible and Randall Standridge has several works that have become unique times that we are currently experiencing. Having extremely popular among band directors who work with lost precious time with our students this semester, the young bands. When I adjudicate, his compositions are energy, excitement, and anticipation we all feel for what we very popular and seem to be programmed quite a bit. His hope is a “normal” start to our classes in the fall is at an works have primarily been targeted for middle school all-time high for each of us. Let us all keep these same ensembles, with only a few pieces targeted for high school feelings in our hearts and minds as we work our way and college ensembles. I was delighted to find his new through the new school year. Our students deserve piece Gestures and think that it is an excellent addition to nothing less. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can the repertoire for advanced high school groups and some be of assistance to you or your program. collegiate ensembles as well. Gestures was commissioned by the University of Northern Colorado to celebrate the Randall Coleman retirement of their long-time director of bands. The piece Associate Director of Bands is a delightful four-movement work with each movement The University of Alabama offering distinctly different styles, or “gestures”, that Conductor and Music Director combine for an enjoyable 8-minute work. The first Alabama Winds movement, “A Smile and a Firm Handshake” begins with the ensemble playing “as if warming up before a concert, then coming to rest on an indicated note on cue”, which makes for a perfect concert opener! Movement 1 is fast-paced and has the ensemble alternating between the meters of 4/4 and 7/8, which provides a delight melody that sets the stage for the remainder of the piece. The second movement, titled “An Invitation to Dance and a Poke in Ribs”, is another brisk, brief movement that asks the ensemble to maintain the tempo marking of quarter note equals 196. The movement alternates between a cut-time feel and a 4/4 feel and requires that the ensemble play the fast- moving eighth notes in the proper style to maintain the quick tempo of the movement. The third movement, “An ala breve 45

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