Quick Pro Tip: Simplifying Copyright and Exploring the ArrangeMe Platform

 Steve and Alan demystify common copyright misconceptions and introduce the ArrangeMe platform, a valuable resource for music educators. Learn how to legally arrange music for your groups, explore the benefits and limitations of ArrangeMe, and discover why copyright matters across band, orchestra, choir, and general music settings. Tune in for practical advice and insights that … Read more

Expanding the Choral Canon: Marques Garrett on Programming Choices Part 2

Steve and Alan talk with professor, author, composer, and choral director Marques Garrett about the importance of diversifying choral programming and elevating non-idiomatic works. Garrett shares fascinating personal experiences learning about the rich musical heritage within historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), where choirs have long championed non-idiomatic compositions by Black artists.  Garrett discusses the … Read more

Expanding the Choral Canon: Marques Garrett on Programming Choices Part 1

Steve and Alan talk with professor, author, composer, and choral director Marques Garrett about the importance of diversifying choral programming and elevating non-idiomatic works. Garrett shares fascinating personal experiences learning about the rich musical heritage within historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), where choirs have long championed non-idiomatic compositions by Black artists.  Garrett discusses the … Read more

2024 Year in Review

 Steve and Alan talk about the past year and preview a bit of what’s coming up in early 2025.

Keeping Ensembles in Time and in Tune

Alan and Steve talk to orchestra director Chris Selby about effective ways to improve musical clarity through intonation and rhythm. Links: Habits of a Successful Orchestra Director Habits of a Successful String Musician Habits of a Successful Young String Musician More Literary Resources Dr. Christopher Selby Dr. Christopher Selby is a 30-year veteran public school … Read more

Quick Pro Tip: Why Articulations Matter—More Than You Think

 In this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of music instruction: articulations. While this topic is essential for band directors working with woodwinds and brass, the conversation also holds valuable insights for orchestra, choir, and general music teachers. Discover why articulations are as crucial as notes and … Read more

Music as a Birthright: A Conversation with Leila Ramagopal Pertl

Steve and Alan explore the ways any K-12 educator can implement the philosophy of music as a student birthright in their classrooms and schools. They discuss strategies for increasing access and opportunities for student creativity and composition, as well as building relationships with administrators to strengthen music education programs. Guest Leila Ramagopal Pertl shares her … Read more