Redefining the Role of Arranger and Producer Quincy Jones, a trailblazer in the music industry, transformed the art of arrangement and production, setting standards that continue to inspire and inform today’s music professionals. More than just a gifted musician, Jones viewed his work as an arranger and producer [...]
The late Tom Petty would have turned 74 last week – a week that will see milestones like the theatrical release of Cameron Crowe’s 1983 film “Tom Petty: Heartbreakers Beach Party” and the reissue of the 1982 “Long After Dark” album. The Florida singer-songwriter’s impact, seven years after his death, is [...]
As I type this blog post, I'm currently nestled under a blanket and sipping hot tea. In Southern Pennsylvania (where I call home), we get the full spectrum of seasonal changes. Two weeks ago, my kids were swimming in 80 degree weather. Today, there's a chill in [...]
Introduction: The New Paradigm of Music Education The educational world has become a complete whirlwind where music educators are breaking free from the confines of traditional classrooms. Gone are the days when teaching was all about chalkboards, sheet music, and the occasional out-of-tune piano. Now, with digital platforms [...]
How can you lead with equity in your classroom while navigating the various barriers of working in an urban environment? Hello. I am Jammie Phillips, a passionate music teacher with 17 years of experience, 10 of which were spent as a band director. Having taught in Atlanta, Georgia's [...]
The COVID-19 pandemic was, and some could argue still is, a historical event that continues to impact music education and students. Despite the ongoing ripple effects of such a critical event in human history, it almost feels inappropriate to talk about in professional settings. Though, when I discuss [...]
Rejecting Common Narratives This last minute music teacher gift guide may be different than what you're thinking. Since transitioning to working at F-flat Books on a more full-time basis, I've been planning out our blog content months in advance. This week, I scheduled a post about our top [...]
Established in 1993, the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music is Palestine’s first music conservatory. Since then, it has sought to spread a lively and creative musical culture in every Palestinian home by teaching, producing and promoting music in various ways despite the hardships of operating under [...]
Consider what we are intentionally or unintentionally saying we value based on what we cover with our students throughout their time in our classrooms. And, just like that, a conversation about standards-based instruction has entered the chat.
I was speaking with a student teacher about experiencing burnout symptoms and why finding their preferred self-care practices is important. In our discussion, I had mentioned that the most commonly stated piece of advice (whether given as real advice or delivered with an eye roll) is to remember your “why.” Our discussion was helpful, but I realized that the field of teaching can be just as rewarding as it is prickly.