The F-flat Books Blog is a community-run blog exploring a variety of topics in music teaching and learning.
Browse posts by category or check out the most recent posts below.
The power of a microphone in a safe space
I remember playing an original song at my first open mic night. I was 17 years old and a senior in high school. Until that point, I had written some original songs that I would play around with but never felt confident with my voice or playing to do anything with them. I met some friends at school interested in playing music, and we formed a little trio--acoustic guitar, keyboard, and vocals. My friend Leah had the most incredible voice I'd ever heard. If I couldn't sing my [...]
Musicast Episode 23: Emily Desmond- Bringing the Real World into the Classroom
Emily Desmond, singer/songwriter from Massachusetts sits down with Maggie and Marissa to talk about her work as a musician, teacher, and so much more! Check out how she brings her music into a classroom that's specifically designed for students with special needs. [...]
The Asterisk: Ableist Language
Welcome to The Asterisk*, a new regular column where we’ll chat about diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in music education. The function of an asterisk is to quickly give readers a baseline of knowledge so the reader can dive into content. This column aims to introduce or refresh deia concepts in a judgment-free space and provide ideas for incorporating deia principles into your teaching practice. Happy Music in Our Schools Month, Women’s History Month, AND Brain Injury Awareness Month! Today I’d like to talk about ableism and ableist [...]
Musicast Episode 22: Kevin Coyne – An Innovator’s Mindset
Kevin Coyne is an amazing middle general music teacher pushing the limits of what is possible and exciting students at the same time. With a focus on informal learning and working towards a music education for all, Kevin talks to the Musicast team about his classroom and all the amazing work he is doing! [...]
Musicast “Episode” 20: News and Updates!
Franklin Willis is taking the Music Education world by storm! From his new book, Edward's Rhythm Sticks, to the amazing work he does with children and teachers everyday, he is an inspiration to listen to and learn from. You don't want to miss this episode! [...]
A Composer’s Perspective: Composing Vocal Music for Young Singers
I am Donna Rhodenizer. I am a composer. It took me a long time to grow into the label and embrace it as part of my musical skills. When I was a young music student, I wrote little “ditties” that I would play on the piano. In high school there was a serious song about my “one true, forever love” (which ended when I went to university) and a three-part choral arrangement I wrote for my high school choir as part of a grade 12 music class assignment. [...]
Musicast Episode 19: Franklin Willis – The Power of Living Your Teacher Truth
Franklin Willis is taking the Music Education world by storm! From his new book, Edward's Rhythm Sticks, to the amazing work he does with children and teachers everyday, he is an inspiration to listen to and learn from. You don't want to miss this episode! [...]