Many band directors are frustrated by sub-par performances from their ensembles and mistakenly blame their students. My 33 years of conducting and observing have helped me identify some common band rehearsal mistakes that lead to poor performances.
Using MusicProfessor Video Lessons with Students
The MakeMusic Cloud Video lessons library is full of MusicProfessor Level 1 videos (for winds, strings, and percussion). MusicProfessor video lessons are professionally recorded, sequential, bite-sized lessons taught by master pedagogues on each included instrument.
New Feature: Rostering!
We are excited to share the newest (and most efficient!) way to bring students into your classes on MakeMusic Cloud: Rostering!
Power Up! Smart Solutions for Solo Contest
Alicia DeSoto & Chris Meredith are currently band directors at Lewisville High School in Lewisville ISD, TX.
We have been using MakeMusic Cloud (formerly SmartMusic) for a number of years now and one of our favorite applications is the impact of providing students with accompaniment tracks for their solos that can be adjusted for the performance speed of each individual performer.
Holiday Cheer from MakeMusic Cloud
In the midst of holiday performances, celebrations, and general busy schedules, we want to share some holiday cheer with you from our team here at MakeMusic Cloud.
Performed at Midwest 2022
The 76th Annual Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra, and Music Conference takes place in Chicago December 19-22, 2022.
What began in 1946 as a way for directors to explore new repertoire has grown to an annual worldwide extravaganza, with 18,000+ attendees from more than 40 countries.
MakeMusic Cloud December 2022 Repertoire Update
Last month, MakeMusic Cloud (SmartMusic) added 67 interactive titles to the music catalog. Discover new favorites among the continuous new repertoire updates included with your regular subscription.
Five Philosophers Consider Jazz Repertoire Selection
Repertoire selection is the most important job of any director. Great repertoire can culminate and demonstrate of all of the learning that has taken place during rehearsals.
Practicing with Purpose: Motivating Student Practice
Teaching students to practice is one of the most important (and overlooked) aspects of music instruction. When students are armed with effective techniques of individual practice, they become more efficient in the practice room and feel a sense of accomplishment that leads to consistent practice habits.
They Are What They Eat: Literature Selection
Does curriculum drive literature selection? Or does literature selection drive curriculum?
If choosing one option leaves you feeling a bit uncomfortable or dissatisfied, perhaps you’d agree that there is a two-way flow.