Building Strong Music Programs

A Handbook for Preservice and Novice Music Teachers

By (author) Charlene Ryan

Publication date:

16 March 2009

Length of book:

122 pages

Publisher

R&L Education

Dimensions:

242x163mm
6x10"

ISBN-13: 9781607091219

Building Strong Music Programs uniquely focuses on music programs in the public school community, providing strategies and tools for developing a vibrant music program and building community support. Covering relationships with colleagues, parents, staff, administrators, and the community at large, Charlene Ryan also provides tactics for developing courses, performances, and publicity to enhance your program. Build a repertoire of tried-and-true strategies covering curriculum, classroom management, special needs, concerts, assessment, budget, and more that are based on years of teaching at all levels.

While program building is an essential, time-consuming part of every music teacher's job, students are rarely prepared for it. The questions for discussion and student assignments make this an excellent choice for preservice teacher training courses.
Ryan covers issues important to student teachers, new teachers, teachers changing schools, and teachers looking to rejuvenate their existing programs.

From student trips to music software to district ensembles to advocacy to entry-level instrumental courses, Ryan covers it all in this comprehensive handbook.
Building Strong Music Programs comforts the emerging teacher by assuring him or her that a smooth transition into the profession is possible.This handbook covers a wide variety of practical topics which are either not mentioned or which get short shrift in the typical music education college curriculum. . The real world previews provided will help new teachers weather storms and avoid mistakes which can cause loss of enthusiasm, embarrassment, and premature burn out. It is practical, easily accessible, organized, and a valuable aid, full of sound advice for emerging music teachers who will enter their first jobs mentally and emotionally prepared for the steep learning curve of the first year. Even if this book is used as a text in college student teaching seminars, after graduation it will continue to be a source of comfort and guidance. This handbook is a valuable contribution to the music education literature for neophytes.