More to Start, Fewer to Quit! - August 2024

Prior to the start of the school year, finalize your preparations for recruiting. Double check that all dates, times and facilities are scheduled with school personnel. Have sufficient copies of all necessary handouts and forms. Confirm your music dealer’s role in the recruitment process. Use available media outlets, newspapers, shoppers, district, school and PTA newsletters, websites and social media sources to provide information about how and when students will be able to join your school’s band or orchestra program.

Early in the school year, schedule a “Back to Band” or “Back to Orchestra” night for parents and families at your school. Make this an informal 30-minute concert. Have students perform a few lines from their method books or music they are currently rehearsing. Let parent(s)/guardian(s) see and hear this work in progress. Take time to share important dates for the school year and re-affirm the important role they play in their child’s success. Conclude with some light refreshments and time to interact with/for those who attend.

Make music listening a regular part of your students’ experience. Have music playing when students enter the room or dedicate a few minutes during rehearsal to listen to music. Include a variety of styles and genres. Don’t limit selections to only band or orchestra music. Let students know what they are listening to and what they should be listening for.

Thanks,

Dr. Charles T. Menghini

Dr. Charles T. Menghini is President Emeritus of VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. Menghini and served as Professor of Music and Director of Bands from 1994 – 2017. Charlie is co-author of the Essential Elements Band Method published by Hal Leonard, serves as an Educational Member of the Music Achievement Council for NAMM.