by Ronald E. Kearns (Author)
This book helps band directors teach and develop successful jazz programs in middle schools and high schools. Ronald E. Kearns provides a step-by-step approach to starting a jazz program, teaching jazz performance, and maintaining the program once it has been established. He addresses a variety of topics, including:
- the first steps that need to be taken
- introductory jazz pedagogical skills
- sample lesson plans
- suggested literature
- budget development
- recruiting
- retaining
- classroom management
Oftentimes, band directors--especially those who are classically trained--find themselves woefully unprepared to teach jazz since many colleges and universities only provide a cursory look at teaching or developing a jazz program. This book provides the practical tools to that will help directors overcome these challenges.
Author Biography
Ronald E. Kearns is a retired band, orchestra, and jazz band director. He is a classically trained musician, jazz recording artist, jazz record producer with over forty-five commercially produced recordings and author of three other books for music educators: Quick Reference for Band Directors, Recording Tips for Music Educators, and Quick Reference for Band Directors Who Teach Orchestra.