Phenomenal Private Teacher

One of the most important things you can do for your musical training is to study with a phenomenal private teacher. Since you are reading this blog, you probably already study with someone who is an expert on your instrument – which is great! (If not, find one right away!) But, it’s not just about […]

Virtual Auditions – Yes or No?

“I am not taking the All-State audition this year. It’s not worth it if it’s virtual.” I recently taught an audition preparation class to a group of teen musicians. A couple of the attendees told me that they are not preparing for this year’s All-State audition because they don’t want to bother if it’s virtual. […]

Concert Was Canceled. Now What?

Your favorite teen musician worked their butt off, took an intense audition, WON a spot in a high-end ensemble or festival, started rehearsals, and the event was canceled. Now what? This question has suddenly become common. COVID-19 stopped musical performances and events dead in their tracks, and teens wonder what that means for their level […]

What is a Music Resume?

Whether you plan to major in music or simply play music at the college level, every serious teen musician needs a music resume. But, what is it? A music resume is a formal account of your experience on your instrument. Through it, professors, admission directors, scholarship committees, conductors, and other professionals learn about your training […]

Music Beat Athletics

Several years ago, a student I was teaching had a big primary goal: attend college on a field hockey scholarship. She did all of the right things – captain of a winning team, high-end field hockey camps, All-Star player in her state, and played for lots of college coaches at recruitment events. Everyone knew that […]

Dads and Music Resumes

Wow, Dad, let’s chat. . . By the way, MY Dad is the best guy in the world. My current “beef” (do we still use that term?) is with some of the musical teens’ dads I have met recently. They are AMAZING and well-intentioned, but are making mistakes that could have a negative impact on […]