balk at the added rehearsal on a non- school day. To my surprise, my students enjoyed the experience and viewed it as a very positive use of their time. I’ve tried to repeat the activity each year since. In preparing for the AMEA conference, the sectional component to this must be done before the end of the fall semester. After the break, it is a good idea to have another session with the full band. You can go it alone or invite a director you trust to help your band. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance for your students. By then, all students should know their parts and be focused on the business of making music. The conference is in January! Here are a few selling points you can give your students:


Develop student ownership by representing the school and community.


Receive professional “hands on”


instruction on their instrument from guest clinicians and/or conductor.


Learn parts quickly and efficiently.


Alleviate some of the individual pressure of personal practice time which frees up more time for academic work at home!


Strengthen and develop a sense of ensemble.


Involve food and fellowship, it always helps!


Too much of any of this is a bad thing. Each director must find a balance for the demands on their students’ lives. I am sure this all seems to be common sense to most. To quote my college band director, Dr. David L. Walters, “Common sense is


Gene Inglis is Director of Bands at Saks High School in Anniston, Alabama.


not all that common.”


Ultimately, the entire experience will be a most rewarding experience for your students, your audience, and yourself!


Bravo!


ala breve


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