They have worked as professional musicians, taught in several school districts, and even created a children's educational music video series, all while raising five kids of their own. But as they move into yet another chapter of their careers as music educators, Chuck and Mary Lynn McMichael are still crazy after all these years. Crazy about…

No matter how dedicated they may be, some teachers are daunted by extreme challenges. Carol Agler, music director at the Ohio State School for the Blind (OSSB), is not one of those teachers. Since joining the OSSB staff 11 years ago, Agler has revived the school's long-dormant band program and created its first marching band. Next January, she…

This article profiles Beth Gilbert, a veteran Arizona string teacher who finds inspiration in teamwork--and her students. Growing up in Ohio, Gilbert enjoyed participating in her high school orchestra. Nevertheless she entered the University of Arizona as a marine biology major, choosing a field of study that she had planned to parlay into a…

In this article, the author shares the background of James Daugherty in music education, a band director who was elected to serve as president of the North Carolina Bandmasters Association, the highest leadership role for a band director in the state. His passion for music only grew in high school, where he gleaned both musical and life lessons…

After spending nearly a decade performing in musical theater, David Ladd found the role of a lifetime teaching choir and chairing the music department at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois. And there's no doubt his enthusiasm and life experience have made a dramatic impact on the school's program, which received Grammy National Signature…

Travel of any sort--to performances, competitions, or other events--can be a bonding, life-broadening experience for students and teachers alike. For students, travel offers unparalleled learning opportunities. However, for teachers, travel can sometimes be a logistical nightmare. Gearing up for trips requires plenty of advance planning, precise…