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…

Explains that in order to achieve a balance between the goals of preparing music for performance and developing capable musicians during choral rehearsals, teachers should employ four rehearsal techniques: (1) the Whole/Part/Whole approach; (2) discovering relationships within compositions; (3) repetition with meaning; and (4) gesture-based…

Addresses two questions: (1) What is a charter school?; and (2) What does the creation of these schools mean for music teachers and music-education programs? Defines charter schools, discusses their emergence, and describes three charter-school music programs. (DSK)

Focuses on the program called "Arts Week" that demonstrates the importance of the arts in the lives of students at West Point Gray Academy in Vancouver (British Columbia). Describes Arts Week and discusses the process of creating Arts Week. States that Art Week was a success. (CMK)

Objects to traditional scheduling practices in which band rehearsals are not started until well into the academic year. Argues that starting at the beginning of the year offers numerous advantages. Presents a number of lessons that can be employed in early band rehearsals, even before students are familiar with their instruments. (DSK)

Identifies key aspects of producing talent shows and outlines helpful hints for avoiding pitfalls and ensuring a smooth production. Presents suggestions concerning publicity, scheduling, and support personnel. Describes types of acts along with special needs and problems specific to each act. Includes a list of resources. (MJP)

Recommends turning some of the more tedious aspects of elementary instrumental rehearsals (particularly playing scales) into games. Describes a number of educational games that can be constructed around these activities, including a "Wheel of Fortune" parody. (MJP)

Provides a series of suggestions for improving choral rehearsals and maintaining the students' vocal health. Advocates establishing an adequate warm-up period, allowing drinking water in the rehearsals, and choosing age-appropriate material. Recommends allowing students to rehearse difficult material in a comfortable range. (MJP)