This book provides both new and experienced music educators with much-needed advice drawn from credible research and established approaches, but also includes practical application for the incredible variety of music classrooms that teachers face today. Kevin Mixon adapts research-based theories to fit typical situations that are not always ideal. Exploring such topics as recruiting and retention, garnering program support, teaching for diverse learning styles and exceptional students, introducing notation, composition, and improvisation, Mixon provides practical advice that maximizes classroom and rehearsal time. After a Foreword and Introduction, this book contains the following chapters: (1) Getting Students Started; (2) Maintaining Interest; (3) Gaining Support; (4) Maximizing Rehearsal Time; (5) Teaching for Diverse Learning Styles; (6) Including Exceptional Learners; (7) Introducing Notation; and (8) Improvisation and Composition. Includes an Afterword.