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    music ed

    Explore " music ed" with insightful episodes like "Episode 67 - 'Pure Musiking, Commodification and Mental Health' - Adam Ficek", "Episode 66 - 'The Psychology of a Music Teacher' Dr Liz Mellor", "S2E5: Fostering Engagement with Questions, Conviction & Repetition", "Episode 65 - 'The Power of Music Festivals' Elderflowerfields Festival - Dax Debice" and "S2E4: Plan, Reflect Adapt - How to Make Progress in Rehearsal" from podcasts like ""The Music Education Podcast", "The Music Education Podcast", "Conducting Artistry", "The Music Education Podcast" and "Conducting Artistry"" and more!

    Episodes (61)

    S2E5: Fostering Engagement with Questions, Conviction & Repetition

    S2E5: Fostering Engagement with Questions, Conviction & Repetition

    (00:00) Navigating Interpretation and Engagement in Conducting

    In this chapter we discuss how conductors can engage with players and their musical ideas and suggestions, emphasizing the importance of asking questions to help the ensemble think for themselves and understand their role in the music. We also touch on the delicate balance of giving interpretive decision-making to the ensemble while still maintaining cohesion, suggesting the use of a range of questions to guide the ensemble towards a shared understanding of the music. 

     

    (17:21) Effective Rehearsal Strategies and Challenges

    This chapter explores the dynamics of successful and unsuccessful rehearsals, focusing on the frustrations of changing ideas and spending too much time on one passage. We also discuss the importance of nonverbal communication and being aware of individual needs within a group setting. Additionally, we touch on the skill of knowing when to push and when to let go in a rehearsal, highlighting the conductor's role in leading a group practice session. Overall, this chapter provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by both conductors and players in creating a successful rehearsal environment.

     

    (25:11) Improve Conducting and Empathy in Rehearsals

    This chapter focuses on the middle period of rehearsing and how to effectively read the room as a conductor. We discuss the importance of observational skills and listening when working with unfamiliar musicians. The conversation then shifts to how reading the room can also benefit players, allowing them to better understand the conductor's needs and the needs of other sections. 

     

     

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    S2E4: Plan, Reflect Adapt - How to Make Progress in Rehearsal

    S2E4: Plan, Reflect Adapt - How to Make Progress in Rehearsal

    This episode, we're discussing the nitty-gritty of what musicians need from conductors in the middle part of the rehearsal process. Our experiences and insights cover everything from preparation and planning for rehearsals to honing your listening skills for effective problem-solving.

     

    Listen in as we further explore rehearsal planning and feedback. We discuss the importance of understanding the music's intention and conveying it effectively to the ensemble. We also touch on the crucial aspect of post-rehearsal reflection and review, with tips on how to effectively implement it. Memory and note-taking during rehearsals also play a significant role, and we elaborate on how to use them to your advantage.

     

    Communication and feedback in conducting take centre stage in our conversation. We highlight how conductors can optimally give and receive feedback, including non-verbally. We delve into the importance of striking a balance between providing continuous feedback and letting the ensemble find their rhythm. Additionally, we shed light on the psychological aspects of conducting during these crucial middle rehearsals.

    Ready for more? Keep your learning going with:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

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    S2E3: First rehearsals - trust, expectations and listening like crazy

    S2E3: First rehearsals - trust, expectations and listening like crazy

    Today's episode tackles the crucial first rehearsal. Learn how to make a lasting impression, establish effective communication and the importance of rhythm, with the understanding that initial mistakes are an essential part of the journey towards a stellar performance. 

    The conversation takes a deep dive into managing stress and expectations, with a focus on cultivating a positive environment for musicians. Discover how to navigate the tricky path of labeling pieces as easy or challenging, and the significance of maintaining a global awareness within the ensemble. 

    Through our discussion, gain practical tips on improving communication within sections and setting the right priorities during rehearsals. 

    Finally, join us as we explore the distinct dynamics that come with handling a professional orchestra versus an educational or community group. Grasp the decisive and adaptable attitude needed when conducting a professional group, and the opportunities for growth and experimentation in an educational or community ensemble. Whether you're a conductor, a player, or simply a music enthusiast, you're sure to gain valuable insights from our shared experiences and reflections on improving performances in both contexts. 

    Together, we underscore the importance of empowering students in music education and encourage you to embrace the same in your practice.

    Ready for more? Check out Ingrid's resources:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

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     for quality info like this, delivered straight to your inbox (about once a month)

    Ready for more? Keep your learning going with:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

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    S2E2: From paper to performance - score study, imagination & interpretation

    S2E2: From paper to performance - score study, imagination & interpretation

    Join us for a compelling discussion about the importance of score study for conductors and its impact on ensemble players. 

    Listen in as we share our unique perspectives, including Tom's insight as a player and Ingrid's transition from starting with recordings to starting with the score. We both emphasize the need to approach score study with a clear vision of the ideal version of the piece, instead of being swayed by the current ensemble's limitations. 

    The conversation continues as we explore the art of music interpretation, starting with the score and no instrument. Tune in as we discuss the importance of making informed choices and using the score as a performance outline. We also highlight the benefits of listening to multiple recordings for variety, avoiding getting stuck on a single version. 

    Lastly, we delve into the significance of imagination in interpreting music and the role of recordings in preparation for a performance. Get inspired as we discuss creating a clear mental orchestra to develop a personal interpretation of a piece. 

     

    Ready for more? Check out Ingrid's resources:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

    Sign up to the mailing list for quality info like this, delivered straight to your inbox (about once a month)

    Ready for more? Keep your learning going with:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

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    S2E1: Get prepared for the big picture

    S2E1: Get prepared for the big picture

    In this episode delve into the complexities of selecting repertoire, organizing logistics, and maintaining a balance between administrative tasks and artistic vision. We highlight how preparations vary depending on the context - be it school ensembles or professional orchestras - emphasizing the importance of effective leadership for a successful performance.

    Join us as we examine the contrasting needs and planning demands in an educational setting versus a professional setting. We stress the importance of advanced planning and clear rehearsal schedules, particularly in a professional context where schedules may be set far in advance. We also underline the necessity for flexibility in a school or community setting. A crucial takeaway from our discussion is the importance of giving players a sense of preparedness and safety before a performance, which can be achieved by playing through the entire symphony without stopping.

    Finally, we scrutinize the three stages of rehearsal and score study, shedding light on the value of understanding the overall structure of the piece before diving into details. The repetition and multiple run-throughs, while demanding, can lead to musicians feeling comfortable and confident in their performance. We wrap up our discussion by emphasizing the importance of intentional planning, clear communication, and a well-defined vision for a successful performance. 

    Ready for more? Check out Ingrid's resources:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

    Sign up to the mailing list for quality info like this, delivered straight to your inbox (about once a month)

     

    Ready for more? Keep your learning going with:

    Online Courses, including Conducting Bootcamp

    Books, including Planning Effective Rehearsals

    Blog

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    Email us with your questions & feedback

    Young Entrepreneurship with Jack Marra, Sienna Grinwald-Alves, and Hudson Galik

    Young Entrepreneurship with Jack Marra, Sienna Grinwald-Alves, and Hudson Galik
    Welcome to season 2, episode 49 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

    This week I interview three incredible young entrepreneurs from New Jersey. All are doing something they love and are continuing to share their artistic talents with the world.

    My first guest is Jack Marra. Jack is 16 years old and an incredible artist. He creates fan art, has many requests for commissioned work from his close to 6,000 Instagram followers, and makes beautiful artistic keychains. Jack shares about how his confidence increased as others took notice of his artwork at a younger age.  Sharing fan art from the show Stranger Things truly helped Jack see an increase in followers. From there more opportunities were created. Jack goes on to share the importance of creating characters and that people really enjoy following character stories even if they have never heard of them before. You can see some of Jack's work by following @inkycat186 or purchase artwork at his Etsy shop - @iinkycatz.

    My next guest is Sienna Grinwald-Alves. Sienna is a junior in college and is attaining her bachelor's degree in music education. She teaches vocal and beginner piano lessons and is also a budding opera singer. She was inspired by her grandfather who was an aspiring opera singer himself. When she was a junior in performing arts high school with a focus on vocal training, Sienna was asked to lead the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation's AOK Performance Group. During that time parent's of AOK Performance Group students asked Sienna if she could provide individual vocal lessons. From there she started her performing arts studio called Operatunity Performing Arts Center. Sienna's students have ranged from ages 6 to 81 years old. You can find out more on Instagram @operatunity.pac.

    Lastly, I interview Hudson Galik. Hudson creates amazing woodworking pieces that he sells. He created an amazing shaker solid wood table for his home and from there realized how much he felt connected to this craft. He named his business Woodism, which is a combination of the word wood from woodworking and autism. Hudson is on the autism spectrum and sees this artistic outlet as a way to express himself and increase his confidence. You can follow him on Instagram @woodismusa or by going to his website - AboutWoodism.com.

    All my guests this week answer my last question which is, what advice would you give to someone who is young and has a talent that they want to share with the world?  Take a listen to hear their important words of encouragement. 

    It is so important to support small business when making purchases throughout the year. It takes great courage at a young age to put your work out in the public eye. Help support these young entrepreneur's businesses. 

    Next week, I interview Gail Siggelakis. Gail is an award-winning author of the personal growth book, The Affirming Way of Life: See the Good, Speak the Good, Spread the Good. She is also a transformational life coach, and a former elementary school educator. 

    Today is the Day

    Website: https://todayisthedayliveit.com
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todayistheday/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todayistheday

    The Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation
    Website: www.applaudourkids.org
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/applaudourkids
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/applaudourkids

    Sign-up for our mailing list, schedule a conversation with Jodi or ask a Changemaker a question: jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com

    Have a great week everyone!



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