Breathe deeply…. October is here! In my little corner of the world, October means crisp air and brightly colored leaves. It means smiling pumpkins and straw bales garnished with vibrant mums. It’s costume stress and an endless supply of candy. It means Halloween is on our doorstep as surely as the trick-or-treaters will be on […]
Recently, I sat in on a rather tense PTA meeting at my daughter’s school. The subject causing controversy? Eliminating class field trips. The district wasn’t considering canceling to save money, but rather because parents were concerned that children won’t be safe. I became increasingly agitated as I listened to the conversations detailing the certain perils […]
As far as school music programs go, the band tends to get a lot of attention. Between sporting events, concerts or even competitions, the band enjoys a certain amount of popularity. As a result, the orchestra and its talented musicians can occasionally be overlooked. School orchestras are comprised of students who are gifted in their […]
For some parents, autumn means back to school, crockpot cooking, and Friday night lights. For band parents, it means that band competition season has begun! If you are new to the joys and challenges of performance events (or just need a refresher), this band competition survival guide for parents may come in handy! Be A […]
When our son joined the high school band, I had visions of Friday night lights and a rousing drum beat calling to the crowd at our high school football games. I imagined the tattoo accompanying the cheerleaders and the military precision of a halftime show. I didn’t envision countless hours of summer practice and daily […]
I’ve just returned from an incredible Costa Rica trip. Having never been to this little slice of Central America, I had no expectations other than to enjoy some uninterrupted family time in a beautiful spot. Wow! Not only did our visit exceed my rather humble expectations, it awakened the dormant educator in me. The lush […]
Recently my family and I visited Cedar Point Theme Park in Sandusky, Ohio. It had been a few years since we were last there, and I was anxious to check out the new features as well as some old favorites (still love the Gemini!!). I secretly donned my student travel guru hat as well to […]
What is the Disney Candlelight Processional? The Disney Candlelight Processional is an inspirational telling of the story of Christmas since 1958. Celebrity guest narrators share the greatest story ever told while surrounded by an array of student choirs and the Voices of Liberty. They are also accompanied by a fifty-piece, world-class Disney Orchestra. Cast members […]
Student groups that fly face unique challenges. Specifically, they must navigate the constantly changing rules and regulations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA guidelines exist for the safety and security of all air travelers. This includes those flying with special medical considerations. Inevitably there will be a student on the trip who requires special […]
You’ve decided to skip the motorcoach and try flying with your student group. What are the rules? What do you need to know to make your flight go as smoothly as possible? Flying with a student group can be intimidating. The regulations for air travel change constantly, making it easy to be overwhelmed. Below is […]
If you travel with students, you know how much work goes into planning the perfect trip. When you put your heart and soul into organizing, it’s incredibly frustrating when sign-ups don’t go as planned. You’re not alone. Others (many others!) have been through this process and can share some great tips for promoting trips. […]
My son is a gifted saxophonist. He shined brightly in his middle school band, as well as in many regional competitions and festivals. Having no musical abilities whatsoever, my husband and I basked in his accomplishments without truly understanding the effort he put forth to achieve them. We assumed that the hour or two he […]
