Music of Andrew F. Poor

"Battle for another day!" Thoughts on the Middle School Music Rehearsal When I was an undergrad, I was first introduced to Bruner's Spiral Learning Theory . At the time, the concept was presented as an abstract ideal with little to no direct application. The idea of learning concepts and continually revisiting those concepts and layering new learning onto the previous concepts which eventually led to mastery seemed to be common sense. Yet, when faced with the cold reality of developing my own curriculum and teaching in a room filled with young energetic minds the theory was quickly forgotten. I was chasing the next concert or administering playing tests. The educational equivalent of walking barefoot in a dark room filled with lego pieces and sharp furniture. A lot of painful mistakes. I wanted it perfect now and I expected my students to get it "Right now!" and this was my way of setting high standards. The reality was this approach led to terrible i...

There is probably no greater part of my job than starting young musicians on the journey of learning to play an instrument. The first few weeks these students play an instrument are critical to the potential success (or failure) of that journey. Here are some resources and techniques I have utilized to help my students get off to a great start. I believe that one of the most important components of my approach is to allow students to focus on only one task/skill at a time and then scaffold those skills. I strive to check every individual at least once a day during these early stages. This does slow the progress of class, but helps to ensure that all students are meeting the standards. In addition, I avoid having the students play in large groups until a greater mastery of sound is achieved by the student; the goal is groups of 5-15, but no larger. Three Points of Posture Feet flat! So you can stand without moving your feet.  Stand from the waist up. Push off from the back o...