Director's Hub
Drill Learning in Phone Free Schools
As more schools limit phone use, and as some students simply don’t have access to a compatible device, directors are left with an important question. How do we preserve an exceptional learning resource while supporting school policy?
Fortunately, the answer can be surprisingly simple.
Teaching From the Field
Your Field Staff Can Change a Rehearsal Faster Than You Can. As band directors, we’re always looking for ways to make rehearsals more effective. But one of the biggest opportunities for improvement isn’t on the podium. It’s at field level. Here are a few tips to help!
The Secret to Summer Motivation
Summer can either become a season of lost momentum or a launchpad for an incredible fall. While students absolutely need time to recharge, a few intentional touchpoints throughout the summer can keep them inspired, connected, and excited about what’s ahead. Here are five simple ways directors can keep students engaged during the summer months without making it feel like school all over again.
Supercharge Your Drill Learning with the AC/DC System
No matter how you choose to teach drill — having a consistent, repeatable process can make all the difference in how quickly and effectively your students internalize their responsibilities. That’s where the AC/DC System comes in. This simple 3-step process gives students a reliable framework to engage with the most important details of each set.
5 Tips for Cleaning Music on the Move
It takes focused strategies—especially when the band is moving. Here are five practical tips directors can use to clean and balance music on the move.
Our Picks
Stop Talking. Start Showing: UDB Field Notes Make Learning Easier
One of the most powerful moments in rehearsal is when a student sees what you mean. Learn how UDB’s new Field Notes feature, can make that moment easier to creat, and easier to repeat.
Stop Teaching Drill Like It's Pass Fail
The fastest way to improve drill learning isn’t setting more drill—it’s preparing students before they ever receive their first coordinate.
By Reid Atkinson
Beam Public Library
The Beam Public Library (BPL) is a free resource for Beam users to discover royalty free sheet music for ensembles of all kinds. Check out the full catalog of free pieces here, or browse the BPL and add music to your library today!
Smoother Show Days
For directors and students, show days are some of the most rewarding—but also the most stressful—parts of the season. The good news? With the right preparation and routines, you can take much of the chaos out of show day.
By Reid Atkinson
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How To Immediately Clean Your Drill
The most common mistake performers make is failing to master equal step sizes, which can throw off your drill and make it look messy. Here’s how to conquer unequal steps and start marching your way to perfection.
Winning the Process
The truth is, we have no control over how the other groups perform. Instead of focusing on “winning” the competition, let’s shift our perspective toward a goal that is within our grasp—winning the process.