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... bringing the joy of music to students and their teachers
In This Issue
The Funnies
Article Headline
The Spa
Be Inspired
Do It Yourself
Flute Flash
Article Headline
Upcoming Events
Learn More Online
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Music For Life Books








If you haven't already read both books, please check them out on the website. I promise they're full of great ideas, concrete solutions and fun stories.

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The Funnies
 Smiley Face

A friend of mine played in a summer community orchestra and shared a stand with a 15-year-old boy. Someone had used the music before and marked all the hard parts to watch out for with eyeglasses. The boy turned to my friend and asked,

"What are all those bras written in the music for?"


January 2011

Greetings!,

Every year, I resolve to lose weight, save more money, keep my house cleaner, and bring about world peace...  please don't ask how that is going. But this last year I made a couple of small changes that have made my life so much more enjoyable. And as the saying goes, "When the teacher is happy, everyone is happy!"

This year why not make a few New Year's resolutions for a happier year for you?


Get Comfy

Think of ways to make your teaching days more comfortable. Do you have an easy chair (I sit in a swivel chair with a back support), or comfy cushion on the piano bench? A thermos of tea and a little chocolate can make your day more pleasant.

Get Cozy

Seattle has many gray, drizzly days, so I try to brighten them by making my music room a refuge from the storm (in oh so many ways)! Try lighting a scented candle or having a bouquet of fragrant flowers in the studio. A new picture on the wall or even a fun cartoon is sure to give you and your students a lift.

Get Inspired

Music has changed your life and that of your students.
Listen to how musicians and composers of all genres describe what music means to their lives.

Do It Yourself

Student Teacher photo
Students can be their own teachers.

Our goal is to make our students independent. I give my students a choice: "Either you can learn to read, count and think for yourself, or you can depend on me. If I have to be there to help every step of the way, then I'll have to come live with you!"


Funny... but not one student has thought that was a good idea.


Read online for some quick ways to help make your students their own teachers.

 
Flute Flash: Practice Chart

I rarely ask students to keep a practice chart; I want them to understand it is quality, not just quantity. But sometimes, especially for beginners, it helps them track their time spent and become aware of their progress over the week.

I have posted a sample Flute Practice Chart for you to download and use in your own studio.

Mailbox
mailbox
We are thrilled to use your book for our college pedagogy class!
--Nancy Schneelock, Appalachian State University
_________________________________

Making Music and Enriching Lives

was a lively springboard for more creative ideas in the studio. I have the happiest job in the world!

--Sue Gorton, Champaign, IL

_____________________________


I got 15 new ideas for my studio in just two chapters! Excellent! These ideas spark even more!

--Emily Authier


Upcoming Events: Speaking Engagements
Bonnie in action photo
Let Bonnie add some color and fun to your next event!

A special thanks to my friends in Greenville South Carolina and Vancouver. You were great audiences.

February 18th, 2011
MENC Northwest Division Conference
(learn more)
Bellevue, Washington
"Tips and Tricks For Teaching Flute"

February 19th, 2011
MENC Northwest Division Conference
(learn more)
Bellevue, Washington
8:00 - 9:15 a.m.
"Jump Start Your Teaching"
 
July 25th, 2011, 1:30 p.m.
World Harp Congress

Vancouver B.C.
Learn More


If you've found this newsletter fun and helpful, please forward it to your friends, teachers and colleagues. I'd love to hear your comments and any ideas or suggestions you might have about content; we can always learn from each other. I promise more tips, tricks and stories in the coming months.

And don't forget to check out my cool website.

Sincerely,
Bonnie Blanchard
bonnieblanchard.com