This book helps band directors teach and develop successful jazz programs in middle schools and high schools. Ronald E. Kearns provides a step-by-step approach to starting a jazz program, teaching jazz performance, and maintaining the program once it has been established. He addresses a variety of topics, including:
the first steps that need to be taken
introductory jazz pedagogical skills
sample lesson plans
suggested literature
budget development
recruiting
retaining
classroom management
Oftentimes, band directorsespecially those who are classically trainedfind themselves woefully unprepared to teach jazz since many colleges and universities only provide a cursory look at teaching or developing a jazz program. This book provides the practical tools to that will help directors overcome these challenges.