AOSA Q&A: Mandy Gunter
As we close the chapter on the AOSA 2024 National Conference, we're finishing our series of talking with AOSA authors and leaders. We interviewed Mandy Gunter, who has a brand new book coming out shortly and presented at this year’s conference. AH: Can you tell...
AOSA Q&A: Doug Goodkin
As the excitement builds for the upcoming AOSA National Conference in Des Moines, we're thrilled to continue our spotlight series on multitalented music educators who've also embraced the world of authorship. Today, we're turning our attention to the remarkable Doug...
Rediscovering the Harmony of Education: The Role of Music Learning
Greece-ing the wheels of creativity with STEAMDid you know that for centuries, music was a fundamental component of education? It was woven into the fabric of learning alongside math, literature, and the sciences. From ancient Greece to the Renaissance, music was not...
AOSA Q&A: Katie Grace Miller
As we count down to the AOSA National Conference in Des Moines, we continue our series of talking with music educators who double as authors. In this article, we talked with Katie Grace Miller, an educator based in Florida who has written five published books and...
AOSA Q&A: BethAnn Hepburn
As the AOSA National Conference approaches, we are continuing our series of interviews with AOSA authors and leaders. Recently, we spoke with BethAnn Hepburn, experienced music educator and coauthor of Purposeful Pathways. AH: Can you tell us a little bit about...
How to Avoid the Ukulele Graveyard: Essential Care and Storage Tips
Don't let your prized ukuleles end up in the UKULELE GRAVEYARD - protect your investment with proper storage and care solutions. Racks The closer your ukulele is to the ground, the closer it is to being six feet under. Get your collection of instruments up and...
AOSA Q&A: Tiffany English
At West Music, we're passionate about supporting music educators at every stage of their journey. Today, we're excited to bring you a conversation with Tiffany English, an experienced Orff teacher and Executive Director of AOSA. AH: Let’s start at the very...
Herky is HERE: Exclusive Interview with the Artists Behind “The Musical World of Imagination” Herky
One week of brainstorming, four Herky mock-ups, and over 200 hours of painting led to a West Music star being born: “The Musical World of Imagination” Herky. Since 2004, the University of Iowa has held three Herky on Parade events, one every 10 years. It’s the...
Investing in Your Child’s Musical Journey: The Value of a Higher Level Instrument
As a parent, you want the best for your child's education and development. When it comes to their musical journey, one of the most significant decisions you'll make is choosing the right instrument. Your student may be committing to music or preparing for bigger...
Six Reasons to Teach Harmonica in the Elementary Classroom
Introducing the harmonica to your elementary classroom offers an affordable and impactful way to enhance your music curriculum. Here's why: Ease of Play The harmonica is one of the easiest instruments for beginners to pick up and start playing, allowing students to...
Performance Checklist for Music Teachers
Our tried-and-true music teacher’s checklist for grade school concerts and musicals. It’s coming. You’ve known this for months. Yet, the mere thought of your school concert or musical brings anxiety and nervousness still sets in. Instead, take a deep breath and make a...
Orff-Inspired Name Games: Building Musical Communities with Doug Goodkin
As music educators prepare for the new school year, the challenge of learning students' names and creating a vibrant classroom community looms large. Enter "Name Games" by renowned Orff-Schulwerk expert Doug Goodkin – a resource that not only solves this perennial...