If you have a competitive marching band, your improvement is measured by the scores from your weekly contests.  Concert band?  Well I suppose progress is measured there through adjudication festivals.  I might argue, however, that measuring only as a function of exit outcomes is not the most efficient and effective manner.  Measurement is a tool, just like a hammer or a wrench.  It is a tool that helps us refine our skills

What are the measuring tools you use on a daily basis that allows you to recognize student or group growth?  What tools do you use to point out strengths and weaknesses in your instructional delivery and rehearsal framework?  As a young teacher, I did what my band director did….I rehearsed the band with the only real measuring stick being what I heard in my ears.  When I learned to find ways to measure student progress AND my ability to deliver instruction, I became a better teacher, the students became better performers, and the band naturally became better.

Today, no every day, I encourage you to develop ways to measure student performance and growth, as well as your ability to effectively deliver instruction.   Long rehearsals and numerous reps will typically result in improvement, but I would argue that using some type of measuring stick during daily rehearsals will both speed up the process, and result in greater improvement.  Just sayin’!

Make Today a Magnificent Day!

Gary L Rupert

Lead Mentor/COO

II:Leaders Creating:II Leaders

LCL Mentors @ Marching Arts Education