13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An invaluable resource for music educators, May 28, 2007
This review is from: Teaching Band and Orchestra: Methods and Materials (Hardcover)
I first read Cooper's "Teaching Band and Orchestra" during one of my undergraduate instrumental methods courses. My professor noted that this was the first year he had used this text, having switched to it due to what he believed was its practical and accessible nature. As a first-year music educator now, I find my professor's words ring true, since I find myself referring to it quite often between classes for refreshment and to find ideas I may not have thought of myself.
By far, of all the books on teaching instrumental music I have read, Cooper's text is the most practical and comprehensive. Everything a beginning music teacher needs to run a successful band or orchestra program is here in this book. Cooper first explores various philosophies behind instrumental music education in order to make one think about what one's primary goals in teaching are and what one wants their students to experience from being in an ensemble.
Next, Cooper devotes an enitre section to beginning instrumental ensembles. From recruiting and retention to selecting appropriate method books, Cooper covers a myriad of issues that the elementary instrumental teacher faces on a daily basis. From there, Cooper procedes to the junior high and high school level, discussing how one helps one's ensembles to grow and mature, as well as how to maintain the vast adminstrative aspects involved with running a high school instrumental program.
One of the best features of this book is the wealth of sample materials Cooper has included. Sample lesson plans at all levels, letters to parents, concert programs, band handbooks - all are present and are based upon Cooper's actual materials that he used during his career in the public schools. Being able to actually have references for formatting, tone, and style has helped me immensely so far in my career. Cooper has also been invaluable in helping me to assemble my school's band handbook; his advice on what to include and what not to include alone is worth the price of this book.
Overall, I consider this book to be the Bible of instrumental music texts. No teacher of band or orchestra at any level should be without this work. Even seasoned veterans will find new ideas that they may be interested in incorporating into their lessons. It comes with a very durable hardcover binding that will take the punishment associated with being opened, thumbed through, and dog-eared over and over again. In summary, Cooper's text is an invaluable addition to any music educator's reference library.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Must Read, October 10, 2007
This review is from: Teaching Band and Orchestra: Methods and Materials (Hardcover)
If you are young or inexperienced band or orchestra director you must have this book. It's filled with great suggestions for running your ensemble, as well as sample forms to use for your program. Health forms, playing test examinations, it has everything you will need. A fantastic reference, and a book that makes me much more confidant going into my first teaching position.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent resource for young teachers, February 18, 2011
This review is from: Teaching Band and Orchestra: Methods and Materials (Hardcover)
Though I haven't read the book in its entirety, the chapters I have read have so far proved to be an excellent resource for a beginning music teacher. I will be teaching hopefully next year and I am still apprehensive; this book has given me many great suggestions and I highly recommend this book to any future music educators.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No