From Squeaks to Symphonies: Launching Beginners Without Losing Your Sanity

Nothing tests a band director’s patience like 30 beginners armed with shiny new instruments and zero idea how to play them — but it doesn’t have to be chaos! In this 70-minute session, we’ll dive into tried-and-true strategies for getting beginners started strong: from running a smooth and effective instrument petting zoo (where no one ends up playing flute because "it’s the smallest"), to organizing a "Squeak and Squawk" day with clinicians to jumpstart their playing. You'll walk away with practical tips, sample schedules, and creative problem-solving ideas — plus the chance to swap your best (and worst!) beginner stories and tricks with colleagues. Let’s turn those first squeaks into music — and maybe even have a little fun along the way. Click here to access and bookmark the presentation - all resources will be shared digitally 20 Participants