59: Kristin Blanchard | Engaging Young Musicians in Middle School Band

John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk with Kristen Blanchard, 2024 Michigan Band Director of the Year. A middle school band director (Muir Middle School) of nearly 30 years, she shares how music education has evolved and how her methods have also changed over the course of her career.  Kristin highlights why creating a fun, engaging environment is so important in her band room.  They discuss practical approaches to practice, the value of performance traditions, and how private instructors and school programs can work together to grow lifelong musicians and music lovers.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript: