Thing 14-Learn About Podcasting

(Image by OllieBray) I consider myself very fortunate to have the job that I do. Once I prepare the 6th grade band students with the basic instrumental musical concepts, there are so many opportunities in our band program awaiting them. One for instance, is our outstanding high school jazz department. There are three jazz bands in the high school. Knowing this, I introduce the blues and jazz styles to my 6th grade band students.

One of my favorite NPR shows is "Piano Jazz" by Marion McPartland, which airs each Saturday morning from 10-11 AM on NPR 104.1. There is a lot to be learned from listening to the great and inspiring musicians' music and life stories. Its always interesting finding out how these musicians got to where they are. Some grew up associating with the jazz greats and others had parents who supported their children's interest in music.

Dave Samuels with Alain Mallet on Piano Jazz Dave Samuels plays the vibraphone, but started out on the drums and piano. He soon chose the vibes because, to him, it was a mixture of his two favorite instruments or the best of both worlds. Students listening to this podcast would hear the sound of great musicians performing in a couple different styles of music. They would also hear the enthusiasm in Mr. Samuels' voice telling about the other great musicians he had the honor to perform and record with and meet.

"Musicians in Their Own Words" is another one of my favorite NPR shows. In the Podcast
A Musicians Guide to the Pre-Concert Warm-Up, professional musicians speak about techniques to warming up before a concert. Whether producing raspberry sounds, bird calls, or sirens, proper warm-up is necessary at the beginning of every practice session or performance. Yo-Yo-Ma's respect of his relationship with his cello, bow, and music is most impressive. As in any level of musical ability, a great sound is always a requirement whether it's the first, middle, or last note produced.