Mitchell Family Publishing - Blog

High Five Fundementals

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 22:52:29 GMT

Having taught middle and high school band for the past ten years, I have consistently emphasized the importance of learning and mastering scales as a foundation for strong musicianship. Like many directors, I relied primarily on one-octave scales and saw reasonable success in the most common keys—E♭, B♭, F, and G. However, once we moved beyond those familiar territories, progress often began to break down. Even though our repertoire rarely lives outside those keys, students still encounter less common tonalities often enough that gaps in understanding become clear.

Earlier this year, I was reminded of something from my undergraduate studies. My horn professor had given us a simple sheet of five-note major and minor scales, designed to reinforce tonal awareness without the technical and range demands of full-octave patterns. That memory sparked a question: would my students experience greater success if they focused first on the opening five notes of each major scale? Could that smaller, more accessible chunk lead to meaningful growth?

I searched for materials that fit what my ensemble truly needed, but nothing quite matched my vision—so I wrote one myself. We began by playing through all of the five-note scales in a single rehearsal, simply to assess strengths and weaknesses. Over the next few days, we focused on the scales that needed the most attention. After that, we worked through three scales per week for several weeks, building consistency and confidence.

To keep things engaging, I added an element of chance. I used a simple online spinner, assigned each scale a number, and had students play whichever scale was selected that day—sometimes just one, sometimes several. If the group struggled, we slowed down, isolated problem spots, or gave students time to practice independently before trying again as an ensemble. I also incorporated practice strategies from my own routine, such as altering rhythms, sustaining notes as long tones, or focusing on tone and air rather than speed.

Two clear results emerged. First, students’ scale fluency improved more quickly than it ever had with full-octave scales alone. Second, they learned their music faster. Fingerings became more secure, and passages that once caused hesitation were no longer roadblocks. Even at the high school level, where students had technically “learned” these fingerings years earlier, I noticed fewer stalls and much greater confidence.

I believe High Five Fundamentals is effective because it allows directors to spend more time on fundamentals without overwhelming students. The shorter patterns are more range-friendly and accessible, especially for developing players. As a young horn player myself, I remember how discouraging it could be to learn scales that began in an uncomfortable register or required large leaps—particularly when those ranges rarely appeared in the music we were playing. This approach removes that barrier.

By breaking major scales into manageable, success-oriented chunks, students gain confidence in keys they often label as “hard.” Instead of being intimidated by extra sharps or flats, they experience success early and often. From there, transitioning to full-octave scales feels like a natural next step rather than an insurmountable challenge.

I first implemented High Five Fundamentals with my high school band and later shared it with our middle school director. Both ensembles have seen noticeable improvement in scale proficiency, technique, and overall musical understanding.

My hope is that High Five Fundamentals can serve as a flexible warm-up and teaching tool for beginning, emerging, and even more experienced ensembles—any group that benefits from strong fundamentals presented in a clear, achievable way. I look forward to seeing the success it brings to your classroom as well.

Ready to try it with your band? You can download High Five Fundamentals by entering your email below. You’ll receive immediate access to the exercise, plus occasional updates, teaching ideas, and new resources designed to support band directors and developing ensembles.

Jumping into Christmas Music with My Students

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:10:34 GMT

Jumping into Christmas Piano Music with My Students

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you purchase through my links — at no additional cost to you.

Christmas is fast approaching, and I’m so excited to be jumping into Christmas piano music with my students this week! In the Mitchell household, we believe in giving each holiday its time to shine — no Christmas decorating or celebrating until after Thanksgiving.

In music lessons, though, things work a little differently. I want my students to have plenty of time to make their way through their entire book of Christmas music. We want to savor every beautiful note, not rush through or leave any favorites behind. That’s why as soon as November rolls around, it’s time to break out the Christmas piano books!

Finding the Right Christmas Piano Book

When it comes to Christmas piano books, there are so many options out there. Over the years, I’ve tried several, but one set has become my absolute favorite — the Faber & Faber Piano Adventures Christmas series.

Since my students already use the Piano Adventures method books during lessons, their Christmas books align perfectly with the level they’re studying. There’s no need to push beyond their current range or skills. I want them to enjoy the Christmas music season, not feel overwhelmed by difficult music.

Why I Love the Faber Piano Adventures Christmas Books

One of my favorite things about the Faber Christmas series is the variety. Each book includes a beautiful mix of cultural, religious, and secular Christmas songs. It feels like everyone’s favorite holiday tune appears somewhere in the series — from “Silent Night” to “Jingle Bells” to “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

This variety also gives me the opportunity to talk with my students about the origins and traditions behind the music. We get to explore how people around the world celebrate the holiday season through song — and students love connecting these ideas to music they already know.

Perfectly Formatted for Young Pianists

Another big plus: the formatting. The Faber books are easy to read, with large print that’s perfect for early readers. The colorful illustrations are bright and inviting, keeping students engaged from the first page to the last.

As you may already know, I believe strongly that students should be able to play songs they know and love, even before they’re fully comfortable reading music on the staff. Piano Adventures provides just that — familiar Christmas tunes that make learning fun and meaningful.

Explore the Piano Adventures Christmas Series

My First Piano Adventure (Ages 5–6)

Piano Adventures Core Levels (Primer – Level 4)

For Teens & Adults

Older Beginner Christmas Book 1

Each of these levels corresponds perfectly with the regular Piano Adventures curriculum, so students can enjoy their favorite Christmas songs without jumping ahead or backtracking in difficulty. Whether your student is just starting out in My First Piano Adventure or has advanced into the later books, there’s something festive for everyone.

Here’s to a joyful and music-filled Christmas season — may your lessons be merry and bright!

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting my studio and helping me continue sharing music resources!

Camping Under the Buck Moon: A Creative Reset for Musicians

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:08:13 GMT

The Buck Moon rises over Bear Lake County.

By Mitchell Family Publishing
Last week, we took a much-needed break from the screen and the staff paper to spend a quiet evening outdoors, just as the Buck Moon rose over the hills.
There’s something humbling and restorative about stepping into a quiet natural space—no deadlines, no rehearsal schedules, just the rhythmic hush of the breeze, the chirp of insects, and the soft glow of moonlight over the landscape.
These moments do more than relax us—they refresh us creatively.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, stale, or overworked musically, here are a few simple, unplugged activities that help us reconnect and refocus:

🎶 Moonlight Journaling – jotting down musical ideas or thoughts in a small notebook without judgment
🎶 Field Listening – no instruments, just listening to the rhythms and textures of the world around you
🎶 Improvisation Outdoors – a travel keyboard or melodica under the stars opens up new sonic possibilities
🎶 Simple Silence – sometimes the best inspiration comes from doing absolutely nothing at all

We believe that rest is an essential part of the creative process—and nature offers the best kind of rest.
So next time you feel that creative block creeping in, maybe take your music outside. Even just an hour under the open sky can bring surprising new inspiration.

Happy composing,
– The Mitchell Family
🎼 www.mitchellfamilypublishing.com

The Walk: A Mental Health Journey

Thu, 22 May 2025 17:34:20 GMT

Last year, the Suicide Awareness Walk was hosted by two of the young women I worked with in our church youth group. I love these two girls and wanted to support them — but I ended up being the one supported. I was at the kitchen counter making pancakes for breakfast when I remembered the walk. It was just starting, but I was determined not to miss it. I threw my hair in a high pony and tossed Mike the spatula. “I’ll be right back!” (Poor man knows I never mean that… lol.)
When I got there, the ceremony had already begun and everyone was gathered in a parking lot. It was the bead ceremony. I had never attended the Suicide Awareness Walk before, so I didn’t know what was going on. One of the girls explained what each color of beads represented and encouraged everyone to hold up their beads — or their hand — when she got to the color that applied to them.
Here are the colors and their meanings:

As she went through the list, people slowly began to raise their hands. Some lifted bead necklaces quietly. Others looked around and made eye contact, tears shining.

I had only thought of wanting to support these two sweet girls — not about sharing my own personal struggle. I was nervous, but I wanted to show the same strength and openness I could see in them. So when she said, “Green,” I raised my hand.
After the ceremony, it was time to walk. I stopped by the bead table. I wanted to support as best I could. Once again, I felt nervous choosing the beads that applied to me. The inner voice in my head said, “Green?! How could you claim to have a struggle? So many others are struggling much more than you. They have real reason to take green.”
That inner voice is something I am frequently bombarded with. On one hand, I feel it can be helpful sometimes. As musicians, we use our inner voice’s judgment to drive us to practice a difficult passage or woodshed a tricky run to perfection. On the other hand, when it cuts into our inner fibers, it can leave us feeling raw and ragged.
Through meditation, I’ve been learning when to tell my inner voice to sit down and be quiet. I took this as one of those times — and took the green beads.
As we started to walk, we were a community of people strung out for blocks. It was beautiful to see all the different people and the ties they have to struggles with suicide, walking together. A family I’m friends with was walking a ways in front of me. The wife slowed her pace to walk next to me. She gave me a side hug, and we continued walking together, sharing our struggles with one another.
The brave way in which she shared her struggles with me gave me the strength to share mine.
My struggle has taken two forms.
The first was a darkness I found myself stuck in after our second miscarriage. I grappled with feelings that the baby’s death was my fault — that I deserved to suffer for costing that soul the ability to live. The darkness felt deep, lonely, and hopeless. I felt like I was stuck in a cold, deep, dark hole that I could not pull myself out of.
After months of this, I realized I had to decide to leave that place. My path out of the darkness was choosing to accept Christ’s healing forgiveness and crawl toward His light. It didn’t fix everything overnight, but I was able to find happiness and peace again.
I realize the journey back to the light is different for everyone. I’m not suggesting that if those who are still in the blackness would just turn to Christ, He will immediately heal them. Many need other forms of healing, such as medication and counseling or therapy services. There are so many facets. But this is how I was able to find light again during that trial. At other times, I’ve used natural medications and some counseling to find the peace we all need.
The second form I struggle with is on a smaller, more regular basis. It comes from the voice that whispers, “You are not enough.” When that voice becomes loud enough, it can make me feel like everyone’s lives would be better if I walked out into the dark winter night and never returned.
While studying different forms of meditation for a class, I came upon a man who described fighting the same voice. He said it’s empowering to identify the voice as not coming from yourself. When it creeps into his thoughts, he recognizes it as not part of his identity — and lets it go, since it isn’t serving him.
That perspective has helped me. I’m learning to tell that voice to sit down and be quiet when its words no longer serve me.
As my friend and I shared with one another, the blocks went by quickly. Before I knew it, we had reached the end of the walk.
I found myself changed during those short blocks.
I am so grateful to those girls. They helped me open up about this difficult subject. Their bravery made me brave.

Mental Health in Music: Breaking the Silence for Mental Health Awareness Month

Thu, 01 May 2025 03:45:02 GMT

Music is often described as the universal language—a lifeline, an emotional outlet, and a source of deep personal expression. But behind the curtain of concerts, recitals, and studio classes, there's a quieter, sometimes more painful reality that too many musicians face: the mental health challenges that come with the pursuit of perfection, performance anxiety, burnout, and isolation.

As both musicians and mental health advocates, this topic is close to our hearts. We've faced our own personal battles with mental illness—some visible, others tucked behind practiced smiles and “I’m fine.” That’s why we’re writing this during Mental Health Awareness Month: to raise our voices for those who may not yet feel ready to speak, and to remind students, educators, and professionals in music that they are not alone.

The Hidden Struggles of Musicians and Music Students

Mental health challenges are common in the music community, but they’re often overlooked or minimized. According to data compiled in resources like the James Madison University Department of Music’s Mental Health and Resilience Guide, musicians are at heightened risk for issues such as:

Anxiety and panic disorders
Depression and mood disorders
Performance anxiety
Burnout and chronic stress
Substance misuse

A perfectionist culture, long hours of solitary practice, high expectations, and inconsistent income for professionals can all contribute to declining mental health. For students, these pressures are compounded by academic stress and social isolation.

A recent article from the Mayo Clinic also highlights how early mental health issues can emerge in young people—making early recognition and intervention essential.

Michael playing his French Horn in college

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Whether you're a teacher, peer, or colleague, being able to identify warning signs of mental distress can make a life-changing difference. Look out for:

Noticeable changes in mood or personality
Withdrawal from social or musical activities
Lack of motivation, poor academic or performance engagement
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or changes in appetite/sleep
Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness

As educators and mentors, our job goes far beyond teaching music. We must also tune in to the human being behind the instrument.

Encouraging Help and Creating Safe Spaces

It's not always easy to talk about mental health—especially in environments where high achievement is expected. But creating space for open dialogue can break stigma and save lives.

Here are a few simple, compassionate ways to support a student or peer:

Ask open-ended, non-judgmental questions: “Hey, I’ve noticed you seem a bit off lately—want to talk?”
Reassure them: “You’re not alone in feeling this way. Lots of musicians struggle, and it’s okay to ask for help.”
Offer resources: Suggest counseling services, crisis lines, or online resources.
Model openness: Sharing your own experience can help others feel less alone.

Normalizing mental health conversations in music education is just as important as scales and technique. You can’t perform your best if you’re silently hurting.

A Personal Note from Us

We’ve lived through the late-night anxiety spirals before big auditions, the tears after tough rehearsals, and the pressure to be “perfect.” As educators we have seen our students struggle with this and have struggled with it ourselves to be the "perfect" educators.

If you're struggling, please don’t wait for it to get unbearable. Help is out there. Healing is possible. And most importantly, your worth is not defined by your performance.

Helpful Resources

JMU Resilience and Mental Health Guide
Mayo Clinic: Mental Illness in Children
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Let’s be brave enough to be honest—and kind enough to listen. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s make music education a more compassionate, mentally healthy space for everyone.

Rachel playing her oboe in college

Hop into Harmony: Fun Easter Music Games for Your Students

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:40:53 GMT

Spring is here, the weather is warming up, and our students are wanting to get outside. (So are we, if we're honest, right?!) It feels like we have to step up our teaching game a little this time of year to keep their focus on the music and not the siren song of sunshine pouring through the window. I love mixing in new games to help them keep moving forward in their lessons.

My favorite tool during Easter season is the plastic eggs from the dollar store. They're easy-to-find, cheap, fun, and versatile. Below are a couple games my students love. Easy prep and set-up are a must around here, so be sure to try these out on your students today! Free printable available at the bottom of the page to make it easy to put these games together. Plus, I added a blank sheet of cards to the printable so you can make your own if you'd like.

What are your favorite games using plastic eggs? Share them in the comments, so we can try them out!

Sample set-up of Musical Egg Basket

Musical Egg Basket

Plastic Eggs
Letter Names or Flashcards(printable HERE)
Basket

Close a letter name or flashcard in each plastic egg. If using flashcards, you may need to use the larger plastic eggs or print out flashcards you don't mind folding. Place the eggs in the basket. Have your student draw an egg out of the basket, identify the note or key, and play it. For extra fun, hide the eggs around the room ahead of time and have a quick egg hunt before starting the game.

Simple set-up of Egg-ceptional Rhythm Game

Advanced set-up of Egg-ceptional Rhythm Game

Egg-ceptional Rhythm

Plastic Eggs
Dry Erase Marker
Basket

Using the dry erase marker, draw a different rhythmic note value on the top half of each egg. Next, draw the corresponding number of beats on the bottom half of each egg. Values and beats can be adjusted for the student's level.

Drop the egg pieces in the basket and ask the student to match up the tops to the correct number of beats on the bottoms. After they understand the game, take the eggs apart, drop them back in the basket, and have them do it again for time.

Sample set-up of Correct Chord-egg Game

Correct Chord-egg

Plastic Eggs
Chord Value Cards(printable HERE)
Basket

This game has 2 options for review. Print out the Chord Value Cards by clicking on the link above or the image below.
Option 1- Cut out the Major and Minor Chord Cards and close one inside each plastic egg. Place the eggs in the basket. Have the student pull out an egg, identify the chord value inside, and play it. For extra fun, hide the eggs around the room ahead of time and have a quick egg hunt before starting the game.

Option 2- Cut out the Scale Chord Value Cards and close one inside each plastic egg. Place the eggs in a basket. Choose a scale you will be working in. Have the student pull an egg out of the basket, identify the chord inside within the scale chosen, and play it. After going through the eggs once, return the cards to the eggs and play again for time.

Letter name and Chord Printable

Top 5 Oboe Resources Every Music Teacher Should Use + Free Printable

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 20:37:04 GMT

Oboists are their own breed of student. They're typically driven and focused with an eye for details. We love their virtues and it's a good thing because they can be odd ducks, no pun intended! Our ensembles need the gorgeous sound their instrument produces when played well. How do we help them hone their skills, so they can be an asset to our ensemble? Below are 5 resources I suggest and use to help my oboe students on a regular basis.

Private Teacher
Oboe students need someone who speaks their language. Someone who knows when to commiserate over a terrible reed and when to kick them in the pants and get them to USE MORE FOCUSED AIR! That someone needs to have more experience on the oboe than a 6 week course in the undergrad can give.

As a private oboe teacher I understand that we're a little bit like unicorns, elusive, yet magical when found. There are a couple options to help the search and assist students who are in more rural areas. Start at the nearest University. Shoot an email to the oboe professor and ask for some recommendations. They typically have a feel for who is in the area or which university students are ready to take on their own studio. If the nearest University is too far, then feel out your current area. Ask other directors in neighboring towns if they have any connections. Even if the student can only afford to travel and meet with their teacher once or twice a month it's more instruction and direction then they would have otherwise.

Honor Ensembles
Be sure to take advantage of any opportunity you have to help them come in contact with other oboists. We're a rare breed and in many cases tend to be on our own in our ensemble. I grew up in a rural area. Until my senior year I was not only the sole oboist in my band, but also my school, my district, and the neighboring districts, as well. My first contact with other oboists was when my director took us to an honor band at our nearest university, about 1.5 hours away. I was so floored that other oboists existed. It was a Jasmine moment...

via GIPHY

I was able to spend the weekend "talking shop" with the other oboists. We shared places we had found to buy reeds, favorite fingerings for different notes, and bragged about how much we practiced. It was a great way to encourage a deeper love for honing our skills.

Youtube
In today's digital world, our students have a whole universe of video resources at their fingertips for free. In seconds they can access recordings, lessons, and masters of their instrument. Sorting through the less desirable uploads can be daunting at times. I've included a list of Youtube channels that I find upload quality content on the free printable at the end of the page.

When it comes to using Youtube to access recordings of solos and other pieces, I always encourage my students to use a critical ear. Does the performance sound polished? Did they use proper dynamics and intonation? If they find a lack-luster performance, we use it as a teaching tool. What could the performer have done better? What exercises in their practice could hone those skills?

ASU Oboe Resource Page
Martin Schuring is a great resource when it comes to the oboe. His recordings are fantastic and he has done a great deal in supporting the oboe community during his career. The resource page he has built on Arizona State University's website is a great place to send your students with questions. He has articles on a variety of topics to support the emerging oboist. I've included it on the free printable at the end of this page. You can also access his page HERE.

IDRS or International Double Reed Society
As per their website, they are "a worldwide nonprofit organization made up of professional double reed players, students, amateurs, hobbyists, university/college instructors, music teachers, institutions, instrument manufacturers, double reed product retailers, reed makers, and enthusiasts."

Their website hosts a wealth of knowledge on all things double reed. Resources to answer fingering and playing questions, lists of competitions, a marketplace to purchase instruments, and up-to-date information on the IDRS Conference. A five day event held at a new location each year specifically geared toward double reed players. I had the opportunity to go while I was in college. My sister, a bassoonist, came with me and for those five days, we were in double reed heaven!

Pics or it didn't happen, right?! Thank you early 2000s camera for the incredible exposure, lol. This was before the days when you carried a great camera in your pocket.

Conclusion
Now that you've found a couple helpful nuggets in this list, be sure to download this printable and use it as a resource for your oboe students. Thank you for supporting your oboe students and helping them develop their skills! I'm always happy to answer any oboe questions you might have, feel free to shoot me an email!

Download the Printable HERE or click on the image below.

2024 Midwest Clinic

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 20:53:59 GMT

This year I was blessed with the opportunity to attend the Midwest Clinic. This is the second time I have been able to attend and it is such a wonderful experience! I was able to attend sessions on new music and small schools. I learned a lot from educators around the United States about how to run my program better and how to provide opportunities to my students to enrich their musical education and experiences. I was also able to reconnect with some wonderful people and meet some new composers and educators. Getting to see my composer collective friends and help them sell some music and make connections was definitely one of the highlights of this trip. Shoutout to all my CodaChrome Collective friends and the help they give me in becoming a better composer.

One thing I really enjoyed about this trip was how I got to and from the conference. I got to ride a train. Something that I have dreamed about for a long time is taking a cross country trip by train. This may seem silly since the time it takes to travel is so much longer than flying, but I have to say it was quite enjoyable! The stress of packing and getting on the train was so minimal. The ability to sit back and enjoy the countryside and see sights I might never have seen in any other way was so relaxing. Being able to sit back in my seat and let the engineers and conductors direct our train to our destination was so peaceful. When I got to the conference, I was not nearly as stressed as I have been when I get off a plane that is stuffed full, emerging into an airport that is also jam packed and then trying to make it to my hotel. Instead I got off the train, grabbed my bags and walked into the grand vista that is the Chicago Union Station. It was all decorated for Christmas and Hanukkah. The tree that filled the center of the station was decorated with all the different railways that have, or currently, run through that station. I was able to walk through the station and catch an Uber. Despite there being some heavy construction going on in and outside the station, it was relatively painless.

Once I got to my hotel, it was only a matter of walking to the conference center at McCormick Place. One thing I love about this conference is that even though it is a large international conference there are three hotels directly connected to the convention center by sky bridges. If you have ever been to Chicago in December, you know it can be cold and snowy! You almost never have to go outside, which is super nice. I could enjoy the vistas of Chicago without having to endure the cold too much.

One of the benefits of this conference is the networking I get to do. I was able to meet many new people and see some familiar friends. It really helps me feel connected in a world where I am isolated from a lot of my colleagues. Even in the digital age it is nice to get together and discuss things in person, grab a bite to eat together, and talk about our personal lives in addition to the usual business. It helps me solidify those friendships and rejuvenate in a time of year when music education can get a little difficult.

Speaking of rejuvenation, I have had a hard time being creative lately, especially in the realm of composition. I finished two pieces this year, but it was a stretch for me. I haven't felt like myself and have struggled with depression that has been worse than I've ever experienced before. The bouts of depression have continued to worsen these last few years and I've finally garnered up the courage to do something about it. I had been worried that I wouldn't ever be able to compose like I used to, and making these changes and attending Midwest has helped me turn over a new leaf. I was able to get a good start on a new piece that I'm really excited about. I can't recall the last time I felt excited to be writing something, but when I was on the train and traveling back through Illinois and Iowa, the ideas just started flowing and I came up with three movements worth of musical ideas and concepts in a matter of minutes. It was exhilarating! I haven't felt such clarity of thought and passion for my music in so long I had forgotten what it felt like. The rejuvenating effects of hanging out with colleagues and learning together are so valuable. If you ever get a chance to attend a conference, I highly recommend you go!

As things return to normal home life, I'm looking forward to the new year and teaching my students, as well as writing new music. I hope the holidays have treated you wonderfully and that you find happiness, joy, and peace this season! Here's to new music and new adventures!

Look at the new scarf! Won't Rachel be surprised!

The Power of Quiet

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 23:01:52 GMT

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to go on a girl's trip with all but one of my four sisters, my mom, and a friend. We headed down to St. George to find some sun, hike, and do whatever fit our fancy for the weekend.
I put off getting packed to go until almost the last minute. I wasn't sure about taking the time from home. I had things I needed to do and I felt guilty leaving everything to Mike for the weekend just to have fun. Mike kept encouraging me and reassuring me that he had everything under control, so I agreed and threw the things I needed into a bag.
Our first hike was along a beautiful trail filled with red rocks and tall canyon walls. I joked and chatted with the ladies and enjoyed the gorgeous views. I found more relief in not being needed than I thought I would. No one needed me to undo their seatbelt or toss snacks into the back seat on the way there. I didn't have to tie several pairs of shoes before we set off on the hike. No one asked me to help them scramble up a rock or back down from a ledge. I missed my little guys, but felt a bit rested. The biggest thing I noticed was the silence. There isn't much room for silence in my current season of life. There are so many questions that need answered and requests that need filled, my ears are met with different sounds almost every minute. I relished the quiet crunch of my sneakers on the sand. I let my mind soften into that silence.

That night we enjoyed a bright orange sunset on the way to the AirBnb and I read my book, studied my scriptures, and crawled into a cute little bunk with two of my sisters giggling nearby.
The next morning I woke early and found myself in silence again. My mind was rested and ready to get up. I had some thoughts about a song I could write to describe our hike the day before. I snuck downstairs and rummaged in my bag to find the manuscript paper I had tossed in just in case there was time to work on some arrangements. I am an arranger. I've been arranging simple pieces for my piano students for years. I love giving them access to their favorite songs at their level of playing. In our house, Mike is the composer. I've never had the desire to write my own music. I don't hear the world the way he does, but this morning it felt different. I had musical ideas bouncing around in my head and I needed to get them down on paper. In the quiet of the morning I wrote my first song.
We had the opportunity to spend some time in the St. George Temple and on the grounds later that morning. More beautiful silence was added to my weekend there. We then packed up a lunch and headed for Snow Canyon. The views in Snow Canyon are amazing. We made our way to the top of a bluff and some of the ladies wanted to climb up higher on the rocks. I was content to rest where we were and enjoy the view. I have to be careful to not push my body too hard while it's still healing from the past year. I settled down with my mom and sister. I took some pictures and pulled out the manuscript paper. In the silence on the bluff I could hear the beat of a hawk's wings that flew overhead. That's how quiet it was. It was blissful and more musical ideas made their way onto the paper.

Later, I took a short hike by myself while waiting for some of the ladies to make their way back to the van. More silent thought and musical ideas. This whole experience was completely new to me and I was loving it. No wonder Mike loves composing, it is so freeing.

We made our way back to the AirBnb after grabbing some smoothies and laughed while we each worked on some creative projects. I pulled my manuscript paper out again to get started on some of the ideas that were vying for space on the paper. I went to bed early, enjoying the quiet time to read and write some thoughts down.
The next day we ended our trip by visiting a cute park up on the hill in St. George. After that we were ready to get back home. I was missing those little arms around my neck and I was excited to share what I had accomplished with Mike. It was a beautiful weekend. Full of love, laughter, and quiet.

My experience with the power of silence opened up a whole new world of music I haven't experienced before. It was amazing. I teach music, Mike teaches music, we listen to music, we make music, we help our kids make music, he writes music, I arrange music. There's always music present in my life, but this was different. It was my own music, coming from inside me when my world fell silent. I could hear it. It feels good to create special pieces for new musicians. It's not full orchestras or fancy, complicated music. That's not really part of my passion. It's simple melodies to inspire new musicians. It's beautiful and makes me so happy.

Fall Fatigue: Instructors

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 17:04:35 GMT

Marching band season is in full swing, fall sports have filled up our student's schedules, and the favorite sugar-inducing-coma holiday is just around the corner. Are you feeling the craziness of the fall season? We know we are! Here is a list of our favorite go-to stress relievers for the season:

Take a break. I know, I know, there's no time for that! Hear me out, let your ears take a break. Turn the radio off on your drive home, get up before the rest of the house and enjoy a bit of silence, don't turn Spotify on right away when you get home. Sometimes, our ears need a palette cleanser. As musicians we use them all day long! I don't know about you, but I even tend to listen to whatever noises the house and kids are making while I'm making dinner. They need a break, a bit of silence to give them a rest. Set aside a few moments throughout the day to give them what they need.
Collaborate with colleagues. Sometimes our weary soul just needs to talk a little shop with someone else in the trenches. Find a fellow music instructor and grab a quick drink together. If you're in a rural area, sometimes this is hard to come by. We love getting involved in our state organization for this very reason. You make life-long connections with people who know what you're going through. Shoot out a text to that buddy you met at the last conference. Sometimes just sharing a couple gifs that show how you feel can lighten the load a little and remind you you're not alone. We're all in this together!
Take time for self-care. It's a buzzword right now that we really don't have time for, right?! One thing we have found in our own busy lives with multiple jobs and a house full of boys is that if you don't take time for self-care, your body will make you take the time later in poor health. We love what we do and we want to be able to do it well, so we need to take care of our bodies and minds. Pick back up the hobby you've been putting off, take a long hot shower, light that pumpkin spice candle your favorite student dropped off last fall. It can be just a couple minutes, but you need to take a break and do something you just plain enjoy occasionally. Mike and I typically knit and crochet in the evenings. It's some quiet time after the kids are in bed and it keeps our hands busy while we watch a quick episode of our latest favorite series, "Artful."
Get out and move your body. We're at the last of the nice weather here in Idaho, so fall is the last chance to get in a sunny walk outside. I know our friends in the South are just getting weather that lets them go out without melting. Wherever you are, get a little Vitamin D and some movement in. It doesn't have to be a hike in the woods or an hour at the gym. We knew a secretary during our undergrad that would bring her walking shoes to work, put them on with her skirt during lunch, and go walk a couple laps around the track. Make a lap around campus during your prep hour or a quick walk around the block after dinner. Whatever you choose to do, let it clear your mind and reset your body.
Slip in a quick meditation. Last fall I took a course on meditation as part of my recertification. The benefits a short, daily meditation provide our bodies are incredible. I'm now a firm believer in daily meditation. I also believe we should include it in our classroom when possible, but that's a thought for another day. All it takes is a few minutes. I added mine to my morning routine. It helps me clear my mind and focus my energy for the day. Some people enjoy adding it to their evening routine to help their mind calm down and prepare to sleep. If you're interested in a little more info on the specific benefits meditation provides and a quick explanation on how to meditate, here is a short article by UC Davis.

This fall, don't let the busy schedules and endless prep for the upcoming holidays keep you from being an effective educator. Setting aside a little time for yourself can really help your mind and body reset and be ready to go again.