About the Book

This book helps band directors teach and develop successful jazz programs in middle schools and high schools. Ronald E. Kearns provides a step-by-step approach to starting a jazz program, teaching jazz performance, and maintaining the program once it has been established. He addresses a variety of topics, including:

the first steps that need to be taken

introductory jazz pedagogical skills

sample lesson plans

suggested literature

budget development

recruiting

retaining

classroom management

Oftentimes, band directors—especially those who are classically trained—find themselves woefully unprepared to teach jazz since many colleges and universities only provide a cursory look at teaching or developing a jazz program. This book provides the practical tools that will help directors overcome these challenges.