The 5 Best Books I Read in 2021
Every year in December, I take some time to look back at all the books I’ve read in the past year.
If you know me, you know I always set out with a book list, and then undoubtedly change my mind as I discover books on Instagram, podcasts, and blogs, and as books come recommended by friends.
This year, I read 22 books (not counting the ones I started and didn’t finish).
The Practice of Paying Attention
It's that time of year—the last month of the calendar year and the first of a new liturgical year. The old and the new. An ending and a beginning.
A Holiday Wishlist for Music Teachers
What would you ask for if you were making a holiday wishlist for yourself as a teacher? New music? Curriculum resources? Piano-teaching games?
Today, I’m sharing a few ideas (and a few things that are on my teacher wishlist!) to help get you started. Enjoy!
10 Supplemental Collections for Intermediate Piano Students
How can we as teachers add variety and musical interest to their repertoire lists? How can we include more diversity in the composers we choose and the musical styles we teach?
A few weeks ago, I wrote a post with 15 supplemental collections for elementary piano students. Today, I’m sharing my favorites for intermediate students.
How to Write an Annual Report for Your Church Music Program
For most churches, January is the start of a new fiscal year, which means it’s almost time for that long-anticipated after-church event that may or may not include finger sandwiches and decaf coffee…
Annual Meeting (and your written annual report).
Today, I’m sharing a few outline ideas for writing an annual report, a simple checklist of things to mention or include, and a few real-life examples for inspiration.
Sometimes, It's Not About Getting Things Done
Here's something you may not know about me: time is my biggest motivator.
How to Write Your Own Handbell Processional
Sometimes, it can be hard to find the right piece of music.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the process of writing your own composition, step by step. Let's start with something small — a simple handbell processional.
A Whole String of Failures
Last weekend, Steve and I attended Beyond Van Gogh: An Immersive Experience. Here’s what I learned:
Q&A: Music Theory for Adult Choirs
Sometimes I get questions in my inbox that I think others may be wondering, too. Here’s a question I got recently about music theory resources for adult choirs.
15 Supplemental Collections for Elementary Piano Students
Supplemental collections are a great way to 1) incorporate a variety of musical styles into their repertoire plan, 2) expose your students to new voices (especially those who are underrepresented), and 3) foster motivation. Here are 15 of my favorite collections for elementary piano students.
I'm Ashley—musician, educator, writer, and entrepreneur. Here, I share creative ideas and practical resources to help you build a successful career as a musician and teacher. Learn more >>
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