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Yamaha Educator Suite: Building the Next Generation of Music Educators

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    2026 “40 Under 40” Music Educators

    Meet this year’s roster of outstanding teachers — all under the age of 40 — who are making a difference by growing and strengthening their thriving music programs. 

  • Crescendo Orchestra violin player

    An Orchestra for Students with Disabilities

    A Virginia educator creatively tailors and individualizes music education for students with significant and severe disabilities.

  • delicate, small flower held in hands

    5 Small Things That Make a Big Difference

    Put these things on your daily to-do list — you’ll be surprised at how much they resonate with your students.

  • percussionist on drum set performing on stage

    Drum Set Configuration

    Build your kit around your musical level and style. Check out a music educator’s recommendations for beginner, intermediate and advanced players.

  • Justice Page Middle School band rehearsing

    Having Fun = Huge Participation Rate

     A Minneapolis middle school music program boasts a whopping 70% to 75% student participation rate. Here’s how the band and orchestra director accomplished it.

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Helpful Hints for First-Year Music Teachers

The 2026 “40 Under 40” music educators offers their top three tips for new teachers.

BAND AND: A New Concept for Band Class that Students Love

A music educator created BAND AND, a program where students explore composition, different genres, production and technology and much more.

The At/Over/Under Programming System

Use this simple system to select the right music for your ensemble, which will help your students shine and continue to grow.

How to Deal with Student Needs Beyond Music

Some days, you must be part parent, part counselor, part referee. Know when to report and when to just listen and be supportive.

When You’re the Only Music Teacher in the Building

You may feel alone, but you’re not. To survive and thrive, create your own team, set boundaries and just show up.

When Kids Compare You to Their Old Director

Don’t despair when your students say, “This isn’t how Mr./Mrs. So-and-So did it.” Be consistent and keep showing up.

A Framework for Healing-Centered Music Classrooms

An Oregon educator’s curriculum takes a holistic approach, blending social-emotional learning with artistic rigor and student-led leadership.

Having Fun = Huge Participation Rate

A Minneapolis middle school music program boasts a whopping 70% to 75% student participation rate. Here’s how the band and orchestra director accomplished it.

Using Choir as a Tool for Belonging, Voice and Agency

Clear communication and empathy are the overriding tenets in Coty Raven Morris’ class at Portland State University.

The Many Faces of Trumpeter Allen Vizzutti

Classical, jazz, soundtracks and more — Allen Vizzutti’s career has crossed genres and his clinic teachings appeal to all generations. 

Add These 3 Exercises to Your Percussion Practice Sessions

Be a better percussionist by regularly working on your reading, rolls and listening skills.

Blending Brass

Here’s how to tame a brass section to craft a blended ensemble sound.

New to Teaching Strings?

If you are new to teaching strings, don’t panic. Top string professionals offer advice as you launch into uncharted territory.

Start a Guitar Program

A guitar program will provide a musical opportunity to students who would not usually join traditional band, orchestra or choir.

Fix It: Piano Pedaling Teaching Tips

Fix these common pedaling mistakes that piano students make.