Yes, the dreaded "p-word."  We've all heard it.  We as band directors say it, preach it, demand it, respect it.  It's a habit that was instilled upon me at an early age, and something that I strive to teach the value of to all my students.

Developing healthy practice habits starts from day one of beginner band.  And it's a skill that lasts a lifetime.  If you're going to excel at ANYTHING in life, whether it be playing an instrument, performing complex mathematics calculations, or effectively communicating with a potential employer, practice is the means for accomplishing any goal or task.

Band students know that if they want to perform at their very best, they must diligently practice their instrument. The countless hours in the practice room can yield amazing results if approached the right way.  We've all heard the phrase "practice makes perfect." But it's the quality of practice that really matters. Instead I like to say "perfect (or deliberate) practice makes perfect."  

So whether your student is embarking on their 1st year of learning to play an instrument, or their 10th, encourage healthy practice habits at home. Don't let them just "play" their instruments, but perform every time they make a sound. Encourage excellence in everything they do. They certainly deserve it!


-Mr. Moses

More Reading:

I frequently visit a blog called The Bulletproof Musician. The guy that created it is a Performance Psychologist on faculty at The Julliard School.  I consider him an expert on the field on practice and has tons of advice for budding musicians :-)

Check out this article by Geoff Colvin (editor and columnist for Fortune magazine and author of Talent is Overrated), which argues why you don't have to be naturally talented to be successful. 

CMS Band Parents,

Early voting begins tomorrow in the McKinney ISD Tax Ratification Election (TRE). Less than 10% of registered voters typically show up for these elections, even in neighboring cities. Regardless of how you choose to vote, please exercise your right to vote and encourage as many people as you know to do the same. 

Welcome to all members of the CMS BAND!! Whether you are a student or parent of a student, new or returning, we are so glad you are here!  Your directors have been tirelessly working the past 2 weeks getting ready for the new year.  WE ARE READY! Are you?

One big change you will notice is the NEW WEBSITE. It's more streamlined than last year's site and will be easier for members and parents to access information about the Cockrill Band. Take some time to look around... 
a couple key things to notice:

1. At the very top of the site are links to social media. Find and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. These sources (including this site) will be important ways to stay connected to the Cockrill Band.

2. The CMS Band Handbook (including forms and fee sheets for the new year) can be found under "More Info."  We will go over all of this in class.

3. Under "Bands" are links to every single band class at CMS.  Beginner classes can be accessed under Beginner Band.  Here, students will be able to download music and find other important things that pertain to their specific class. It is password protected. We will let students know the password in class (and will send parents an email with this information as well).

4. An updated Private Lesson Teacher list is on the far right. Private lessons are HIGHLY encouraged throughout the year. Contact the teacher directly to set up lessons and times.

2013-2014 is going to be a GREAT YEAR! See you tomorrow!