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The article presents the author's tips for young band directors. The author states that band directors should understand that progress can be achieved by giving specific information. He underscores the need for the director to apply their knowledge about the composer, the available instrumentation, and the piece in playing music from a printed page. He adds the value of preparing for a competition, soft playing, and praising the students' progress and evaluating their performance.

The article presents information on the works of composer Johan de Meij. He is best known as the composer of "The Lord of the Rings," his Symphony #1, a 1989 work based on J.R.R. Tolkien's best-selling novels of the same name. The London Symphony Orchestra has released a full orchestral recording of this grade-six work in five movements published by Amstel Music. De Meij wrote Symphony #1 between 1984 and 1988. De Meij's other band works include Symphony #2, "The Big Apple," which was commissioned and premiered by the U.S. Air Force Band, and "Casanova," which was awarded first prize in the International Composition Competition of Corciano in 1999. Regarding his interest in writing music for bands, de Meij said that much commercial music isn't very good, but there is a good market for educational music. Although de Meij's college training was in elementary education, he was drafted by the Dutch army where he played in a military band. Gradually his interest in composing grew, and he later studied conducting and trombone at the Royal Conservatory of Music.

The article offers steps on how to choose solo and ensemble contests that inspire students.

The article presents information on the selection of repertoires for music education in schools. Directors often select repertoire casually or out of habit. Deliberate, thoughtful consideration at every stage is the key to finding high quality repertoire. Some works are needed to be chosen to teach specific musical skills, styles, and concepts. Even though popular music is sometimes included as a reward or incentive for students and can be used to develop technique, it usually offers little in the way of artistic development. The selected repertoire should reflect a wide variety of styles and historical periods. Reading sessions, promotional recordings, festivals, exhibits at clinics and conferences, performances, and colleagues or music dealers can all be sources for high quality works. Preliminary research uncovers useful facts about when a piece was composed and where it falls in the chronology of that composer's works. A call or letter to a composer often produces an outpouring of ideas and insights to the work.

Looks at the views of an individual as they relate to influencing persons while teaching music, referencing the book `How to Win Friends and Influence People,' by Dale Carnegie. Highlights of a number of guidelines the individual developed and applied to his work; What is the key to dealing successfully with people.

Presents information on the applying to music education, of the ideas from the book `Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,' by Stephen Covey. Information on how to initiate change; Discussion on the identify of goals; Examination of comments from respected conductors. INSETS: Comments from respected conductors.;A case study of the seven habits..

Looks at some of the methods which can be used by music teachers to prepare themselves for a new job. Information on factors which should be considered before taking the position; Examination of various aspects of music programs launched at schools; Approaches used by students to succeed in music programs.

The article focuses how to grab the interest of students to the music program. William Glasser believes that the most common complaint of students was about boring assignment. In addition, an ongoing challenge for directors is to develop musicianship in an atmosphere of productivity that will keep the interest of students in the music program. Moreover, directors should look for opportunities for students to solve problems, maybe by asking students to evaluate a specific action and to suggest ways to improve. Directors should praise and recognise the progress of the students such as when the students show significant improvements in tone, style, playing positions, and eye contact.

An essay is presented in which the author offers suggestions to music educators on being a professional and ensuring one's success. The suggestions include taking extra time to look good by ironing one's clothes and polishing one's shoes, remaining active by walking the room during rehearsals and classes, and spending time on planning things need to be done and prioritizing them.

Presents the author's views on the band directors associated with the National Band Association. View that the band directors should live life and become the person they aspire to be; Importance of setting one's goals; Opinion that musicians and music teachers serve their art by serving their students.

Presents information on the National Band Association (NBA). Efforts made by Past President David Gregory and his administration for continuing to promote bands, band music and band music education through their work; Information on the 2004 summer convention that was held in conjunction with the Bands of America summer workshop; Appreciation of the 2002-2004 NBA Executive Committee for their outstanding work.