From Chaos to Clarity!
February 17, 2026
By Tiffany Lisko
As band directors, it is perfectly normal to have a moment of panic about the way your ensembles sound. Do they sound clear, transparent, and characteristic, or does it sound more like the…
Presto Assistant Blog
Culture, Collaboration, and Communication: Building a Band Program Where Students Stay and Thrive
January 31, 2026
By Katie Lewis
Great band programs are built intentionally every day through culture, collaboration, and communication. These three pillars guide everything from daily rehearsals to long-term retention…
The Power of the Duet: Why True Team Teaching Transforms the Music Classroom
October 30, 2025
By Mary Winkler
After 22 years of teaching orchestra across various Texas school districts—Carrollton-Farmers Branch, Frisco, Lovejoy, and now Prosper ISD—I’ve learned that collaboration is one of the…
Band Event Planning Made Simple!
September 28, 2025
By Katie Lewis
Do you ever find yourself figuring out details at the last minute for an event? Sometimes even with the best intentions, plans can slip through the cracks. It is so crucial to plan out…
Keep Going, Keep Growing, Keep Singing or Playing
August 20, 2025
By Christina Chapman
Teaching choir and band is a journey that blends artistry, discipline, and heart. Every rehearsal, performance, and quiet moment of practice contributes to the growth of our students—not…
A Strategic Approach to Literature Selection
July 10, 2025
By Katie Lewis
Successful music programming is the key element to year long success and growth. With thoughtful strategy, deep knowledge of your students, and intentional teaching, you can create an…
Why Aren’t We Singing?
June 20, 2025
By Aline Moore
I’ve come to realize that something vital is missing from many instrumental music classrooms in the U.S. — something I took for granted growing up. It’s simple, powerful, and free: singing…
Balancing Life with the Demands of Leading a Successful and Competitive Marching Band Program
May 30, 2025
By Scott Coulson
Let’s talk marching band. As many of you know, I had a pretty successful tenure at Mesquite: Poteet High School. As Director of Bands, in particular director of the marching band, I know…
Surviving Your First Year as a Music Educator
March 30, 2025
By Ashley Westgate
As I recently found myself called back into music education after taking a long sabbatical to raise my young children, I was reminded of the difficulties of “starting over” in our…
Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail
March 1, 2025
By Trevor Ousey
If you walk into the band hall of any program with a long history of success, you’ll notice several similarities: engaged students, masterful teaching, and a well-organized rehearsal…
Recruiting with Rizz!
February 3, 2025
By Katie Lewis, Laura Bell
Are you seeking new ways to add some RIZZ into your band program? Are students chomping at the bit to be a part of your organization? Our goal is to provide specific ways to help address…
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