Normally, you read of the end of an era, but not this time. More about this below but first, the main topic of this issue is summer professional development. In UpClose, we include articles about three in-person summer programs, the Conn Selmer Institute National Event, the Modern Band Summit, and the Sweetwater Director Academy (hosted by Music for All). For those who can’t go in-person, there is Accelerate, an exciting new virtual program from the Music Teacher Guild and the Virtual String Teachers Summit by ASTA.
These programs offer so much to re-stock your music teacher toolbox and replenish your spirit. Invest in yourself this summer. All of these programs are accepting registrations now and will fill up rapidly. Don’t be left out!
Now, on to the start of a new era. For more than 25 years, School Band & Orchestra—and now SBO+—has delivered timely, practical insights to music educators, always free of charge. That commitment remains unchanged.
What is evolving is how we bring you the magazine each month.
We’ve made a significant investment in modernizing SBO+ from the ground up—enhancing how we create, produce, and deliver content so it better reflects how today’s educators read and engage. As the vast majority of our audience now accesses SBO+ on phones, tablets, and desktops, we are transitioning to a fully digital format built around that experience.
Importantly, SBO+ remains a monthly magazine. Each issue will continue to be presented in a familiar, page-turning format, complemented by articles released throughout the month at SBOplus.net—so there’s always something new to explore between issues.
This evolution allows us to move more quickly, expand our reach, and deliver more timely and relevant content than ever before. It also creates new opportunities to connect you with the ideas, tools, and resources shaping music education today.
Like many of you, I’ve always appreciated the experience of reading a print issue cover to cover. But this next step ensures SBO+ is not only keeping pace with our audience—it’s positioned to grow, adapt, and serve you even better in the years ahead.
As we were putting this issue together, we’re also preparing for next month’s unveiling of 50 Music Teachers Who Make a Difference. This year’s winners reflect the incredible dedication of those who teach music. There are teachers of band, orchestra, choral, general music, modern band, mariachi and more included in the 2026 class. Want to nominate someone for next year? Want to nominate a product for the next Teachers’ Choice Awards? Both of those are available now at SBOplus.net and click on Awards.
Our article contributors are an amazing collection of experts who are passionate about teaching music who contribute their invaluable work for free. If you find an article particularly helpful, interesting, or entertaining, please drop me a line at Tom@SBOmagaine.com. I will pass it on to them and I assure you it means a lot. Also, let our advertisers know that you saw their ad in SBO+.
Most of you have recently returned from Spring break. Summer’s coming – Live long and prosper! Bonus points if you understand the image that accompanies this article.
