As COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines have curtailed much of in-person music instruction, the soldiers of The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” have developed several platforms to help music educators.
The Army Band’s musicians have spent the summer months developing and recording hundreds of hours of educational video content specific to the challenges of mastering individual band, orchestra, and jazz instruments. There are more than 100 videos published, covering subjects ranging from basic skills like how to assemble the instrument for the first time, to advanced concepts.
In addition, the Army Band has developed its own Discord server, which allows students and teachers the unprecedented opportunity to interact directly with the Army Band’s world-class musicians, who are available to answer questions, provide feedback on video and audio recordings, or offer advice about practice habits and professional career tracks. The server allows everyone to interact in real time through video chat spaces, direct messaging, live classes, and viewing parties for live and prerecorded performances. Joining is easy; use this invite link and follow the prompts.
In addition, new virtual masterclasses are an ideal method of online classroom engagement. The Army Band will work directly with you to determine the subjects and material you would like to see covered with your students, ranging from practice techniques, specific instrumental challenges, careers in music, or any other relevant topics. The Army Band suggests initiating the process early to increase your likelihood of matching your schedule to theirs. To request a virtual masterclass you can fill out a Google request form and attach a signed letter of request on school letterhead.
If you have questions about any program listed above, or if you have additional ideas for video content and other educational resources, the Army Band would love to hear from you. Master Sgt Leigh Lafosse is a Clarinetist and Education Coordinator for The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” You can reach her at armybandeducation@gmail.com.
