How (not) to write a B♭ french horn beginners method book by Isabelle Roelofs

Name: Isabelle Roelofs Main subject: Master Natural Horn Research supervisor: Daniel Salbert Title: How (not) to write a Bb French Horn beginners method book Research question: How (not) to write a Bb French Horn beginners method book Summary of the results: As a horn teacher, I realize that the existing Dutch method books seem not to be written from the perspective of a beginning, young horn player. They show little consideration for the specific physical abilities of children at a young age when learning to play the horn, probably because those methods are mostly not written by a horn player. Therefore, I have researched the do's and don'ts behind writing a method book. If playing the exercises in a method is not physically feasible, it can lead to frustration for the student, which, in my opinion, is detrimental to the learning process. I have always learned that moments of success are crucial for the development and maintenance of motivation. I find these moments of success lacking in existing Dutch-language horn methods. I also believe that they progress too quickly to emphasize reading notation. I notice that my own students often prioritize correctness over musicality. I have critically examined and compared the available Dutch horn method books. Additionally, I interviewed fellow horn teachers to gather their perspectives. Furthermore, I attended a lesson for young horn players at BASIS (Royal Conservatory of the Hague) where auditory learning takes precedence. I am not the first to consider writing my own method. Other horn teachers have embarked on this journey, each with their unique motivations. My research has revealed that I am not the only one who has critical thoughts about the existing horn method books. A significant part of the interviewed teachers also emphasized this same point. Based on the obtained results, I have outlined the initial steps that, in my opinion, are necessary for a starting young horn player, along with the corresponding range of tones. Biography: Isabelle Roelofs, an accomplished horn player and dedicated music teacher, earned degrees in French Horn and Music Education from Codarts University. Graduating with honors from the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, she is currently pursuing a Master's in Natural Horn at The Hague Conservatory with Teunis van der Zwart. Isabelle is the founder of Belle Musique (2018), where she imparts her musical knowledge through personalized horn lessons, shaping the future of horn players step by step.

Translation:

Job Vacancy: Brass Teacher

Constantia Music Association in Werkhoven is currently seeking a:

BRASS TEACHER (m/f)

Constantia Music Association is a vibrant and active organization in the Kromme Rijn region, boasting a brass band, percussion group, brass ensemble, saxophone quartet, and starter orchestra. Constantia Music Association offers its own educational program where students receive weekly one-on-one lessons following the HAFABRA curriculum. Our club building in Werkhoven is available for lessons and rehearsals. Students are prepared for entry into the brass band and percussion group through participation in the starter orchestra.

Who are we looking for:

An enthusiastic brass teacher with a Bachelor's degree from a conservatory or in the final stages of your studies, specializing in one of the following instruments: trumpet, flugelhorn, French horn, baritone/euphonium, and trombone; You encourage and motivate students in their individual development, following the HAFABRA curriculum. We aim for a minimum level of diploma A and encourage students to achieve diploma B (and beyond); You creatively deliver the curriculum (both theory and practice), tailored to the needs of each individual student. You are flexible and possess improvisational skills, both in content and organization; Your enthusiasm and teaching experience bring out the best in students! You easily connect with students and communicate effectively with parents and the board; Your ideas and creativity contribute to our (elementary) school projects, which have both educational and promotional aspects. Preferably available on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons.

What do we offer:

A lively and active association; Currently approximately 3 teaching hours; Teaching hours depending on student demand; Compensation to be discussed.

If you believe you are the right person for this exciting opportunity, we would like to receive your written motivation as soon as possible at the following email address: info@constantiawerkhoven.nl

Due to the upcoming summer vacation, this vacancy will remain open until August 15, 2022. If we are enthusiastic about your application, we will schedule an initial interview as soon as possible. The date for this interview will depend on both your availability and ours, so please indicate your availability!

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Isabelle Roelofs - How (not) to write a B♭ french horn beginners method book - 2024