Everyday Wisdom for Inspired Teaching.

* Everyday Wisdom for Inspired Teaching, by Tim Lautzenheiser. GIA Publications, Inc. (7404 S. Mason Ave., Chicago, IL 60638), 2005. 158 pp. $24.95.

This book will appeal to those in need of an encouraging boost as they go about the day-to-day business of teaching. The advice is pithy, positive and persuasive. The author, Tim Lautzenheiser, is a well-known band director, education director for Conn-Selmer and national spokesperson for MENC's "Make a Difference with Music" program.

The very short chapters are interconnected, but they can just as easily be read separately. The first part focuses on the art of teaching, the second on developing an attitude for success and the last two on teacher and student leadership skills.

Good points are made about "teaching" as a role model, demonstrating courage, curiosity, perseverance and enthusiasm, rather than just talking about the importance of developing and sustaining these qualities. Equally pertinent (although not especially original) is the discussion about why many people fear success.

Scattered within these essays are some in-a-nutshell "laws," such as "I hear--I forget. I see--I remember. I do--I understand." Or, "Communication is not what we say, but what they get." Although true in any educational setting, these reminders that learning takes place only when concepts and skills are internalized are especially important when a music teacher gives practice advice.

While music educators who work with groups are probably aware of the need to develop student leaders and teach leadership skills, I suspect that for most independent music teachers who give one-on-one lessons, this is not a priority or a conscious goal. Reading the last half of this book, however, might stimulate some of these teachers to think again.

Effective quotes from famous people in different fields begin each chapter, and there are also germane quotes from the author's colleagues and friends. I particularly liked "I found out what unsuccessful people do, and I don't do it."

Sometimes how to achieve a goal--like excellence--is detailed in useful, specific suggestions. At other times, the language and advice is pep-talky and general. Those who enjoy and benefit from organizing their thoughts around catch-phrases and aphorisms will relate to Lautzenheiser's style and approach. Reviewed by Marienne Uszler, San Juan Capistrano, California.

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