Scott Laird - Teaching Functional Musicianship in Orchestra - Creative Strings Podcast Episode 21

Creative Strings with Violinist Christian Howes

Scott D. Laird is the Fine Arts Coordinator at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he directs the orchestra and teaches courses in Recording Technology, Classical Guitar and Piano, and Music History. I've always admired his ability to navigate the worlds of classical, modern, and participatory musical styles- as a player, conductor, and teacher. We sat down to talk about bringing these worlds together through the lens of a string teacher. Scroll down to learn about: -Technical proficiency vs functional musicianship -Dealing with harmony, improvisation, and arranging in the group and orchestra classroom -When does teaching functional musicianship start? -Applying technique and tone in the context of a large ensemble -Groove and pocket in the orchestra -Do teachers have a responsibility to teach different ideas? -A litmus test for teachers: know your subject, speak to the students at their level, and come from a place of love Please take a moment to visit our sponsor Electric Violin Shop www.electricviolinshop.com/creativestrings, your one-stop shop for electric instruments, amps, gear, accessories, and most of all, expertise. Use code CHOWES at checkout and take 5% off of your order. Call 866-900-8400 to get your questions answered on "all things electric strings". While you are talking to EVS, be sure to ask them about the new Yamaha Electric Violin. I've been a Yamaha performing artist for almost 20 years now and am very proud to be a part of the Yamaha family.