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While a music education degree should provide a strong foundation in pedagogy, conducting, and music theory, the first year as a band director is often a rude awakening. New directors soon discover that the day-to-day work involves a host of challenges from complex budget negotiations to equipment logistics and parent management for which they received little, if any, formal training.

This book is a practical, survival guide for navigating the unwritten realities of the job. It moves beyond the rehearsal hall to address the critical, non-musical skills needed to build a successful and sustainable program.
Written from the trenches for those entering or currently in the profession, it provides invaluable advice and strategies for thriving in the profession that extends far beyond the baton.

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The book can be purchased with over 20 digital/editable files created over 28 years of teaching to make your life easier and the workbook/study guide is a great tool for professional development workshops or self-study!

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Author Bio

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The Unconducted Curriculum Podcast

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Purchase information and packages below

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Testimonials
 

The Unconducted Curriculum is a dynamic resource for every band director, combining actionable strategies with deep insights into leadership, culture, and sustainability. Since effective teaching depends on tailoring strategies to each classroom environment, teacher preparation programs face the difficult task of providing thorough, detailed guidance in a continuously changing educational landscape. This book addresses that need with practical, “off-the-podium” strategies honed over decades of experience. It is essential reading for aspiring, early-career, and veteran directors who aim to make their programs thrive beyond mere survival.

 

Dr. Michael Crawford

Lecturer of Music Education & Percussion

University of North Texas | College of Music

 

The Unconducted Curriculum by Chris McLellan provides multi-layered insights to classroom management in a music education program.  He has covered topics and provided resources that are not always taught in the general music education college courses.  This book is an excellent resource for both the beginner and experienced teacher.  It should be a “must read” added to music education curriculums to help develop the best directors of not only band, but any orchestra, choir, or music ensemble conductor.

 

George Strickland

Assistant Director of State Music Activities, Retired

University Interscholastic League, Texas

Alexa Young, CA

Use code: BACK2SCHOOL for 20% discount on all products through August 27!

Digital Editable Resource Files

Digital Editable Resource Files

$10.00Price
All resources found in the appendix plus a few bonus files. These are editable .doc files and include PDF versions as well. Many files updated on 8/11/2026

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