With students in flux between in-person classes, online classes, or a hybrid of the two on any given day due to the COVID-19 pandemic, band directors need to be more creative with their curriculum choices to allow for consistent learning between environments.
The Virtual Band Consortium, created by Hylton Music Design, was made for “COVID classrooms,” says Ben Hylton, composer, arranger, and owner.
The consortium formed in order to provide band materials suitable for both in-school and online instruction. Four songs each as well as fundamental exercises, harmony studies, and chorales will be offered to middle school and high school programs. The downloadable sheet music offers flexibility in instrumentation while backing tracks inspire students to practice and record their sessions. “It’s seamless from an instructional and learning standpoint,” Hylton says.
The curriculum costs $300 for a band director and is also available for individual musicians. In addition, directors can use the material to create learning projects for their students. For example, they can choreograph marching routines to go along with the music.
New pieces will be added to the collection through Oct. 15, 2020, and will be available as a package until May 1, 2021. After that, the resources will be priced individually.
Hylton is looking toward the future and is considering virtual consortiums for orchestra, jazz ensemble, and holiday concert band.
Hylton Music Design specializes in creating custom marching shows. For more information about the company or consortium, visit hyltonmusicdesign.com.
