While there is an inherent flexibility in Dr. Feierabend’s philosophy and programs, in this episode (Part 1 of 2) he describes what have come to be known as the “Feierabend Non-Negotiables” – those principles that, in his estimation, underpin excellent pedagogy and practice in the music classroom.

FAME Teacher Trainers Emily Maurek, Andrew Himelick, and Rachel Grimsby talk with Missy about First Steps in Music, Dr. Feierabend’s curriculum to help young students become Tuneful, Beatful, and Artful. Hear about how each of these master teachers came to learn of and embrace John Feierabend’s work and what, in particular, is so appealing to them about First Steps.

John Feierabend and Missy talk about Conversational Solfege, Dr. Feierabend’s curriculum that teaches music literacy with a sound before sight approach. Learn about the 12 Steps of Conversational Solfege and how through it, students learn to become independent musical thinkers!

John Feierabend describes the “8-Part Workout” of First Steps in Music. Learn about the Kodály foundations of FS, how it was developed, and why elementary general music teachers around the globe love this program!