Fireworks 006 - How do you tell the story of your work?

11 Jan

Issue 006 of Fireworks, the BBB magazine is now available to all BBB+ members.

Packed with BBB updates and our year in review, a new opinion piece written by Dr Anita Collins, a new research reflection, and so much more. Fireworks will inspire and motivate you to advocate for music education.

If you are not a member, click below to be view some sneak peaks into the magazine. Want the whole magazine? Join BBB+ for free to view all Fireworks issues, and well as unlocking access to our extensive library of exclusive research-backed music teacher tools to use in your classroom/online spaces.

Opinion Piece

Research Reflection

More to read

Advocacy

Show them who they can be

Advocacy

The “Wanna Be Like…” poster series helps music teachers show students how learning an instrument connects to success beyond the music room. This blog introduces the series, invites teachers to contribute new role models, and offers a free download of five brand-new posters.

Advocacy

Music Learning

Is your music class rhythm-focused, or rhythm-flexible?

Music Learning

Even toddlers can groove to the beat—this study reveals that young children naturally adapt their movements to changing rhythms, especially when music is playful and fun.

Music Learning

Music Learning, Neural Development, Memory

Music Isn’t a Break from Learning—It’s the Launchpad

Music Learning, Neural Development, Memory

Music isn’t just an artform—it’s a brain booster. This post explores how music primes the brain for learning by enhancing focus, memory, and emotional connection. For music teachers, it’s a reminder that every lesson is more than musical—it’s neurological.

Music Learning, Neural Development, Memory

Fireworks, Advocacy

You Already Know How to Advocate

Fireworks, Advocacy

What if the skills you use to lead a classroom were the exact same ones you need to advocate for your music program?

Fireworks, Advocacy

Music Learning, Parents

What if the key to music practice isn’t discipline, but autonomy?

Music Learning, Parents

Practice works best when it feels like play.
This article explores what really motivates kids to practise music—highlighting the power of choice, enjoyment, and small wins over pressure or routine. A must-read for music educators rethinking how we support practice.

Music Learning, Parents

Music Learning, Advocacy

The Biggest Mistakes We Make With Parents

Music Learning, Advocacy

What if perfect pitch isn’t a rare gift you’re born with, but a skill your brain can grow—shaped not by fate, but by how you listen, learn, and tune in over time?

Music Learning, Advocacy

Advocacy, Translation

Understanding the Brain, in Every Language

Advocacy, Translation

BBB resources are now available in multiple languages—because every brain deserves the chance to learn music.

Advocacy, Translation

Music Learning, Singing

Do we teach melody as deeply as we teach meaning?

Music Learning, Singing

Melody isn’t just about pitch—it’s how we communicate emotion, intention, and meaning in music and speech alike.

Music Learning, Singing

Advocacy, Wellbeing & Therapy

The chill factor: Music’s hidden superpower

Advocacy, Wellbeing & Therapy

Music Learning

Is “perfect pitch” really just about practise?

Music Learning

What if perfect pitch isn’t a rare gift you’re born with, but a skill your brain can grow—shaped not by fate, but by how you listen, learn, and tune in over time?

Music Learning

Advocacy

BBB Easter Campaign

Advocacy

Free Easter campaign download with posters and social tiles to help students understand the value of music learning.

Advocacy

The No-Extra-Work Secret to Music Advocacy

Advocacy

What if you could advocate for music education without adding more work to your already packed schedule?

Advocacy

Cognitive Health

How Music Learning Keeps Your Brain Sharp for Life

Cognitive Health

Engaging in musical activities offers profound benefits for our brains, enhancing various cognitive functions and emotional well-being.

Cognitive Health

Advocacy

Inspiring the Next Generation: Celebrating Ruby Mensforth, BBB Music Teacher Award Runner-Up 2025

Advocacy

While there can only be one winner of the BBB Music Teacher Award, we also recognize the outstanding efforts of our 2025 Runner-Up, Ruby Mensforth—a teacher whose dedication to fostering a love of music has left a lasting impact on her students.

Advocacy

Singing, Cognitive Health

How Playing Instruments and Singing May Boost Your Brain

Singing, Cognitive Health

Playing an instrument or singing in a choir isn’t just fun—it’s great for brain health too. A recent study found that people with musical experience have stronger memory and thinking skills than those without.

Singing, Cognitive Health

Advocacy

See, Know, Advocate: FREE Poster Digital Download

Advocacy

For many music teachers, March means concert season, assessment planning, and advocating for the importance of music education as budgets and schedules for next year take shape.

We know that speaking up for music in schools can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone.

Advocacy

Communication

Unlocking Team Flow: The Hidden Power of Making Music Together

Communication

If you've ever conducted or played in an ensemble, you’ve likely felt it—that moment when everything clicks, the music soars, and your group performs at a level beyond anything you thought possible.

Communication