Do you want happy, engaged students who can’t wait to get to orchestra rehearsal?
We all know the challenge: in a world increasingly shaped by AI and automation, how do we prepare our students to think on their feet? The answer lies in creativity. Encouraging creative work in the classroom is a proven way to help today’s students learn to solve problems and adapt—and there is no better vehicle for that than Flexible Fiddling.
I am thrilled to announce that I will be sharing these strategies at the 2026 ASTA National Conference in San Francisco!
Join the Session:
- Title: Flexible Fiddling: Folk Meets Improv in the String Orchestra
- Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PT)
- Location: ASTA National Conference – San Francisco, CA
What is Flexible Fiddling?
Flexible Fiddling is a kid-tested program that takes the guesswork out of teaching improvisation and authentic folk styles. It isn’t just about learning a tune; it’s about understanding how music works from the ground up.
In this session, I’ll show you how to empower your students to take on three essential roles:
- The Bass Line: Building the foundation.
- The Backup: Mastering the “chop” and rhythmic accompaniment.
- The Melody: Learning to play by ear and adding “micro-improvisations.”
Why It Works
Everything in this method is spelled out and classroom-proven. The building blocks are part of every single orchestra arrangement, providing teachers with a clear “lesson plan” to teach fiddling in a truly creative way.
Your students won’t just play the music; they will create it. They’ll arrange the ensemble themselves and learn to improvise with confidence. When students feel this kind of ownership, magic happens:
- They tell their friends that orchestra is “cool,” making your recruitment and retention easier than ever.
- They reach out to younger students to show off the authentic fiddle music they’ve mastered.
- They develop deep listening skills and rhythmic flexibility that carry over into their classical repertoire.
Get the Music Today!
You don’t have to wait until San Francisco to start transforming your rehearsal room. You can order the music and start the journey with your students right now.
- Order directly from my site: Jenny B Peters – Flexible Fiddling
- Order via JW Pepper MyScore: JW Pepper – Jenny B Peters
I am so excited to see you in San Francisco and help you bring the joy of authentic fiddling and improvisation to your students. See you there!