Karel Butz taught orchestra in Indiana and Texas where his groups received several state and national awards. His compositions have been performed worldwide at several venues such as The Midwest Clinic, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, as well as region and all-state honor orchestras.

"A wonderfully accessible book: conversational in style, offering clear, applicable teaching strategies lodged firmly within the pedagogical canon and reflecting the latest research and best practices. With its emphasis on individual student development as a foundation for ensemble development, the book lays out a sequential approach, from the most basic building blocks to advanced musical concepts. Butz reminds the reader that technical growth should be viewed through the lens of music itself and 'the euphoric effect of music [should be our] chief motivating factor' as the end goal is lifelong musicianship of our students. Bravo!" -- Kasia Bugaj, Florida State University