The 'Habits' Method Series

Developing Technique, Character, and Ensemble Artistry

The “Habits” series, spearheaded by Scott Rush and published by GIA Publications, has become one of the most popular and comprehensive collection of instructional books for school music programs. Covering ensembles from beginning stages through advanced high school groups, these books address technical development, daily warm-up habits, score study, and ensemble leadership.

Key Editions in the Series

• Habits of a Successful Musician (Band / Strings): A comprehensive collection of tone-building exercises, diatonic and chromatic scale patterns, rhythm charts, chorales, and sight-reading exercises designed to streamline the daily ensemble warm-up.
• Habits of a Successful Band Director / Orchestra Director / Choral Director: Highly practical professional manuals offering advice on classroom management, budgeting, concert programming, parent boosters, and score preparation.
• Habits of a Successful Middle School Musician: A highly sequential, developmentally appropriate version of the curriculum specifically tailored to the unique physical and cognitive needs of middle school students.
• Habits of a Successful Choral Musician: Focuses on sight-singing, tone development, vocal warm-ups, rhythm exercises, and choral balance to build strong vocal literacy.