Par 3 publications
Par 3 Publications is a music curriculum startup founded by Joss Bowling and Nick Desjardins. As active music educators, we saw the need for music curriculum and resources that supports educators, provides flexibility, and incorporate contemporary best practices. We are working to update the Resource page with individual activities, lessons, and support documents for educators.
Mystic Methods is a method book series designed for non-traditional and mixed ensembles. The first of its kind, the series incorporates strings, winds, and percussion instruction for all levels. Educators in small or urban settings will find value in the flexibility and pedagogical support. The series also incorporates music theory and music history into daily activities. The curriculum features student-driven instruction and concepts from Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Mystic Methods is in progress.
ABOUT THE FOUNDERS
JOSS BOWLING
Joss Bowling - (They/Them) is Co-Founder and CEO of Par 3 Publications.
Joss is currently the Marching Band Director at Otterbein University in Westerville, OH. Born and raised in Northeast Ohio, Joss began playing flute in fifth grade, switching to bassoon their junior year of high school. They studied bassoon with Pat Kroft. Joss served as Principal Bassoon for the Alliance Symphony Orchestra for several years in Alliance, OH.
Joss holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Mount Union and a Master of Music Education from Youngstown State University. They have taught all ages from preschool through college, with a primary interest in instrumental music education.
Joss's research interests include curriculum development and design, equitable practices for students with disabilities, and student-driven instruction.
NICK DESJARDINS
Nick Desjardins - (He/Him) is Co-Founder of Par 3 Publications.
Nick has been working with public school orchestra programs for the last 7 years. He has taught 4th-12th grade strings and worked with the Canton Youth Symphony. He is currently the orchestra director at Franklin Regional Middle School, where he teaches middle school strings.
Born in Hartville, Ohio, he currently resides in Monroeville, PA. Nick began playing piano in first grade and cello in fifth grade, later earning a Bachelor of Music Education (BME) from Kent State University. He is currently pursuing a masters in Cello Performance form Youngstown State University.
Nick has studied under Kathleen Melucci, Si-Yan Li, Hannah Lintz, Arleen Scott, Alicia Tremmel, and Kathryn Griesinger. Passionate about music education, Nick strives to provide string instruction that focuses on not only teaching music but teaching through music with a strong focus on ensemble, developing students as musicians, collaborators, and individuals. Nick fully believes that orchestra is a place for everyone and all are welcome.