As I am about to embark upon another new teaching year, I am, of course, attending to all the business details of running an independent music studio. But mostly I am thinking about how to better communicate the truly “musical” aspects of music – especially to students whose only musical gear is fast and loud! I rely heavily upon metaphors and images in my teaching – the nature of music practically demands it – so it seems an appropriate time to take another look at this article, Having a “Ball” with Staccato (American Music Teacher August/September 2006). And to all my teaching colleagues: May your words ring true and become music to your students’ ears (and under their fingers)!