The Neil A. Kjos Music Company was founded by its namesake in Chicago in 1936 as a one-room operation in space rented from the Lyons Band Instrument Company. By 1957, the company had outgrown the premises at Lyons and built a 20,000 square foot plant in Park Ridge, Illinois. Neil A Kjos, Jr., soon began working for the company after receiving degrees from St. Olaf College and Teachers College, Columbia University, and serving in the 524th Air Force Band. During his studies, Neil Jr. met Jane Smisor Bastien, future author of the best-selling piano methods around the world. Neil Jr. acquired the title of president when his father retired in 1969. In 1973, Neil Jr. determined that the company should expand to a part of the country with a more reasonable climate. A location in San Diego, California, was selected for the construction of a new plant. After completion in 1975, the Neil A. Kjos Music Company operated from both San Diego and Park Ridge. In 1985, the Park Ridge location closed, and all operations were transferred to the newly expanded facility in San Diego. Neil Jr.’s two children, Mark and Tim, joined the company in the mid-1980s. Upon Neil Jr.’s retirement in 2000, Mark and Tim, with their strong business and music backgrounds, continue the legacy established by their grandfather and father. Since its inception in 1936, the Neil A. Kjos Music Company has pursued the goal of publishing the most effective methods and compositions for music teachers and students. Kjos Music continues to set the standard in all areas of the educational music publishing industry.
''Standard of Excellence'' series
The most popular books in the series are the Standard of Excellence Band Method volumes. Among the band titles and three volumes for nearly every instrument used in a band. Each of the books comes with Standard of Excellence's IPAS software. The software has every piece from the book and a program where the user can play along, receiving guidance as to whether the note was done properly or not. It is claimed by some to be the most comprehensive band method ever.
''Tradition of Excellence'' series
Tradition of Excellence is a comprehensive and innovative curriculum designed to appeal to today's band students. The music; the dynamic look; the scope and sequence; the tools for differentiated instruction; the smooth pacing with careful review; and the included INTERACTIVE Practice Studio make Tradition of Excellence the fastest growing band method today!
''String Basics'' series
String Basics: Steps to Success for String Orchestra is a comprehensive method for beginning string classes. Utilizing technical exercises, music from around the world, classical themes by the masters, and original compositions, students will learn to play their string instruments in an orchestra. Step-by-step sequences of instruction will prove invaluable as students learn to hold their instrument and bow, finger new notes, count different rhythms, read music notation, and more.
Introduction To Artistry In ''String'' series
The comprehensive approach of Artistry in Strings provides all the basic tools necessary for establishing solid technique and expressive music making! Perfect for classroom, group, or private instruction. Each book includes music theory, composition, listening exercise, improvisation, ensemble performances, and interdisciplinary studies for a well-rounded approach. Music styles include classical, jazz, country, rock and folk music from a variety of cultures around the world.
''Bastien Piano Basics'' series
Bastien Piano Basics is a collection of piano instruction books targeted to children ages 7–11 from the primer level to level 4. This series is authored by James Bastien and Jane Smisor Bastien. There are many supplementary books within the series.
