Teaching Love, One Note at a Time

Today, in my classes, we will be playing music and sending love, as we always do. But today, we will be directing our love to the families and victims in Orlando. I urge you today to do what you can in your own lives to send love, to show your support to those who need it, and to fill the world with music, love, and pride.

Assessment: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly PART II

The third school that really struck me was the most frustrating. It was a group of students from a poor school. So many of their issues had to do with crummy instruments, an unfortunate lacking of a bass player, and just poor circumstances. This was really ugly and frustrating. And so… I decided to write about it…

Rookie Music Teacher Do’s & Don’ts

Sure… They might have thrown a ball at students when they played out of tune (seen it!). Do not comment on this in front of students. Well, who hasn’t conducted with celery sticks and carrots? NO NEW TEACHER COMMENTARY! And of course, when the students tell you, “We just used to take naps in here…” Do not disparage nap time during class (as much as you might be dying inside). Instead, try saying this to the students:
“I know you must have loved your last teacher. She clearly did _________ so brilliantly!”