As an educator, I see my purpose to be to ignite the passion of students to be lifelong learners. Music is a complex and diverse subject that relates to each individual’s life in a multitude of ways and it is my hope that students continue to explore this subject even after they leave my classroom. Aaron Copland once said, “So long as the human spirit thrives on this planet, music in some form will accompany and sustain it.” This belief is emblematic of what I want my students to gain from my teaching. It is my goal that when students leave my class they will have the skills to be able to make informed and intellectual choices with the music in their lives.
My intention is to have students have a deep understanding of how music is an integral part of history and culture. Music is one of the few connecting factors of all cultures throughout time. It provides students with a window into the values and lives of societies throughout history and of those with different cultures. Through this lens, students will develop into citizens with a global perspective.
Another goal I have for my students is to have them progress towards musical literacy. I use the Gordon methodology of Music Learning Theory, which aims to teach music literacy in a way similar to how humans become literate in language. I have easily adapted this approach to work with students of all ages and meet the needs of any individual, helping all students to progress towards successful audiation and music reading ability.
One of the joys of being a music educator is getting to watch student grow in many ways. I believe a successful music program strives to foster musical knowledge and appreciation, commitment to excellence, and personal growth. I work to have each of my students develop musically, scholastically, and personally. I want for them to take part in a risk-taking, while still supportive, environment where they will experience rigorous, high-quality music making with a positive personal experience. Ultimately, I want my students to create meaningful experiences as individuals and as members of a community with skills that will last them throughout their life.
