My Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is not complicated. My goal as a teacher is to be the most motivational, energetic, organized, and prepared music teacher so that my students, at any age or ability, can achieve at the highest level musically and as a young adult.

Bringing energy and motivation is a large part of my teaching philosophy. I feel that students can easily see if a teacher is committed and enjoys the subject they are teaching. That students are attracted to teachers that 'buy into' what they are teaching and this creates a much more engaging learning environment.

Organization and all of the behind the scenes work that is involved with being a music educator is key to running a successful program. Making sure that everything outside the rehearsal itself is in order allows a teacher to handle the different day to day 'issues' that come up more efficiently.

Being prepared for rehearsal both mentally and emotionally is also important to the success of your students. Teachers should not bring 'outside baggage' to the rehearsal. Score study and practicing conducting are also key elements to a well prepared rehearsal.

I plan on teaching high school band when I am done with my master's at NIU. I plan on incorporating many different types and styles of literature into the repertoire. Students will be offered marching band, all levels of concert band, jazz band, pep band, solo and ensemble contest including multiple chamber ensembles, percussion ensembles, theory, music history and orchestra pit for musicals.

It is important to offer such a broad spectrum of courses because high school students all have different intentions as to why they continue in band. Whether they aspire to play at the highest level or are simply in band because they enjoy playing their instrument with friends, a well rounded program has all of these students in mind.

Music in student's education at the high school level is a not only a next step for them musically but it is also a great lesson in time management and responsibility. Students are becoming young adults and many are preparing for college. Band students tend to also be heavily involved in higher level academics, sports and other extra-curricular activities. Balancing these activities with band rehearsals is a great task and teaches students about responsibility and accountability.

Music is a great way to give back to community. Performances in concerts, athletic events, parades and other venues are a way for people to connect with their community. Having a connection between generations with the same fight song, national anthem or other musical piece brings a collection of people together that might have otherwise been complete strangers.