Learn, Learn, Learn
It is tempting to slip into the we’ve-always-done-it-this-way rut. Life becomes a series of habits and complacency takes over creative thinking. For your own continuing growth, invite a respected colleague to review your program and make suggestions for future growth and improvement. Talk honestly and openly with your local stakeholders and mutually agree upon a plan to accomplish short-range and long-range goals. Open your ears to the thoughts and opinions of your students and be appreciative of their candor, even though you may not agree. Continue your professional growth by attending workshops, reading professional journals, blogs, magazines, webinars, and— above all—listening to outstanding music performed by the finest musicians of the day. Keep your ears, your eyes, your thoughts, and your mind open. And, above all, enjoy the journey. We live in a country that knows the importance of the arts; we have only scraped the surface of possibilities!
Reflection: What learning could you explore this summer to help improve your skills as a music educator regarding relationship building, connecting, and/or motivating your student and parent community?
Printed with Permission. GIA Publications, Inc.
