I am music to my core. I cannot remember when I first started playing piano or learned what middle C looked like on the staff. I do remember my first trumpet, my second trumpet, my flute, my organ lessons, and the nightly grind of practicing the piano for an hour or so.
I teach music because I love the smiles on the faces of children when they have learned a new song or mastered a new skill; when they have discovered through experience that giving one’s best effort and attitude and trying just a little bit of something long shunned can often open doors to new experiences, activities and enjoyment. I love the look of wonder and surprise when we begin singing about a person or event the students have learned about in history, literature, or art.
I don’t babysit, I raise musicians. I also believe I am teaching future presidents, children who will become successful leaders and citizens. Music is not an extra recess. The behavior and skills learned in music lead to a greater understanding of our culture, mastery of oneself – self control, and greater musicality, enjoyment, and understanding in all areas of life.
