My beliefs about music education stem from my experiences listening to, studying, performing, sharing, and teaching music. Music’s ability to build community among its producers and consumers has always fascinated me. It has undeniable power over the mental, physical, and emotional states, and must be experienced to be truly understood. I have found great personal joy in making and consuming music, and I believe that all students should have opportunities to enjoy and discover it.
My beliefs have also been strongly influenced by the people I have shared these experiences with. Dedicated teachers and mentors have shared their love of music with me and encouraged me to pursue it. They have taught me that music requires both passion and discipline—it should be a source of joy, but also studied and practiced vigorously. They have used their skills as teachers and musicians to pique my interest, provide me with opportunities for further study, and encourage me along the way. These relationships and experiences have played an essential role in the development of my beliefs about music, its role in education, and my teaching philosophy.
The following quote by Albert Einstein is one of my favorites; it reflects my beliefs about education and the role of the teacher: “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken
joy in creative expression and knowledge.” Teachers must “awaken,” not impose, the joy of learning and creativity in their students. Education exists to create students who are lifelong, self-motivated learners. Each student possesses creative and inquisitive potential. Teachers must present questions and challenges that pique students’ curiosity and motivate them to access their potential. Then, they should give students the tools they need to be ultimately successful and grow as independent musicians. These tools include valid instruction, opportunities for discovery, challenges, and encouragement. By getting to know my students, I can provide experiences that are exciting, meaningful, and valid.
Teachers teach more than content knowledge; lessons about life skills, such as discipline, organization, responsibility, perseverance, and integrity must be infused into daily classroom life. I encourage this through my own example and by asking for the best efforts my students can offer. While perfection is unattainable, excellence may come as a result of hard work and dedication. I use this principle in my classroom and apply it to my own life as well. I believe I will forever be a student as well as a teacher. Education is a process, not a product. I look forward to enriching experiences that will further my growth as a scholar, musician, and human being. My goal is to instill this idea of continuous learning (and hopefully, musicianship) in my students as well.
