As an organization that is over 117 years old, NAfME leaders are committed to realizing the association’s mission of being a collaborative community that supports music educators and advocates for equitable access to music education. Over the past two years I had the honor and privilege to serve as the NAfME president. It has been an incredible journey filled with connections, collaborations, challenges, and certainly great music. One of my main goals was to build meaningful relationships and better understand the diverse needs of music educators across the country. The following are some key observations and lessons learned from my time in office that I feel can apply to all music educators who are committed to making a difference for their students, schools, and communities.
Everyone is an Advocate
Each of us has numerous opportunities to advocate for our students and our programs. Hopefully our students find value, meaning, and relevance in the music they create, perform, and respond to in their classes, and share that with their families. This is where advocacy starts, and our students must always be the center of our why. It is critical that our message about the importance of music education reaches beyond the people who already know its value. We must engage our communities and elected officials at all levels, so they also know why and how music makes the world a better place. Take advantage of every opportunity to share the power music has to transform lives.
The Grass Isn’t Greener
Although this might be cliché, it is true. I had the opportunity to visit over 30 states during my presidency and see rich and impactful music education happening everywhere. We may think the situation will be better in a different school in the next county or in another state. Great music education is happening everywhere, and it is up to each of us to make it come alive and have relevance and meaning. Plant seeds and fertilize the soil where you are and realize it will take time for the blossoms to grow.
No One Is Alone
There are over 130,000 music educators in the United States encompassing all levels of teaching from PK-12 to university and college professors. Some music educators in rural areas and in urban areas report feeling isolated. The music education community is here to help. There are so many online forums, social media sites, professional learning communities, mentoring programs, and more, all designed to connect and assist music teachers. Do not let the stress and overwhelming feelings of the day bring you down. Reach out to your state’s MEA and they will find someone to help. Our music education profession is like a family, and we are here to help and support each other.
We Are Stronger Together
Over the years I observed that our profession has many silos and we sort ourselves in regard to the genres we teach, the level we teach, where we teach, and the list goes on. Each of us has our own unique background and we each approach music education through our lived experiences. However, at our core all of us are shaping lives and unlocking creativity, artistic expression, and so much more through the power of music. We must continue breaking down barriers, seeing the value each of us brings to the profession, and embracing the beautiful tapestry of every facet of music education. We will all benefit from seeking our commonalities and capitalizing on true collaboration in our schools, communities, organizations, and associations.
Opportunities Are Expanding
There is much work to do to review, revise, and reimagine music education in PK-12 and in higher education so it is more inclusive and reflective of our students’ cultures and communities. That is not to say large ensembles do not have a place in our schools. They absolutely do, and for many of us playing in the band or orchestra or singing in the choir is what inspired us to become music educators. AND, I have observed a growing emphasis on many additional types of ensembles, classes and styles of music that are being included in schools such as modern band, mariachi, world drumming, electronic composition, songwriting, audio engineering, DJing, and the list goes on. Talk to your students, not just the students in your ensembles, but the students who are not enrolled in a music class. Ask them what they are interested in learning and then talk with your administration to see if there is a way to provide new music opportunities.
Trust Takes Time
As we face the many challenges before us – a rapidly growing teacher shortage, the need to update curriculum and standards, societal and political influences, and the perennial challenges of funding, scheduling, staffing, and facilities; collaboration and connection are essential in moving our profession forward. We must realize we alone might not have all the answers. It is important to keep our egos in check and reach out for help. Building lasting relationships with a foundation of trust is essential and it takes time. Being open, honest, and sometimes vulnerable will strengthen our profession and maximize students’ music opportunities. This mindset also allows others to know you value their time and experience. Of all the lessons I’ve learned through my service, trust is the most important.
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