You’ve learned the names, survived instrument rental week, and your ensemble is starting to sound like an ensemble. Now comes the tricky part: finding out what every student actually knows and can do before the first grading period closes and fall concert prep takes over.
Welcome back teachers and directors! The start of a new school year is filled with energy and excitement, but let’s be honest, it can also be filled with administrative hurdles.
You know this student, though “know” is a funny word for it, because they’ve made a quiet art out of not being noticed.
Teacher Pain Point: “I don’t have the budget, the venue, or a massive feeder program to build a thriving music department.”
When Chelsey Sweatman walked into Bridgetown Middle School 12 years ago, the choir program was practically non-existent.
You spend your days in the room with your students modeling tone, correcting posture, building ensemble skills, and doing the hundred other things that make you a great director.
There’s a reason music educators are a breed set apart. The before-school sectionals, the late-night concert prep, the sheer love of the craft that keeps you coming back every school year.
You know this student, too. They’re not a bad kid; they’re just unconvinced. The instrument goes in the case in October and doesn’t come back out unless you’re standing right there.
You already know the feeling. You plan an incredible rehearsal, you give clear assignments, you send students home with everything they need, and then Monday rolls around and it’s like the music evaporated over the weekend.
You know the student. They show up already knowing the piece you recently assigned, or they’re sight-reading the next page while everyone else is still working through measure four.
If your classroom feels like Santa’s workshop after the elves discovered espresso, you’re in the right place. The stretch before winter break can be unpredictable, but it is also the perfect time to have some fun with holiday activities, try something new, and get students excited to practice while they’re home for the holidays!