Kayla McLaughlin May 1, 2013 Music Education Philosophy Professor McCall Music has the ability to nurture a humans

whole self. It effects the body, mind and soul of a person. Music is a part of every individuals life whether they are aware of it or not. It is safe to say that every person is touched by music at some point everyday. Some regard it as a hobby, some use it as an expressive outlet, and some just like to listen. Whatever the case may be, music has a way of creating a nonverbal communication between all creatures. It is my responsibility as a future music educator to ensure that this communication through music is passed onto a new generation. My dream as a music educator is to be able to connect with my students through my passion for music and create unforgettable positive experiences for them. I do not believe that the sole reason music should be taught in schools is for the sake of excellent performance. My goal as a teacher is not to produce the best choir but to build the character of my students. Music has the ability to create a community within a school. It requires unity under a common goal of making the most beautiful sound possible. Music gives children the opportunity to be a part of something larger than themselves. It teaches values of cooperation and positivity in an environment that is engaging and comfortable. From an early age music teaches students about responsibility and dedication. In joining a musical ensemble they are making a commitment not only to themselves but also to a large group of their peers. They are held accountable for knowing their material and being prepared for rehearsals. Music builds self-esteem in children and adolescents and give students a

sense of accomplishment that they may not feel in school normally. Through music, students learn important values that will be used in their day-to-day lives as adults. In the youngest students, music serves as a means to developing motor skills. It enhances their listening skills and auditory processing. Through the Dalcroze method, youngsters can learn how to move according to sounds and make associations between music and movements. Additionally, for many students, music serves as an emotional outlet for issues they may be having elsewhere in their life. Some students look to their music classes to escape from hardships or problems or as a way to express those emotions that they are feeling but dont want to talk about. A teacher must recognize the students who may be struggling elsewhere but excel in music. The music room should act as a sanctuary for those students who identify with this art and it is up to the teacher to maintain this atmosphere in the classroom. Aside from the basic qualifications of being a teacher, music teachers specifically need to be especially welcoming. Often times children fear music class because they think they will be judged or ridiculed. However, the beauty of music is that it allows us to let go of our inhibitions. If music teachers encourage a supportive and nonjudgmental atmosphere within their classroom, students are more likely to take that attitude with them throughout their daily lives. Because music is such a personal form of art, teachers must be easy to talk to and approachable. They must show compassion towards their students and accept them so that the students feel comfortable communicating themselves both musically and verbally. The most difficult task of a teacher is finding the balance between being a good friend to their

students while also maintaining the distinction that they are the one in charge. Once that difference has been acknowledged, the teacher should make an effort to create a good rapport with their students. Having good relationships with your music students establishes the ideal conditions for making excellent music while connecting to each of your pupils. I want to welcome all students into my classroom with the intention of developing their musicianship but more importantly to develop their motivation to excel. As an educator I will strive to channel their enthusiasm into constructive learning while also keeping the fun of music alive. My hope is to make people fall in love with music and to instill my passion for music in my students. We can teach all of the theory and fundamentals that we want but without passion, music cannot exist. Along with that, we must be able to keep our students engaged in the material throughout their experience. It is vital to listen to the wants of the students when planning lessons and concert repertoire. I think a balance between teaching and entertaining the students is an important one to find. It is essential that they enjoy being in the classroom as much as they enjoy learning about the music. Implementing world music in the classroom is an important part of educating the full student. Individuals are able to experience something completely different from what they are used to hearing. Additionally, the use of world music in the classroom gives students an inside look at the culture of parts of the world that they may never be able to travel to. Teaching students about multiculturalism allows them to be exposed to brand new ideas and shows them how to think globally about music, giving them a more broad perspective on the world. By giving

students this education we are teaching them about appreciation and acceptance of other cultures and expanding their perspectives not only as musicians but as citizens. Assessment is a vital part of teaching music. I do not want there to be a sense of competition in the classroom whatsoever, however the teacher to show that all students are where they should be in their development as musicians must use assessment. The teacher must find ways of assessment in an environment where the student is not under any sort of pressure. Dr. Frank Abrahams states that In partnership with their students, they (teachers) assess and help to revise, refine, refocus and redefine. Teachers with their students set standards and seek excellence. Students are under enough stress as it is and I hope that my classroom is a place where they feel they can always relax while striving for their absolute best. Music is centered around free expression and my classroom will be a haven for creativity. I hope to create a place where all students feel comfortable in their own skin. Music is a constant challenge; there is always something that can be improved upon. Because of this fact, students learn a discipline and hunger for excellence that will certainly be utilized in music and elsewhere. Music completes a person and develops a well-rounded student. The most fulfilling feeling a teacher can have is to know that they have touched the lives of their students, no matter how big or small the impact was. Music has the capability to change the life of student. To be the means by which this change occurs is the greatest satisfaction a person can ask for.