I believe that through music education I can help guide life-long learners, music

appreciators, and establish practical 21st century skills that can help students
achieve in their futures.
Music students become life-long learners as music is a non-finite field, and is still
constantly expanding. The directions that music students can take their craft are
numerous and the desire and pursuit to become good at music, whether vocal or
instrumental, can last a life time. To become life-long learners I need to be able to
create bonds with the students that can last by connecting to them not only as a
teacher, but also as a fellow musical student. Beyond connecting to students at a
personal level, being able to appreciate music and share my passion for music with
the students to help motivate and inspire them will help my relationship with
students.
Music can establish 21st century skills of complex communication, collaboration
between groups of students, critical thinking skills, and creativity. These skills are
often overlooked when considering music education, but music is the most adaptive
place that these skills can be taught. All four of these skills are necessary for the
students of the coming years to be successful in where ever their life may take
them.
Music is more than an activity it is an expressional tool used by millions to voice
their passions, concerns, and feelings. I feel that all students should be given equal
opportunity to have their voice heard whether it is through writing, speaking, or
through music. I feel that through formal music education all students are capable
of becoming fluent in musical expression and can have a voice that otherwise might
be lost.

Andrew Sowatzke