“It is evident what an influence music has over the disposition of the mind, and how variously it can fascinate it: and if it can do this, most certainly it is what youth ought to be instructed in”. –Aristotle Politics
Many teachers argue that the benefits of music are made manifest in the academic test scores of students. They say the intellectual challenges of music better a student’s attention, academic scores—especially in math and reading, and ultimately create smarter people. While this is true, I believe that the benefits of music are not externally found in other subjects, but are located within the music itself. The aesthetic experiences in music help people to experience a deeper understanding of themselves, others, the world, and the ethereal.
I will help my students to grasp concepts beyond simply playing an instrument and comprehending music theory. My students will be able to attain multiple perspectives on what it means to be human in all cultures and times. They will be able to appreciate subjective views, voice their own, and learn to search for objective truths about existence, beauty, and virtue. Art should not be singularly considered the emotional expression and release of a person, after all. Also, music needs to be performed in such a way that listeners will be able to comprehend the depth of intrinsic and extrinsic meaning found within the music. Therefore, students must learn how to perform well. |
Teaching notes and rhythms will not be the end goal of my lessons, as with other teachers. I plan on using music to teach about the life of a composer, the controversy he or she faced, what the piece means for the composer and for each student, and what within the piece truly makes it beautiful, in addition to teaching impeccable musicianship. An appreciation of music itself requires diligent study and a large comprehension of literature. My students will have experience in all styles of music: from renaissance to postmodern, from folk to jazz, from composition to improvisation.
I will set realistic goals for my ensembles and individual students. As a young teacher, it can be easy to imagine that every student will prioritize my ensembles over everything else in their busy lives and be eager and enthusiastic about everything we do. Sadly, this is never the case. It is still my duty, however, to give each student the year of growth that he or she is entitled to in my class. The face of any music program within a school is ultimately found in public performance—the ultimate assessment of a music program. Even if my students learn much about other facets of music, they should be proficient on their instrument or voice, be able to address problems within their playing and ensembles, and be able to fix mistakes or adjust their technique for the betterment of the music. All of this will be achieved by well-organized classes, active student participation and discussion, frequent private lessons, listening assignments, and creative instruction. Since I will be sharing so much of my life with my students through my teaching, I will allow my students to share their music appreciation with me through the use of digital music technology. Several programs offer the opportunity to share music with others and I will encourage students to send their favorite recordings to me. Overall, my goal is to give students the opportunity to be self-actualized in a busy world with countless distractions. Music is both an outlet for stress and pain and a source of inspiration, comfort, and understanding. |
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