MINER, from pg. 16
Part II: Advice for Elementary Music Teachers by Leigh Schaefferkoetter
I believe the best advice for an elementary music teacher is to create an atmosphere where your students have fun making music every day, where each lesson is musical and artful, and where your students can play, create, feel important and valued.
I would also advise the music teacher to find and utilize a music mentor to share ideas, lesson plans, and gain support. Equally important, strive to seek out workshops and trainings such as Orff-Schülwerk, Kodaly, and also attend seminars by educators like John Feierabend, Denise Gagne, and Artie Almeida. Each has a wealth of knowledge from working in the classroom as well as materials that are affordable, easy to implement and align with the music standards.
I was once told that a good elementary music teacher will not teach solely from the district-adopted music series, but will instead supplement with materials that will allow opportunities for movement, exploration,
instrumentation, unaccompanied singing, and self- accompanying experiences.
Remember to think outside the box. Healthy music programs often times are unique and innovative. Let the creative part of your art be displayed in your activities and presentations.
Also, learn the language of the building, build positive relationships with your colleagues (both music and non- music), help others whenever possible, find ways to aid your janitorial staff, and build solid relationships with your parents and PTO (Parent Teacher Organization).
It is important to be involved in your building-wide discipline, to be willing to adapt your classroom discipline, and to be flexible with your time and agenda. Focusing on the positive is beneficial for you and your students. Take the time to send a personal note to a parent, colleague, or student. You will be blessed in return.
The elementary music teacher has a gift of an opportunity... the privilege of having a relationship with hundreds of children. So, strive to be a person your students want to spend time with and someone they want to model. Be a light!
SPRING 2014 |
www.mmea.net
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