Ron Sike Jazz Vice-preident Keep On Keepin’ On
One of my favorite documentaries is “Keep On Keepin On,” directed by Alan Hicks. The documentary follows trumpet legend Clark Terry for over four years as he mentors a young musician. One of the final scenes of the movie is filled with emotion as Clark, who is in his 90’s and bedridden, still continues to teach. Unable to play his trumpet, he sings licks for the student to copy. And by teaching, he is also learning.
As educators, we know the importance of growing, learning and developing new strategies to help our students. During MMEA I had the pleasure of speaking with some of the finest music educators anywhere. The conference is a great way to network and share ideas. Listed below are some of the ways jazz band directors recharge their batteries and continue to grow.
Band Director Roundtable: This has been one of the best professional development experiences for me. Here’s the premise: I invite band directors to my house and provide lunch. Each director shares 2 experiences. First they share an aspect of their programs they’re proud of and feel is going well. Share the successes! Next, they share something with which help is needed. Then, other directors share ideas on ways to improve
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the situation. Topics range from pedagogy, technique, music program management, and the list goes on. We have lunch, share ideas and walk away with new energy to teach.
Clinics/Camps/Guest Artists: Guest directors and clinicians are a great way learn to a few tricks, but also offer another set of ears to hear your group. Many music stores from around the state are more than happy to send in a guest clinician to listen to your groups and offer feedback. A guest artist for a jazz concert will also bring a unique point of view.
MOAJE/JEN Membership: Consider becoming a member of Missouri Association of Jazz Education (MOAJE) and/or Jazz Educator Network (JEN). These professional organizations not only provide excellent resources for life-long learning, but they also open up networking possibilities. Educators associated with these organizations are always willing to help a fellow educator.
Take Lessons: Studying privately is a great to keep learning. Consider taking an improvisation lesson with another expert in the field that’s not on your primary instrument. As a young vibraphonist, I was looking for someone to guide me through
MISSOURI SCHOOL MUSIC | Volume 71, Number 3
learning to improvise. I decided to seek out a jazz guitarist. He gave me a new perspective on performing as a solo jazz musician. If you have little-to-no jazz in your background, find a teacher that will help you feel comfortable.
Sit-in:
One of my favorite things to do is to pick up another instrument and ‘sit-in’ on a jazz band rehearsal. Being able to play on the parts on your primary instrument is one thing, but to play another instrument will stretch you outside of your comfort zone. Your musical perception will change and allow you to relate to your students in how they might be struggling.
Whether you’re in your first or
your fiftieth year of teaching, there’s always time to improve. Your love of learning will be apparent to your students and will provide a positive example of what life-long learning looks like.
Keep on Keepin’ On.
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