1. Statement of Music Education Philosophy
! Music is my greatest passion in life. It is a universal means of communication, a
creative outlet, and a medium of emotional expression. Every individual can experience
it differently and should be given the opportunity to do so. My goal as a music educator
is to provide all students with the opportunity to experience music in their own way.
! Teaching music involves the complex balance of content instruction and
enjoyment. Students must learn the technical aspects of music in order to advance in
their music education, but they must also enjoy the learning process. When students are
engaged in the content, they make connections more easily and are more likely to retain
the detailed knowledge gained along with the overall positive feelings toward the
subject.
! I hope to present musical content to students in ways that engage them as
individual learners with varied interests, experiences, and backgrounds. It is extremely
important to create an open, safe environment for students so they feel comfortable
expressing themselves in the classroom through the musical opportunities provided.
While connecting to students and building professional relationships with them comes
naturally, I hope to improve my own instructional differentiation through close
attention to the interests and backgrounds of my students.
! I will continually strive to improve my own teaching for the sake of my students
through frequent participation in professional development opportunities. My
involvement with various organizations and personal reflection will serve as guides and
reminders that there is always something to learn. Students will recognize and respect
my efforts to be the best musician I can be for their sake.
! Through mutual respect and collaboration, my students and I will work together
in the classroom as a team. Through this nurturing environment I hope to develop well-
rounded musicians with a life long appreciation for music. Whether or not students
become famous opera starts or concert violinists does not interest me as much as their
ability and willingness to sing a lullaby to their future children.