Can we talk about music teacher importance for a minute? I’ve talked about the value of music education and what students learn from a music class, why music education is important and what the world would be like if there was no music, and how you’re not just a babysitter, but a music teacher. But, I want to talk today about the importance of music teachers (you can listen to the podcast episode about this topic here.)
On those really hard days (you know the ones I’m talking about), remember why you became a music teacher. If you’re having a hard time remembering your why or just how valuable you are music teacher (yes you), I want you to keep reading below. Teaching music is truly a super power unlike anything else.
Super power #1… you can roll with the punches
Every teacher deals with unexpected interruptions in their day. But, if I can be completely honest, I don’t think any other teacher has to roll with the punches quite like a music teacher.
Your super power is in the ability to deal with teachers keeping a certain group of students out of music for the third week in a row, yet still making sure those kiddos stay caught up. An assembly is happening for the second time that week, and you were the only teacher who wasn’t aware it was happening. Students are out for a field trip you weren’t told about, and now you have to scramble to figure out a way to still get those students ready for their upcoming program.
You adapt, adjust, and just deal with it, because you know you’re there to teach music. Is it always easy? Of course not! It’s not easy when you feel like you’re viewed as the last man on the totem pole sometimes. But, you realize over time, you just have to let the small things go. Sometimes being a team player really goes a long way in the eyes of your coworkers. Then, over time, they’ll magically remember to update you ahead of time of the important things you need to know about.
Super power #2…you get to teach every child in your school
I think it’s so amazing that while classroom teachers form a relationship with the 25 students in their class, music teachers get to see every child. This isn’t always an easy thing to do. After you finally learn every name, are vaguely familiar with which students are coming from what class, and coordinate a good seating chart, you get to know your students. That’s the fun part!
When I first started teaching, I was so overwhelmed trying to learn everyone’s names. I realized over time, learning the names will come, but teaching them music is the main goal. As you teach your lessons each day, you’ll start learning the names of your students naturally. Even if you don’t, you have a class list for every class you can refer to from time to time.
The most awesome thing about teaching every child in the school is you get to see these kiddos grow up right before your eyes. You watch them go from a tiny little kindergartener to a big 5th grader. The older students respect you and love coming to music class, because you’ve developed a relationship with them over time.
You are the reason EVERY single child gets to learn music. Even the tough behavior kids, learning disabled kids, honor roll kids, and average Joe kids, you get to teach them all. You never know what creative spark you’re instilling into your students that they may have never felt before.
Super power #3…you teach music even when you don’t have a voice
Teaching without a voice is hard… period. But as a music teacher, you’re singing and talking all the live long day. Musicians and music teachers are some of the most creative beings in the world. Going back to where I talked about rolling with the punches, you will definitely do that when it comes to using your voice.
You wake up one day to get ready for school and immediately realize no sound is coming out when you move your lips. After slightly freaking out (it’s ok I promise), you improvise new lesson plans on your drive to school.
Instead of teaching new lessons, you do a review day of songs your students have already learned. You get creative with doing a silent lesson and hold up cards or point to what you want your students to do. You write on the board “let’s make this lesson fun today by all of us just communicating with nonverbal language.” Do you give up and cry because you can’t sing? Nope. You just go with it, because you are a superhero music teacher.
Super power #4…you are a team of one
You’re so lucky to have the art and P.E. teachers and the librarian on your team. You lean on each other for support and are the arts team. But, let’s be honest. You are the only music teacher. So, when it comes to bouncing ideas off of a team, you don’t really have one.
You’ll meet music teachers online, in your district, or may have a mentor teacher to ask for support, but if it’s an on the spot decision, it’s all yours. Over time, you’ll get more comfortable and confident in what you’re doing. After attending workshops and observing the way other music teachers do things, you’ll eventually find your groove.
Even though you’re just a team of one, your team is mighty. Keep on teaching music, because what you’re doing is oh so very important.
Why do you think music teachers are like superheroes? I’d love to hear why you think being a music teacher is so very important. I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below or share your thoughts on social media as you share this post.
Also, I’d love for you to share this post or any of the resources on my website with a friend or colleague who you know NEEDS to see it.
P.S. Are you feeling frustrated or stuck as an elementary music teacher? Check out these free resources to help you teach elementary music with confidence!
Also…I wrote a book called “Make A Note: What You Really Need To Know About Teaching Elementary Music” to help music teachers move forward in your teaching career. You can get your copy here.
Thank you for writing this! A good encouragement for us all 🙂
You’re so very welcome!