themusicworks Blog

Summer Teaching

themusicworks — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:28:49 +0000

Some of us continue to teach in the summer months. It’s a great way to make more money and stay connected so that going back in the “fall” (really still summer) is not quite so startling. But avoid the pitfalls of burnout – be sure and take some time out for yourself during these months.

Summer is traditionally a time for vacations and leisure hours and spending time with people we choose for a change! It is so important to pace ourselves during this time – maybe somehow to make the comforts of those “days off” last into the winter doldrums.

I teach a summer college course, and it is a nice change from working with younger students all year. That provides me with a break of sorts and helps organize my thoughts and plans from one year to the next. The course is Introduction to Music for the Elementary Teacher, and it is fun to work with the regular education majors and hear their thoughts on both music and non-music topics.

And my other suggestion in the summers, in order to stay connected and at the same time get some important leisure time, is to network with your music teacher friends, both online and off. But you knew that! (And I hope you’re doing it!)

If you are in Missouri, attend the MCDA Conference! It’s a great venue and outstanding way to stay connected! Happy Summer!

end of the year – whew!

themusicworks — Tue, 25 May 2010 16:28:04 +0000

Time to get off the roller coaster and take some time for yourself? You deserve it!

Some Tips for Managing Your Summertime

Make sure you pace yourself. Have lots of fun, get going on your projects, but be mindful that it’s temporary! (Are the summers getting shorter? Really!)

Do things that you will remember once the school year begins again. Take pictures and keep them handy to bring back those “ahh” moments when you are in the midst of the “non-ahh”moments!

See people you don’t get to see often when you are busy. Take time out for an older neighbor or relative. You never know when a good deed will come back to you.

Stay involved musically – go to performances, practice your instrument, “play” with your musical friends. Good times roll a long way.

See if there are any conventions or workshops for your discipline – what a great way to combine work and fun if you can travel to another city for one!

Have a great summer – and come back refreshed and ready to do the important stuff again – passing music on to our young folks.

Music – it’s for real.

For Music Teachers Only

themusicworks — Mon, 17 May 2010 19:36:19 +0000

For Music Teachers Only

(And Others Who Work With Our Kids!)

A Helpful Perspective for Those Who Get to Listen

To Lots of Different Drummers

As you finish up your school year,

HATS OFF TO YOU!!!

Whether you are a seasoned teacher of many years, a newbie, or anything in between, know that you are making a difference of the best kind, in the most needed way, for so many of our most deserving children and young adults.

It is with the utmost respect and admiration that I write this book to those of you out there in the trenches doing the hard stuff. Someone appreciates you!

Let us hear from you!