I teach beginning band in three K-5 elementary schools that pull from a variety of populations. I have several bands of energetic, curious, and adventurous elementary school students. They are always looking for something new and big to do and learn. They feel safe in my classroom, they trust me, and they know that I deeply care for them.
Our district has a long-standing tradition of strong music programs.
The foundation starts at the elementary schools. I have the fortunate opportunity to work at three of those schools. Teaching young students how to start a musical instrument is a gift to me. Seeing that spark when they make their first sounds, watching them learn to play their favorite tune, and helping them develop a life-long love for music is such a thrill!
My Project
I had a student last year who wanted to learn to play the drum set but didn’t have one at home. I found a bass drum that was falling apart, was able to make some repairs to the drum (thanks to our DonorsChoose donors), and then I presented the basic drum set to him to take home! The look on his face was priceless when I told him the news, and I’m glad I caught his reaction on camera! That leads me to my next project!
We loan clarinets, trumpets, and other instruments to students… let’s create a drum set loaner program!
Fast forward, I have another student who I am teaching right now who is really enjoying learning percussion, but she doesn’t have a drum kit at home. I was able to obtain a used set that was in decent condition, but the mismatching heads are completely dead with massive welts and holes. It’s also missing a few other small parts. With a few repairs, I can surprise her with this set to borrow at home!
I enjoy going into a music program that needs help equipment wise, and turn it around and make it into something great. I enjoy working to figure out what instruments we need to buy and fix, and I love to make teaching spaces that are inviting and make kids feel safe. I have done this several times in the past few decades, and I look at it like a puzzle and take it as a challenge. My wife thinks I’m crazy, but I think it's fun! I always make the space and the program a better place than when I started. Overall, I just enjoy teaching kids how to make great music!
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