Finding equilibrium between pursuing a career in music freelance teaching and fulfilling family obligations can feel like walking a tightrope. Both aspects of life demand time, attention, and dedication. However, with the right strategies in place, it's possible to strike a harmonious balance and thrive in both domains. In this post, we'll explore some effective strategies for managing your time effectively between music freelance teaching and family responsibilities.
- Establish Clear Boundaries: One of the first steps in managing your time effectively is to establish clear boundaries between your work and family life. Set designated work hours for your music teaching and office hours, and communicate these hours to your students and family members. Similarly, carve out dedicated family time where work-related distractions are minimized. By delineating boundaries, you create space for both professional and personal commitments without letting them overlap excessively.
- Prioritize Tasks: Prioritization is key when balancing multiple responsibilities. Identify the most important tasks for both your music freelance teaching and family responsibilities, and tackle them accordingly. Time block to get those one-time or weekly tasks done. Consider using productivity techniques such as Eisenhower's Urgent/Important Principle to manage your time efficiently. By focusing on high-priority tasks first, you can make significant progress in both areas of your life without feeling overwhelmed.
- Embrace Flexibility: Flexibility is essential when navigating the unpredictable nature of freelance work and family life. Recognize that plans may need to be adjusted at times, and be willing to adapt accordingly. Utilize tools such as scheduling apps or digital calendars to keep track of appointments, deadlines, and family events. Additionally, communicate openly with both your students and family members about any changes or adjustments to your schedule. By embracing flexibility, you can navigate unforeseen challenges with greater ease and minimize stress.
- Delegate and Outsource: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks or outsource certain responsibilities to others when necessary. Whether it's hiring a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks related to your teaching business or enlisting family members to help with household chores, delegating can free up valuable time and mental energy. Remember that you don't have to do everything yourself, and seeking support from others can lighten your workload and reduce feelings of overwhelm.
- Practice Self-Care: Amidst the hustle and bustle of balancing work and family life, don't forget to prioritize self-care. Carve out time for activities that recharge you mentally, physically, and emotionally. Whether it's taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in a hobby, self-care is essential for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. Remember that by taking care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to fulfill your commitments to both your music freelance teaching and your family.
Balancing music freelance teaching with family responsibilities requires careful planning, flexibility, and self-discipline. By establishing clear boundaries, prioritizing tasks, embracing flexibility, delegating when necessary, and prioritizing self-care, you can effectively manage your time and thrive in both areas of your life. Remember that achieving balance is an ongoing process, and it's okay to seek support from others when needed. With dedication and the right strategies in place, you can create a fulfilling and harmonious life that integrates your passion for music with your commitment to family.
As a music teacher, your schedule is likely filled with various responsibilities, from lesson planning and teaching sessions to administrative tasks and personal commitments. In the midst of these demands, finding time for everything can be challenging. But by implementing a strategic approach like time blocking, you can take control of your schedule and maximize your productivity during those small windows of time. Let's explore the concept of time blocking and how music teachers can use it to manage their time more effectively.
What is Time Blocking? Time blocking is a productivity technique that involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time, each dedicated to specific tasks or activities. Rather than bouncing between tasks haphazardly, time blocking encourages focused work by allocating dedicated time slots for different types of activities. By organizing your day in this way, you can minimize distractions, improve concentration, and accomplish more in less time.
How Music Teachers Can Benefit from Time Blocking
Music teachers can reap numerous benefits from implementing time blocking into their daily routine:
- Enhanced Focus: By allocating dedicated blocks of time for tasks like lesson planning, teaching, and administrative work, you can minimize distractions and maintain focus on the task at hand. Less distraction means more done in less time!
- Improved Productivity: Time blocking allows you to prioritize important tasks and allocate sufficient time to complete them effectively, resulting in increased productivity and efficiency. This feels good!
- Better Work-Life Balance: By scheduling specific blocks of time for work-related tasks and personal activities, you can create a more balanced schedule that allows for adequate time for rest, relaxation, and family commitments. I get so much done in dedicated 15-30 minute blocks of time!
- Reduced Stress: With a structured schedule in place, you can alleviate the stress and anxiety that often comes from feeling overwhelmed by a long list of tasks and responsibilities. The flexibility of this approach allows you not to work too long or too much as well.
How to Implement Time Blocking:
- Identify Your Priorities: Start by identifying the most important tasks and activities in your day-to-day life as a music teacher. This may include lesson planning, teaching sessions, administrative work, personal practice time, and leisure activities.
- Allocate Time Blocks: Divide your day into blocks of time, with each block dedicated to a specific task or activity. Be realistic about the time needed for each task, and don't forget to include buffer time for unexpected interruptions or transitions between activities. Make sure you dedicate the time blocks where you are most alert and awake and inspired for the more challenging, brain-heavy tasks!
- Stick to Your Schedule: Once you've established your time blocks, commit to sticking to your schedule as much as possible. Avoid the temptation to multitask or deviate from your plan, and instead focus on completing each task within its designated time frame. Set a timer and turn your phone to airplane mode for minimal distractions!
- Review and Adjust: Periodically review your time blocking schedule to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. Be flexible and willing to adapt your schedule as needed to accommodate changes in workload or priorities or family obligations.
- Use Tools and Resources: Utilize tools such as digital calendars, scheduling apps, or traditional planners to help you organize and visualize your time blocking schedule. Experiment with different methods until you find the approach that works best for you. I use Google Calendar and the tasks feature to organize my time effectively.
Time blocking can be a valuable tool for music teachers seeking to manage their time more effectively and increase their productivity. By allocating dedicated blocks of time for different tasks and activities and projects, you can enhance focus, productivity, and work-life balance. Whether you're scheduling teaching sessions, lesson planning, or personal practice time, incorporating time blocking into your routine can help you make the most of your time and achieve your goals as a music educator without feeling burnt out.
In today's dynamic landscape, many educators seek alternatives beyond traditional teaching roles to diversify their income and regain control over their lives. For the music teacher juggling a full-time teaching job with parenthood and a desire for autonomy, balancing these responsibilities can be overwhelming. However, there are opportunities beyond the classroom worth exploring.
As a music teacher, passion for nurturing young minds through music is undeniable. While the demands of the public school system are draining, the desire to create a more fulfilling career and lifestyle is achievable -- I've done it!
Whether offering private lessons, workshops, or community collaborations, this venture allows you to set your own schedule and align your work with your values. Transitioning to entrepreneurship requires careful planning and realistic expectations (which we've talked about here and here). You can begin by testing the waters with freelance gigs while maintaining your teaching job if you want to. This gradual approach allows you to build a client base and generate income without risking stability. I preferred to have multiple income streams moving and lined up before I quit my J.O.B.
One misconception about diversifying income streams is that it requires more time and effort. However, by selecting income streams that complement your main source of income — music teaching — instead of random income streams that aren't aligned, you can create synergy and make them all fit together seamlessly. This really depends person-to-person on what they are doing and how it fits best, but I learned how to do this in a way that saves me SO much time from my own business mentor through her signature course.
While the journey may be challenging, the rewards of reclaiming your time and passion for music are worth it. Embrace the possibilities and dare to redefine success on your terms.
If you have multiple income streams going already, what are they?
In the ever-changing reality of life as a musician (we all know it can ebb and flow... it's crazy!), each season brings its own unique rhythm and challenges. Balancing the demands of teaching, family obligations, and personal musical growth requires adaptability and creativity. Here are a few strategies for navigating the shifting seasons that have worked for me while also staying true to my own musical growth.
- Set Clear Goals: Begin by defining your musical objectives and the milestones you aim to achieve. Whether it's mastering a challenging technique, learning new repertoire or a new instrument, or honing your improvisational skills, clarity in your goals will guide your efforts and help you stay focused amidst the busy-ness.
- Establish Boundaries: While teaching and family commitments come first, it's essential to delineate boundaries to safeguard time for personal musical pursuits so that we don't become musically stagnant. Communicate your needs to your students and loved ones, setting realistic expectations and carving out dedicated time for practice or time with an ensemble.
- Create a Flexible Schedule: Acknowledge that different seasons may afford varying amounts of time for personal musical endeavors. Design a flexible schedule that adapts to the demands of teaching and family life, allocating resources accordingly. During busier periods, focus on maintaining consistency in practice habits, while in quieter seasons, seize the opportunity to delve deeper!
- Practice with Purpose: Maximize the efficiency of your practice sessions by prioritizing quality over quantity. Identify specific areas for improvement and tailor your practice routine accordingly. Embrace focused repetition, targeted exercises, and use your goals to establish priorities that make the most of your available time.
- Embrace the Power of Reflection: Use downtime between teaching engagements and family responsibilities to reflect on your musical skills. Evaluate your progress, identify areas of growth, and strategize ways to overcome challenges. Cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement, seeking opportunities for learning and development in every season.
- Seek Support and Accountability: Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow musicians, mentors, and loved ones who understand and respect your commitments. Lean on them for encouragement, advice, and accountability as you navigate the complexities of balancing teaching, family life, and personal musical growth.
Navigating the seasons as a musician requires a delicate balance between fulfilling professional obligations, nurturing familial relationships, and prioritizing personal musical growth. By setting clear goals, establishing boundaries, creating a flexible schedule, practicing with purpose, embracing reflection, and seeking support and accountability, we can navigate the ebb and flow of time while staying true to our musical aspirations as busy music teacher moms. Remember, each season offers its own opportunities for growth and discovery -- embrace it!
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is a prevalent yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including many singers and music teachers. While its physical symptoms are well-documented, the emotional toll it has on vocalists remains largely unseen. Let's delve into the hidden struggles faced by singers battling TMJD, shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of the music industry.
Understanding TMJD:
TMJD is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, causing symptoms such as jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping noises, headaches, and difficulty in opening or closing the mouth. For singers, whose livelihoods depend on the flexibility and precision of their vocal instrument, these symptoms can pose significant challenges. It can be a super scary place to be to not really understand what's physically happening!
The Emotional Impact:
Beyond the physical discomfort, TMJD can take a profound emotional toll on singers. The uncertainty of symptom flare-ups, the fear of compromised performances, the unknown of how long it will last, and the frustration of navigating a condition with no easy fix can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. I personally felt so alone in it often. I remember walking home from a choir concert on campus one night by myself because all of my friends went out for dessert afterwards but I was in too much pain to join them. I wrote more about these feelings in my chapter of The Truth About Finding Joy in the Darkness.
Navigating Treatment Options:
While treatment options for TMJD vary, singers often find themselves on a journey of trial and error as they seek relief. From physical therapy and dental appliances to medication and surgery, finding an effective treatment plan can be a daunting task. Dental professionals pawn it off on medical and vice versa. I experienced that over the course of 5 years before finding solutions (on my own) to provide relief.
Finding Support:
In the face of these challenges, many singers find solace in connecting with others who understand their journey. Online support groups, vocal coaches experienced in working with TMJD patients, and sharing experiences with fellow artists can provide much-needed support and encouragement. I'd be happy to be a sounding board or resource for you! I created TMJ Strong for this very reason.
The emotional toll of TMJD on singers may be invisible to the outside world, but its impact is undeniable. By raising awareness of this often-overlooked aspect of the music industry, we can foster greater empathy and understanding for those facing this invisible battle. To all the singers grappling with TMJD, know that you are not alone, and your strength in the face of adversity is commendable.
Do you struggle with TMJ pain? Or do you love someone who does? How does it take a toll on you emotionally?
Do you struggle with TMJ pain? Or do you love someone who does? How does it take a toll on you emotionally?
Embarking on a journey as a freelance music teacher is an enriching endeavor, offering the opportunity to share your passion for music while earning a livelihood. However, navigating the realm of pricing can often pose a challenge for many aspiring teachers. The question of what to charge for music lessons is not just about setting a number but rather about determining a fair rate that reflects your expertise, meets the needs of your students, and sustains your business. Here are some key considerations to help you establish your rates effectively.
Firstly, your experience and qualifications are pivotal factors in determining your pricing structure. If you have advanced degrees, certifications, many years teaching, students who have won awards, or extensive performance experience, you can justify charging higher rates. Your level of expertise not only enhances the quality of education you provide but also underscores the value you bring to your students' musical journey.
Additionally, it's essential to research the local market rates for music lessons in your area. Factors such as the demand for music education, the cost of living, and the prevailing economic conditions can influence what students' families are willing to pay. By understanding the market landscape, you can set your rates competitively while ensuring that they remain sustainable for your business.
The format and duration of your lessons are also significant considerations. Whether you opt for individual or group lessons or classes and the length of each session can impact your pricing strategy. While group lessons may yield lower rates per student, they can potentially increase your overall income by accommodating more students in a single session. Many teachers also give discounts for lesson packages (paying for more lessons at a time up front) as it provides them increased job security.
Moreover, it's crucial to factor in any overheads and expenses associated with providing music lessons. Studio rental fees, instrument maintenance, and teaching materials are all costs that should be covered by your lesson fees to ensure the viability of your business in the long run.
By carefully considering these factors and maintaining a balance between competitive pricing and fair compensation, you can establish rates that reflect the value of your expertise and foster a sustainable freelance music teaching career. Don't sell yourself short!
For more in-depth, customized answers to this and many more questions, check out Music Leadership Coaching.
Building a Personal Brand: Establishing Your Identity as a Music Educator Mom
When it comes to building a freelance music teaching business, building a personal brand and knowing who you serve is the most crucial part of the equation. And as a music educator mom, your audience is clear – your students, your children, and your community. They are the heartbeat of your brand, the driving force behind everything you do, but you need to get more specific.
Navigating the journey of establishing your identity can feel overwhelming at times, especially when balancing the demands of public school teaching with the desire for more flexibility and autonomy. That's where personal branding comes in – it's about crafting a narrative based off of your own experience that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Start by getting clear on what sets you apart as a music educator mom. What makes your approach to teaching unique? How do you create a nurturing environment for your students while also being present for your own children? What instrument or learning style do you most like to teach? What type of class or lesson really gets you going? These are the stories that will resonate with your audience and draw them closer to you, finding you the "perfect student" for you.
As you explore opportunities outside the traditional confines of public education, keep your audience in mind. What do they need from you? How can you best serve them while staying true to yourself? Whether it's offering private lessons, starting a music workshop, creating a community ensemble, or launching an online course, trust that you have what it takes to make a meaningful impact. You just need to let your people know that you're there for them!
Stepping into the unknown can be daunting, especially when it means leaving behind the security of a steady paycheck (I talk about dealing with inconsistent income here). But remember, narrowing in on who you serve will really clarify things for you as you create streams of income. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and never lose sight of the incredible impact you're making on those you serve.
As you embark on this journey of self-discovery and reinvention, know that you are not alone. The Find Your Ideal Student challenge in the guide section here is available to help you in this, and I am available to work on helping you hone in on this person, cheering you on as you build a personal brand!
The Role of Community: Building a Support System for Music Educator Moms
Being a music educator mom comes with its unique set of challenges. Balancing the demands of a teaching career, nurturing a family, and pursuing personal passions can be overwhelming. Let's explore the indispensable role of community in the life of a music educator mom and how building a strong support system can be a game-changer.
1. Connect with Fellow Music Educator Moms:
Reach out to other music educator moms in your local community or online. Sharing experiences, tips, and challenges with those who understand the intricacies of both music education and motherhood can be immensely comforting. Attend local events, join online forums, and foster connections that go beyond professional networking.
2. Create a Collaborative Learning Environment:
Establish a collaborative learning environment where music educator moms can exchange teaching strategies, resources, and creative ideas. This not only enriches your teaching methods but also creates a space for mutual growth and inspiration and is especially important for freelance teachers!
3. Organize Supportive Playgroups for Children:
Coordinate playgroups or activities where music educator moms can bring their children. This not only provides an opportunity for your kids to interact and play but also allows you to bond with other teacher moms. Building these connections can lead to shared childcare responsibilities, easing the load for everyone involved!
4. Attend Professional Development Workshops Together:
Explore professional development opportunities tailored for music educators. Attend workshops or conferences together to enhance your teaching skills and stay updated on industry trends. Sharing these experiences with other music educator moms can foster a sense of professional camaraderie while also allowing our shared knowledge and experience to bolster one another. We're better together!
5. Establish a Virtual Support Network:
In today's digital age, geographical distances should not hinder connections. Create a virtual support network through social media groups or messaging apps, or join Freelance Music Teacher Moms already set up! This platform can serve as a quick resource for advice, encouragement, and a virtual shoulder to lean on during challenging times.
Navigating the intersection of music education and motherhood is undoubtedly a complex journey. By actively building a community of like-minded individuals, you not only enrich your professional life but also create a valuable support system that understands and celebrates the unique challenges and triumphs of being a music educator mom. Together, we can combine professional and personal life, creating a space for both support and encouragement.
Navigating the Challenges of Inconsistent Income: Financial Tips by a Freelancer for Freelancers
For many individuals, the allure of freelancing lies in the promise of flexibility, autonomy, and pursuing one's passions on their own terms. However, the transition from a traditional 9-to-5 job to freelancing comes with its own set of challenges, chief among them being the uncertainty of inconsistent income. Balancing the demands of work, family, and financial stability can feel like walking a tightrope without a safety net. And if you're like me, this was one of the main concerns I had with making the leap.
Fear not, for there are strategies you can employ to navigate these concerns and thrive in your freelance endeavors. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just dipping your toes into the world of freelancing, these financial tips are tailored to help you weather the storms of inconsistent income. I implemented these upon making the transition, and it was overall very smooth.
- Build an Emergency Fund: Start by establishing a buffer fund to cover essential expenses during lean months. Aim to save enough to cover three to six months' worth of living expenses, providing a safety net to fall back on when work might be more scarce.
- Embrace Budgeting: Take control of your finances by creating a detailed budget that accounts for both fixed and variable expenses. Prioritize essential costs while identifying areas where you can cut back or optimize spending. Base your budget off of a low month so that you are not surprised by the low months and are able to save for the low months during the higher months.
- Diversify Your Income: Explore multiple revenue streams within your freelance niche to mitigate the impact of inconsistent income. Consider offering additional services, products, or leveraging passive income streams to supplement your primary source of revenue (this is where the GOLD of HBR comes into play! Message me the word "HBR" to learn more!)
- Establish Clear Payment Terms: Set clear payment terms and policies with your clients to ensure timely and consistent compensation. Consider implementing upfront deposits, milestone payments, late fees, and/or invoicing reminders to maintain a steady cash flow.
- Plan for Taxes: As a freelancer, you're responsible for managing your own taxes. Set aside a portion of your income each month for taxes, keeping track of deductible business expenses and maximizing tax-saving opportunities. I have been asked about my system for this a lot lately. Would it be helpful for me to put something together for you that's customized for music teachers? Message me if so and let me know.
- Fair Rates: Know your worth and advocate for fair compensation for your services. Research industry and local standards, communicate the value you bring to your clients, and don't be afraid to negotiate rates that reflect your expertise and experience.
- Invest in Continuous Learning: Stay ahead of the curve by investing in professional development and expanding your skill set. Allocate time and resources for courses, workshops, or certifications that enhance your marketability and open doors to new opportunities. I have a few recommendations for this musically and entrepreneurally (yes, I just made up a word, ha!) if you need!
- Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Maintain boundaries between work and personal life to prevent run-down fatigue and maintain overall well-being. Schedule regular breaks, establish a dedicated workspace, and prioritize self-care activities to recharge and stay productive.
For a few more practical how-tos including explanation of some of the above, check out my Self-Employed Music Teacher Budgeting Tips!
Freelancing offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, but it also requires discipline, resilience, and careful financial planning if you're the main source of income for your family. By implementing these financial tips and embracing the ups and downs of freelancing, you can navigate the challenges of inconsistent income with confidence and build a sustainable and fulfilling freelance career. I have, and you can too!
Remember, you're not alone on this journey. Reach out to fellow local freelancers, join online communities, and seek mentorship to share experiences, gain insights, and support one another along the way. Here's to embracing the freelance life and charting your own path to success!
Setting Up a Budget-Friendly Home Music Teaching Studio: Practical Tips and Tricks
Establishing a home music teaching studio can be an exciting and fulfilling venture. Fortunately, with the accessibility of affordable equipment and creative solutions, creating a music teaching space on a budget is very feasible. Whether you're teaching voice, theory, or an instrument, here are some valuable tips and tricks to help you set up your home teaching studio without breaking the bank.
1. Identify Your Primary Teaching Focus
Begin by clearly defining the scope of your music teaching studio. Are you primarily offering instrumental lessons, vocal coaching, or a combination of both? Does the space you are creating need to accommodate any other types of instruction? Are you teaching virtually or in-person or both? Small groups or 1-1? Identifying these factors will guide your equipment choices and help you allocate your budget effectively.
2. Optimize Your Teaching Space
Creating an inviting and conducive teaching environment doesn't necessarily require a dedicated room. Find a quiet and well-lit corner in your home where you can conduct lessons without distractions. Consider factors like seating arrangements, lighting, and the placement of instruments or teaching aids to enhance the overall learning experience. Consider that while sound proofing is not necessary, think about what else is happening around you and where that sound may carry.
3. Invest in Essential Teaching Tools
While high-end equipment can be enticing, focus on acquiring essential tools that align with your teaching goals. A reliable instrument, a comfortable seating arrangement, and music stands (these have held up for me for years) are fundamental. Look for affordable, yet durable options to equip your studio adequately. Consider used options too!
4. Leverage Online Teaching Platforms
Incorporate online teaching platforms and resources into your studio setup. Utilize video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for virtual lessons. The CRM system I utilize is multi-functional and comes with free upgraded Zoom capabilities. These platforms are often free or have budget-friendly options, making them a cost-effective way to expand your reach and offer remote lessons.
5. Seek Affordable Instrument Rentals
For students who are just starting, consider recommending affordable instrument rental options. Many music stores offer rental services for various instruments, allowing students to explore their interests without a significant upfront investment. This approach is particularly beneficial for parents who may be hesitant to purchase expensive instruments for beginners.
6. Create DIY Teaching Aids
Enhance your teaching materials with creative do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions. Craft visual aids, flashcards, or simple teaching props (I have a bunch of my favorites listed here) to make lessons more engaging. There are numerous online templates and tutorials that can guide you in creating effective and budget-friendly teaching resources.
7. Collaborate with Other Educators
Connect with fellow music educators and explore collaborative opportunities. Sharing resources like choral scores, lesson plans, or organizing group workshops can help reduce individual costs. Collaborative efforts not only enhance the learning experience but also foster a sense of community among educators, a win-win!
8. Utilize Free Educational Platforms
Take advantage of free educational resources available online. Platforms like musictheory.net, IMSLP, and YouTube offer a wealth of educational content, including music theory lessons, sheet music, and instructional videos. Incorporating these resources into your teaching materials can supplement your lessons or classes in an engaging way without additional expenses.
9. Flexible Furniture Solutions
When it comes to studio furniture, opt for budget-friendly and versatile options. Folding chairs, portable music stands, and storage solutions that serve multiple purposes can help you maximize your budget and adapt your teaching space to different lesson formats. I have a colleague who even has a giant bean bag in his waiting area for students to enjoy while they wait their turn for their lesson. Feel free to have fun with it!
10. Embrace a Gradual Setup Approach
Building a home music teaching studio on a budget is a step-by-step process. Start with the essentials and gradually expand to fit your needs or your style as your student base grows. This approach allows you to invest wisely in response to the evolving needs of your teaching practice.
Creating a budget-friendly home music teaching studio is a fulfilling endeavor that can positively impact the learning experience for both you and your students. By identifying your teaching focus, optimizing your space, and leveraging affordable resources, you can establish a studio that fosters musical growth and creativity without exceeding your budget constraints.
Playful Learning in Music Education: Unleashing Creativity with Unconventional Tools 🎶
In the world of music education, embracing a bit of playfulness can be the key to unlocking creativity and engagement. Step into my classroom, where the usual suspects of musical instruction take a back seat to some unexpected stars – googly eye rings, rubber chickens, and whirly toys. Let's dive into how these 3 unconventional tools infuse our lessons with excitement and bring out the best in our students:
1. Googly Eyes: The Improvisation Catalyst
When it comes to teaching improvisation, googly eye rings take center stage in my lessons and rehearsals. Improvisation can be intimidating, but these wiggly-eyed companions make it feel like a game. Students wear the googly eyes and take turns improvising, adding a lighthearted element to the process. It's amazing how a touch of whimsy can boost confidence and creativity in musical expression, allowing students to feel safe "behind" a puppet or guise of sorts as they try something more vulnerable like creating new tunes with their voice.
2. Rubber Chickens: Shaping Vowels for Beautiful Harmony
Creating a harmonious choral sound involves mastering vowel shapes. Enter the rubber chicken, our surprising ally in this endeavor. As students sing higher notes, we talk about vowel shapes and use our rubber chicken (affectionately named Drumstick by my middle schoolers!) as a visual reminder. Sometimes he participates in games as well... the sky is the limit!
3. Whirly Toys: Elevating Range and Tone Dynamics
Whirly helicopter toys take vocal exercises to a whole new level, literally! As students take turns during warm-ups making the whirly toy go high into the air, they follow it with their voice in a glissando. This helps students explore their vocal range and tone in a playful way so they aren't thinking about how high they are going, or shouting when they go higher. The visual element keeps them engaged!
Play in Learning: Where Hard Work is a Form of Play
Beyond the specific lessons, these unconventional tools contribute to an environment where play is embraced as a powerful learning tool. In our musical journey, hard work becomes play and play helps us achieve hard work. Each challenge transforms into an opportunity for discovery and growth. The unexpected elements brought by these tools encourage students to explore, take risks, and find joy in the process of making music.
What creative methods do you use to make music lessons engaging and fun for your students?
The Struggles of Music Teachers: Unveiling the Urgency for Change
In the education world, music teachers find themselves facing urgent challenges that are pushing them to the brink. Recent sobering statistics reveal a concerning trend, shedding light on the fact that a significant number of music educators are seriously contemplating leaving the profession.
1. Overwhelmed and Underprepared:
The statistics indicate that a mere 19.8% of music teachers feel moderately well-prepared or very prepared for their job. This suggests a glaring gap in the training and support provided to these educators. Music is a complex art, and teachers require comprehensive preparation to navigate the intricacies of imparting musical knowledge pedagogically effectively.
2. Lack of Recognition and Value:
A staggering 44.7% of music teachers express feeling undervalued, with some stating that they are only perceived as a preparation time for other teachers. This lack of recognition not only undermines the dedication of these educators but also contributes to a demoralizing work environment. Appreciation and acknowledgment are essential elements in fostering a positive and thriving teaching community.
3. Unmanageable Workloads:
The workload of music teachers is revealed in the statistic that 41% of them teach between 301 to 500 students, and some teach as many as 700 students! Such a large number of students per teacher is undoubtedly overwhelming and can compromise the quality of education provided. It also raises questions about the feasibility of creating meaningful connections with each student, hindering the holistic development of aspiring musicians.
4. The Ominous Cloud of Burnout:
The cumulative effect of these challenges is reflected in the alarming statistic that 45.5% of music teachers have contemplated leaving the profession. The specter of burnout (or what some would call compassion fatigue) looms large over these educators, driven by a combination of inadequate preparation, lack of recognition, and unmanageable workloads on top of increased student needs and demands placed on teachers outside of their necessary duties.
The Call for Change:
In the face of these statistics, it is imperative for educational institutions, policymakers, and the community at large to heed the call for change. Investing in comprehensive training programs for music educators, fostering a culture of appreciation, and addressing unmanageable workloads are essential steps in ensuring the sustainability of the music education profession.
While as a society, we must recognize the invaluable role that music teachers play in shaping the next generation of musicians and nurturing a love for the arts, we do not see society taking any actual steps in a positive direction to address these issues, which means that music teachers need to make some potentially tough decisions.
Empowering Music Educators: A Call to Action
As we delve into the challenges music teachers face, it's crucial to recognize the resilience and potential within our dedicated community. While systemic changes are necessary and unlikely, there's also this opportunity for music educators to take charge of their own destinies, especially in a world where immediate societal shifts look to be lacking.
Being self-employed allows music teachers to play to their own strengths, avoid the downsides to public education, and specialize in niche areas, catering to specific interests or skill levels. Whether it's music theory, instrument-specific instruction, community ensembles, or composition, educators can carve out a unique space for themselves, attracting students seeking specialized expertise. This is a large part of what I do through my streamlined method as I work 1-1 with teachers to customize their business and create an exit strategy, much like I did for myself. This is key because it emphasizes the unique approach each teacher brings to their craft.
In our ever-changing world, continuous learning is key. Music educators can enhance their skills and stay relevant by exploring new techniques, staying updated on industry trends, and incorporating innovative teaching methods. Music teachers would also do well to take a business course, particularly one that is updated continually with the changing times and trends (I have a great one I can recommend – ask for more info!). This commitment to growth not only benefits educators but also enriches the learning experience for their students.
The path to freelance success for music teachers is a multifaceted journey that involves personal empowerment, collaboration, specialization, and a commitment to continuous learning while implementing strategies that work for building a business in our 21st century world. By seizing the opportunities offered by the digital era and actively participating in professional development, music educators can not only find fulfillment in their careers but also contribute to the transformation of the music education landscape for generations to come without dealing with the burnout of the system. It's time for music teachers to embrace their potential, both as independent professionals and as catalysts for positive change in the world of education!
