Students are motivated by their own desire to learn and through the impact of an effective teacher. Here are a few tips to help reach out and encourage your students.

1. Make the students feel it is their band, choir, or orchestra. Explain to the group that each individual really does make a difference.
2. Compliment often. Be sure the compliments are sincere and deserved.
3. Cover the hands of the music room clock with a sign that says “Time to Concentrate.”
4. Create rewards such as varsity letters, and most improved in each section.
5. Post articles on the bulletin board of students’ achievements in other areas.
6. Treat students as people and musicians--don’t call them kids.
7. Recognize special music achievements with a drum roll and an announcement.
8. Get publicity for students' efforts.
9. Play tapes of successful performances several times.
10. Elect officers and a council, and give them some responsibility by starting a Tri-M chapter.
     

This article has been adapted from “Survival Techniques for the Band Director” by MENC member Dennis Granlie from Great Falls, MT.

--Shauna Leavitt, September 10, 2008, © MENC: The National Association for Music Education