Music teachers have the best jobs in schools. The study of music can create connections that make all learning more meaningful and fun. That is an incredible opportunity and a critical responsibility for music teachers. They must be the best of the best.

A new book published by MENC: The National Association for Music Education and Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., Enhancing the Professional Practice of Music Teachers: 101 Tips that Principals Want Music Teachers to Know and Do, is designed to assist music teachers (whether preservice or 20-year veterans) to become the best they can be.

101 Tips is divided into 6 different categories. Part 1, Tips That Establish Effective Practice with Students, includes 11 tips. Among those tips are:

• Focus on Children – Make sure that every decision made and each musical selection that is performed, studied, or created is in the best interest of all students.
• Not Everyone Wants to Be a Music Major – There are many multi-talented students in high school music programs. Maintain a proper perspective when it comes time to help them choose a college and a career. Music teachers’ passion can sometimes blind them to what is best for others.
• Teach Showmanship – Life is a stage and successful people learn how to take command. Learning to become a performer with high levels of showmanship skills is a distinct advantage of studying music.
• Expose Students to All Genres of Music – A narrow curriculum excludes too much of what students need to learn.
• Encourage Solo and Ensemble Participation – Participation in solo and ensemble competitions and festivals is an effective learning experience that helps middle school and high school students develop their musical skills and confidence.

For complete tips and details, Enhancing the Professional Practice of Music Teachers: 101 Tips that Principals Want Music Teachers to Know and Do is available with a 25% discount to MENC members from Rowman & Littlefield Education.

Common Sense Tips, Part 2

Author Paul Young, a graduate of the Ohio University School of Music, is a former music teacher and elementary school principal. He currently is the Executive Director of the West After School Center in Lancaster, Ohio, and an adjunct professor of music at Ohio University-Lancaster.

—Becky Spray, November 18, 2009 ©MENC: The National Association for Music Education