“MUSIC IS A HOME FOR THOSE WHO WANT THE KEY”

Music in and out of my classroom should be a place of safety where students can make a conscious effort to make musical decisions, and where they can then apply what they learn in class to the real-world interactions they will have in the future. In addition, any and all musical ensembles should be a safe environment where students can make mistakes and learn from them. We can’t get everything right; people make mistakes, that is why we go to school. I fully believe that music is a procedural, hands-on experience. Lecturing, while useful in certain areas of teaching, can be one of the most difficult ways to teach instrumentalization. For most, the best way to learn is by doing and imposing the usage of declarative knowledge. While every student is different and requires a particular form of instruction to learn, it is up to the teacher to accommodate and adapt to all students in their classroom so that everyone has a fair shot at succeeding to the best of their ability and beyond. To that same degree, music should be a stepping-stone for students to grow as individuals so that we can make better people for a better tomorrow. It is dependent on the student to take these practices and apply them outside of the classroom in their own ways so that they can do their own personal best. when it comes to music and also daily life.

Music should be a right for all regardless of gender identity, race, religious background, sexuality, political views, etc. In my classroom, I have zero tolerance for any form of hate against anyone. That includes hate towards others and towards oneself. Music is a safe space for all those who choose to participate in the art of music. So they can feel the freedom to express themselves however they choose. Without the feeling of fear of judgment and discrimination from others. As a woman of color myself, these guidelines must be followed so that we can have the best experience possible as musicians and as human beings enjoying art together. Unfortunately, there are too many places on this planet that exude hatred and I do not allow my classroom to be one of them. I make it one of my top priorities to be sure that every single one of my students is receiving the best music education they can in my classroom. I do not want to have any external forces combating that. Having to handle issues in any negative context takes away from not only the student's education, but also from rehearsal time, and can become mentally and physically taxing on both the teacher and the students involved. The best way to combat that is by nipping it in the bud right away. Overall, judging someone based on looks, beliefs, sexuality, etc. violates human rights, creates social injustice, and has negative psychological effects. We must work towards a society that values and celebrates diversity, and where all people are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their differences.