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Date Posted: 05:21:30 03/25/04 Thu
Author: Derek Meilaender
Subject: Re: performing vs. teaching
In reply to: John Padley 's message, "performing vs. teaching" on 17:52:06 03/23/04 Tue

Every summer I have an opportunity to work in a summer band program, and every summer we start little fith graders on their instruments. It's a lot of fun to teach a beginning student. Occasionally I might pull out my saxophone and play a scale or something for them. Their eyes bulge out of their head, their faces light up, and their smile spans their entire face - "WOW!!" The point is, these kids are struggling with playing a middle c on the staff, and whenever they here us demonstrate anything they get all excited. They learn from our examples. Every once in a while, I get to teach a student one on one. Either they haven't caught up with the rest of the students because they were gone on vacation for a couple of days, or they just need a little extra push (sometimes a shove). Because I play the saxophone adequately, I can help these beginners in the simplest ways. I know how to hold my mouth, how to tongue, how to finger, etc, through my (extensive) experiences (ha). If you can do it yourself, you're more apt to spot mistakes in other students. That's why I believe good teachers must be able to play their instrument well. I can teach beginners how to play the saxophone because I've been through it all. On the grander scale of things, teachers can teach students of all ages because they've been through so much more. Experience makes a lot of difference in this business - performing and teaching go hand in hand.

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Replies:

[> Re: performing vs. teaching -- Steve Tharp, 10:02:06 03/27/04 Sat [1]

John your question is a very good one. In my own experience throughout college and with the little experience I ahve outside of it i have come to this conclusion. One must know the "ins and outs" of the instruments. Being able to demonstrate what you want is very important especiall at the elementary and early junior high level. It is with knowing your instrument, communicating effectively, and your passion for the music that will make you a good teacher. Being a good performer as a teacher is an asset, but is not, in my opinion a necessity in teaching. Always strive to be a great performer because your students deserve the best possible education and experiences. Do not be fooled though. Alot of times I hear in college, "well I am a music education major so i don't need to perform well." WRONG! You may bot be the best but performing ot the best of your ability is key. You expect the same from your students. I hope that helps some.


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