Big music programs often get the most attention. We certainly have profiled many in our pages. For every school with massive ensembles and four assistant directors, there are many more places with a dedicated solo director taking care of everything. With the invaluable help of Contributing Editor Becky Rodgers Warren, we invited several veterans of small schools to share what they have learned. Steven Browne who teaches in a high school of 400 students in Nashville, Illinois, shared some inspiring reflections about the small lessons that have stayed with him. These tips apply to just about any music program and are excerpted here. You can read the full article here.
It’s possible to have a well-rounded program at any size school. It’s also easy to look at a bigger school and think they have it easier. Running a good program is going to be difficult in any size school. If the school and program are a good fit for you, spend the time to develop it into something that makes you proud. This will never be easy but will always be worth it.
Show people that you are having fun. The job is stressful, difficult, and sometimes it is impossible for a director not to show it. Don’t be afraid to also show how much fun you are having. Laugh with your kids, it is therapeutic.
Play music with students in the classroom and in public. It is the first reason we fell in love with what we do. Don’t be afraid to show the emotion of our art – being human is being relatable. Make a fool out of yourself, dance while everyone is watching, sing when no one wants to listen, tell bad jokes for the 100th time during the hour. It’s one thing to say you are doing fun things with your students and program. It’s completely different when you show them how fun music is.
Support your students in everything they do. Music isn’t the only important thing to them nor should it be. Share your non-musical interests with them. They may not say it’s cool but will probably think it is anyway.
My students know that I’m a dreamer. They also know I have failed more than I’ve succeeded. I share both failures and accomplishments with them. I graduated from the same program where I now teach. I think it is essential for students to know that great things come from hard work, dedication, and consistency. If you ask students for my catchphrase is they will tell you it is “Dream Big.” Achievements don’t come from towns, schools, or programs, they come from people, and anyone can dream.
Steven Browne has taught the last 18 years of his 22-year teaching career at Nashville Community High School. During his career, he has always taught both instrumental and vocal music. He is a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and earned a Masters in Music Education from the University of Florida.
