Today I realized - I might actually be good at teaching musical instruments. My 3rd Graders just started learning the recorder. They have a classroom set, so they cannot take them home to practice, therefore I give them about 5 minutes during class to practice on their own. They are taking this very seriously, and in the end, they sound GREAT! I am not teaching the standard "B-A-G" "Hot Cross Buns" method, instead I am focusing on teaching the more difficult notes first. Starting with "A", "C", and then "D". They will learn "B" and "G" later. I am also working on good playing technique so their instrument doesn't squeak. These kids are super talented and have learned to fix their mistakes on their own. I am really impressed.
This brings me back to when I was teaching 6th Grade Band a few years ago. When I left that job, the replacing teacher sat in and observed my last few classes. Her response: "This is the best 6th Grade band I have ever heard. They have great tone and a wonderful sense of musicianship." What a compliment. Who knew? Even though I am not very good at playing an instrument, I may not be so bad at actually teaching them.
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