It is my firm belief that continual growth is essential in becoming a better instructor as well as a well rounded person. As an instructor, I believe in helping my students to become life-long-learners by establishing tools of trade that will help them along their journey of education. It is my desire to reflect that which I teach. I have always said, what is good for the goose is good for the gander. With that, I strive to become a better musician, instructor, and mentor everyday of my life through research, conferences, and work experience.
One chapter in my professional growth plan recently came to a place of completion. This chapter was entitled: Bachelor of Arts in Music Education a.k.a. college. During my time as an undergraduate student I was able to attend the Indiana Music Educator’s Convention state conferences as well as the American Choral Director’s Association conventions where I was able to learn more about teaching music in the world that we live today. I also was able to learn more about how technology is being incorporated into the world of music as we know it today.
My future plans for growth include continued research in the area of voice, piano, organ, saxophone, guitar, and other instruments as I find the time. Continued attendance to conventions held by the above organizations will also be an integral part of my continued growth as a professional. Part of my journey as an educator has included the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors in the field of music education. The partnership, friendship, and mentorship by those instructors will always and forever be a part of my learning process and growth as an educator.
Memberships in both The National Association for Music Educators and The American Choral Director’s Association are important aspects of this professional growth plan. Aside from attending conferences held by these organizations, I glean from the many articles that are published through their monthly and quarterly journals. The articles that are found in these journals are insightful, educational, and packed full of opportunities for instructors to become the best at what they do. A continued strong membership with such organizations and others will always be at the forefront of my professional growth plan.
