Criticism is really a chance to grow :)

So, one of my fellow teachers came up to me last week and informed me that one of my band parents had told her that her son was not enjoying band. My fellow teacher wanted to warn me so that I was prepared. Hearing this through another teacher really hurt, but instead of dwelling on it I decided to be proactive. After hearing this comment, I made a much more concerted effort to pay attention and compliment EVERY student in the class and I would make sure that we played A LOT in class. My class is small but incredibly talkative and for the past months it has been almost half of the class time that I constantly am trying to get preteens to stop chatting. I have realized that this talkativeness was in part caused by my lack of clear plans and directions for the class. It just amazes me how being proactive in my lessons can make a night and day difference

So, because of this criticism, I am now focused on making sure my students feel like they are in a band and we have really begun to make music! My band classes on Thursday were SO productive and the kids wanted to keep playing even though class was over and they were telling me how much they loved one of our songs! It made me so so happy! They are playing Do-Re-Mi (no, their teacher is not biased towards musicals.... well maybe ;) :) ) and Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree (this was chosen so that my drummer would have a much more difficult and enjoyable piece to play). 

So, yep, I know feel like a band director and I am slowly becoming excited for the Christmas Program. :) Anxiety is definitely the dominant feeling, but excitement is beginning to grow. :) Slowly but surely! 

Please keep my students and I in your prayers as we prepare for this!! Thank you and God bless! :)