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Music Education Philosophy Statement

“I often think in music; I live my daydreams in music; and I see my life in terms of music.”
- Albert Einstein

Music education has the potential to embody everything within society, as well as create

musical cultures within classrooms and ensembles. Musical cultures are known to be grown,

shaped, and created by those who participate in these processes with others. People will then

interpret these shared musical cultures, learn their importance, recognize symbolic references,

and integrate them in their own life experiences. Musical cultures in turn impact their

communities and influence participants to better express themselves, both as musicians and

people, in the world around them. The power of shared musical cultures and their impact on both

learners and communities is why I seek to fulfill my goals and aspirations of becoming an

impactful music educator.

One of the ways I plan to fulfill my goals and aspirations is through the classroom

environment, an important factor for a student’s musical learning experience. It is critical that

students feel encouraged and comfortable while partaking in musical lessons and activities inside

the classroom. Optimizing a learning environment for students by encouraging them to challenge

themselves can illuminate their dedication to music, whether through a new style of music to

sing, a new language, or even as simple as listening to a new genre. Encouraging students to

branch out of their comfort zone can help facilitate new perspectives and spark new passions that

may have gone undiscovered.

Another way I plan to fulfill my goals and aspirations is the acknowledgment of

discovering individuality. Everyone experiences music differently, which can spark realizations

of personal and musical identity. Students use music to express themselves, develop life skills,

find their voice, and appreciate music as a whole. Motivation and engagement for students are
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crucial within their musical environment. Integrating these important qualities through

participatory and performance experiences as well as both formal and informal learning will

better enhance a student’s individuality.

Teaching students and inspiring them to become better individuals has been something

I’ve wanted to do ever since I can remember. Being a teacher is more than the mandated

curriculum or the quota marks we have to hit with students; it’s being a role model to inspire the

generations that come after us. It is also important to be there for students in times of need. When

a student experiences something that upsets them whether it’s a feeling of loss or grief, it is our

job to not only be there for them but to care for and sympathize with them.

With this being said, allowing students to have as many opportunities within music can

better enhance a student’s appreciation towards music. Music education is a vessel that can

combine a passion for music with a passion for lifelong learning. It aligns with everything I want

in a career and allows me to impact so many lives more than my own. The teachers I had

growing up both in music education and other areas are the reason why I am here before you

today. I feel fortunate and grateful for the life-changing influences of important music educators

throughout my academic trajectory. ‘Paying it forward’ and striving to continue in those

footsteps will be the motor of living what I hope will be an impactful career as a music educator.