Musical Life History

My name is Ella Moss, and I am an aspiring music educator from Fort Wayne, Indiana. I

began learning to play the viola in 6th grade. It was then that I discovered my passion for music

and performing. I have since learned other instruments as well, including clarinet, oboe, bass,

and mellophone. I participated in band, orchestra, and jazz band in middle and high school, as

well as marching in my high school marching band all four years. Being involved in multiple

ensembles with multiple instruments has allowed me to develop my skills as a musician, to meet

wonderful people, and to fully realize my desire to be a music educator.

Before I was taught music in school, I was surrounded by it at home. My father teaches

percussion, and I would often go to concerts or marching band competitions with him. He taught

my older sister and me the basics of piano, and always encouraged us in all pursuits. He has been

a steady support all these years, encouraging my growth as a musician and a person. My sister’s

involvement in various ensembles throughout the years was a huge inspiration for me. The

support and encouragement of my family in my journey with music has inspired me to work for

what I want.

My teachers strongly influenced my decision to go into teaching. I first considered

teaching as a career when I was in the 5th grade. My teacher at the time was incredibly

supportive, giving me opportunities to help my classmates, as well as go into other classrooms.

My middle school director not only taught me how to play viola and clarinet, but she also taught

the value of having a great teacher. Middle school is a crucial time in everyone's life and having

a caring teacher during that time is invaluable. My teacher during those years encouraged me as

a musician and as a person, showing me how powerful a teacher could be.

 In seventh grade, I decided I wanted to teach music. I had realized how important music

was to me, and I wanted to share it with others. I have found no greater joy than that of making

music, whether with others or by myself. I have found great satisfaction in spending months

working on a piece, finally getting to perform it, and knowing we performed it well. My life

without music would be incredibly different and extremely bleak. Making music with others is a

means of connecting and building relationships, and this is something that I want to share with

others.

I found joy in teaching and helping others learn early in school. Watching and helping

others grasp material previously unknown to them is rewarding, but also, I aspire to be a positive

influence in students’ lives, someone they can go to for help without judgement. I want to build a

classroom where everyone feels safe, accepted, and cared for. I passionately believe that a good

teacher can make all the difference for one's school experience, and I want to be a good teacher,

for all the many kids that need it.

While I have only been involved in music for a small portion of my life, I can say with

absolute certainty that I want to spend the rest of teaching, sharing the gifts and joys of music

with others.