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This month’s MSFQ tips come from Cheryl Floyd, director of bands, retired, Hill Country.
Welcome to back to school across the country! I’m going to share tips this time regarding middle school music programs!
Recruitment
While most of our MS directors have already screened students for instrument assignments, perhaps some do that at the very start of school. If so, take a moment to assess your instrumentation and engage older students who play those much-needed instruments to perform for your 4/5/6 grade classes.
Retention
One of the best ways to retain your students is to give them opportunities for public performance. Have your best players put together small groups to perform for your beginning students. Older students could perform the school song, fight song, and other pep tunes. Include band, choir, and orchestra students to build your musical community. Consider using the First Performance National Day of Celebration Toolkit with for your beginners! This is an outstanding program offered through the Music Achievement Council.
Success
Don’t forget to set aside time for you! Freddie Martin once told me to open my calendar and write “SOMETHING” on one weekend every month. That way, when someone asks you to do “something” on that weekend, you already have “something” on your calendar!!!
Take the time to make certain all your dates are on the school calendar and that you have tried to avoid major conflicts w/other student groups!
