We definitely did not earn a music education degree because it was “fun” – first-year theory class weeded out that crew. Certainly “easy” is not a word any successful choral conductor would use to describe their day. So, how about that paycheck? Nope, no one gets rich on a choral podium.
It seems that love of the art and love of the people with whom we work are at the top of that list for most of us.
Jeff Anderson, in his article, “Keeping the Main Thing, the Main Thing” (Kansas ACDA Choral Range, Vol.29, No.1), focuses on the importance of our work with the human beings in our care.
“The most notable recollections students reported to me were statements I made in rehearsal or to individuals personally. More often than not, I could not recall making any of the remarks attributed to me. Yet when pressed, some students went on to say that these comments had a life-changing impact on them. Gulp! Admittedly, “life changing” was exceptional; however, I began paying more attention to these obscure but meaningful teacher/student encounters. Be aware: never underestimate the scope of a teacher’s influence on his/her students.”
As you step in front of the choir as the new semester begins, remember that those singers are a big part of the reason we do what we do.
(To access the full article, simply click the highlighted title. For additional articles on a dazzling array of choral topics, visit ChorTeach.)
Sig Rosen says