Thus goes the traditional first item on a kindergarten report card (one suspects that should be on EVERY report card, frankly). It’s really nothing new. We humans figured out that collaboration was a valuable still when we were still living in caves.
As educators, we have a particular reason to work collaboratively, to wit: the good of our students. In her article, “Beyond the ‘Bass-ics’ in Junior High/Middle School Music Programs” (North Central Melisma, Vol.27, No.3). Sarah Marohl discusses the benefits that arose when faculty from the band, orchestra, and choral areas worked together to raise the level of musicianship among all students.
Observing other teachers at work and exposing my students to new techniques and a different perspective have been incredibly beneficial. No longer does our music department operate in separate band, choir and orchestra circles. We operate as a more complete and integrated unit. Who benefits? Our students.
“Beyond the Bass-ics” has benefited my choral program in a number of unexpected ways. I am a better teacher for having spent time watching others teach; I am a better communicator and enjoy co-teaching within this environment. “Beyond the Bass-ics” has also helped my students achieve higher levels when working with the National Standards.
My students, some of whom never seemed to really care about rhythm in the old days, are now tapping their toes as we rehearse, counting during interludes and singing with much greater rhythmic precision. Other directors have noticed a marked increase in note and rhythm recognition, as well as a better feeling of community within our department.
(For additional articles on a dazzling array of choral topics, visit ChorTeach.)
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.