I decided I wanted to help make the arts more accessible for all children, regardless of demographic and up-bringing. This is what led me to my degree in education. I wanted to make more room in the world for amateur music and I know do that through the school system.
I believe that you don’t have to be a great (or even good) musician to benefit from playing an instrument. I often have adult clients turn away from music because in their mind it’s a waste of time if they can’t get good enough to make money from it. Why is it that we let children have hobbies but adults can’t unless it’s a “side hustle”?
There are many reasons for this. Our society constantly tells us that “time is money” which grows internal pressure to be efficient and economical. Perfectionism also pays a huge part in this. We only see a small part of others and it’s usually the best parts, this leads to feelings of being less-than when we try anything new. I believe our school system is where we can support students to be life-long learners by teaching them how to overcome the perfectionist and capitalistic mindset that so often hinders growth.
My goal is to increase knowledge around the benefits of being an amateur musician. To be an amateur musician is someone who does not make their living from being a musician. The way I want to do this is through showing students the positive affects of music first hand. To have them experience the mood changing and regulating effects that music can have. My hope is that some students will learn how to use music to better their quality of life.