Independent Musicianship at Work

I love that the band room is a safe gathering place for a lot of kids after school. Often, students will leave their 6th hour class only to head down to the E-Wing and into the band room. Whether it's to pick up a book they left in their locker, meet up with a ride home, hang out with some friends, or maybe even get in a little practice on large instruments, I appreciate that of all the places they could go, they come here. Yesterday was a typical day after school, with a lot of marching band members choosing to spend time in the band room before our afternoon pre-game rehearsal.

I was sitting in my office when I heard the friendly, inclusive invitation.

"Anyone want to work on Munster's with us?"

"Yeah!"

"Sure."

"Ok, now let's work on dynamics!"

"This time, start at the sign and take the coda."

...And it kept growing until we had to get outside for rehearsal. As one of my favorite authors, Brene Brown, confirms: We are hardwired for connection. Music just happens to be a fantastic catalyst. A community with a common goal starting from one friendly gesture. I'm reminded of a TED talk video I frequently reference at our leadership meetings and how it only takes "one lone nut" to start a movement.

A simple invitation becomes a testament of ownership. A group of students without titles became true leaders of their own musicianship. They could've ignored the invite and kept playing on their phones, chatting with friends, working on homework. But they didn't-- They got up, got their instruments, and started playing together. Of all the ways they could've spent their time and energy, they *chose* to invest into their music, their show, and each other.

Independent musicianship at work. #ThisIsWhyITeach

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Notes from the Cougar Band Room

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