Alina Taylor

I believe that every individual has the ability to learn to play a musical instrument. No matter what age, background, or previous experiences in music, every person can learn to be a musician. Music is innate, as it is has been rediscovered in every culture and across each continent around the world, for thousands of years.

Moving forward, it is no secret that students acquire knowledge at different rates and through multiple learning styles. My goal during my first few years as a novice teacher is to experiment with various teaching techniques in order to increase success among my students. Some of these methods, which I have already put into practice in my orchestra classes, include found sounds, improvisation, singing, and movement activities. By incorporating activities from other fine arts disciplines such as general music, choir, and dance, my students will be able to more easily master their musical ability. For example, during a recent teaching experience of mine, I instructed my students to each sing their own parts. At first, the students were hesitant to sing, but once they proceeded, they began smiling and laughing, and their energy was overwhelmingly radiant. I often use this technique with my students, not only to allow them to have fun and relax, but to let them discover melodic contours and phrasing. This exercise overall, improves their perception of musicality. Once students explore and discover their own idea of musicality, they will be eager to challenge themselves with more advanced instrumental techniques, and higher level performances. After the early stages of their education in music, they will begin to explore the countless ways in which music can better their lives.

Furthermore, there are many societal, emotional, and cognitive benefits of music education. More specifically, these benefits can help the individual, but also the entire group. A few positive cognitive advantages are that music increases memory capacity, strengthens attention span, improves hand-eye coordination, exercises mathematical ability, and develops aural skills. In the category of intrapersonal characteristics, music encourages determination, drive for achievement, and discipline.  It relieves stress, and fosters self-expression through creativity. Some interpersonal benefits include teamwork, social skills, and exposure to cultural history. In turn, music opens up an entirely different world of creative exploration and opportunities for unique experience. Ultimately, the most important benefit of music is that it promotes a sense of humanity through emotional connection, tolerance, and happiness.

Music has the power to bring people together - including those from different cultural, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds. In my future music ensembles, I will give children the opportunity to further their musical ability, make lifelong connections with other individuals, and nourish their souls through the power of music.