The Importance of Building Relationships in Music Education

The Importance of Building Relationships in Music Education
By Craig Snyder
Business is about relationships is an often cited quote, and is never more true than in the field
of education, particularly music education. The music teachers ability to create, nurture, and
sustain personal connections to people in a variety of situations will have a strong influence on
that teachers success, the success of the program, and most importantly, the success of the
students. The following is an exploration of the different relationship situations that a music
educator may find themselves in, and some remarks on the unique and important nature of
each.
Relationships with Students

We should begin with the most important of all connections. Although it may seem that this
needs no mention, there is a disappointing amount of educators that do not care to or do not
enjoy working with students. The ability to understand the needs and motivations of your
students at whatever level you teach, and enjoy that connection, will impact your success and
fulfillment in your career more than any other relationship.
Relationships with Parents

Parents are the greatest supporters of the music teacher, until they arent. Carefully build a
team-based relationship with parents by constantly showing you are there to help their kids be
successful. They will be your concert attendees, they will pay for private lessons and upgraded
instruments, and they will be there to help fund raise and chaperone. Never forget to tell them
how great their kids are and how much you appreciate them, and they will always be there to
support you.
Relationships with Colleagues

A cardinal sin of the music teacher is to isolate themselves in their rooms, surround themselves
with their students, and forget they are part of a culture of a building. As backwards as it may
seem to think this way, the following is true: your students will come and go, but your colleagues
on the faculty will be there as long as you are. Eat lunch in the faculty room occasionally if not
regularly. Thank the classroom teachers for being flexible when you must borrow their students
for a trip, rehearsal, or performance. And go to happy hour!
Relationships with Administrators

Contrary to popular belief, most principals are not out to cut the music department. They have
big and difficult decisions to make, and have to think big picture. You are not always going to
get what you want. Let your administration know that you appreciate them, and that you know
they will do their best to help you meet your needs. Bring them solutions to problems, dont lay
problems at their feet. And bring them data! They will support you when you make it possible.
Relationships with Other Music Professionals

There are numerous people out there whom you can partner with. Begin by establishing a close
contact with your local music store. Get to know the owner and the repair technician by name.
Local colleges with music departments have as their mission outreach into the local schools.
Ask a director or professor to clinic your group or provide professional development to the
teachers in your district. Finally, seek out professional musicians who live in the area and find
out if they teach private lessons. Friend all of these people on social media and come up with a
system of mutual support - a rising tide floats all boats!
Relationships with the Community

As we close our observations, let us remember we are educating an entire community. If your
community supports music education and believes in what you do, you will not have to worry
about your school district going after your job. They are your base. They will come to the football
games and parades. They will not understand your field show, but will love if you play a Sousa
march. Make sure you are taking care of your base by performing - often - in the community.
Take care of the business of relationships and you can focus on your most important business:
the success of your students.

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The Importance of Building Relationships in Music Education

Relationships with Students

Relationships with Parents

Relationships with Colleagues

Relationships with Administrators

Relationships with Other Music Professionals

Relationships with the Community

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