Keep Going, Keep Growing, Keep Singing or Playing
Teaching choir and band is a journey that blends artistry, discipline, and heart. Every rehearsal, performance, and quiet moment of practice contributes to the growth of our students—not just as musicians, but as individuals. Once the class or rehearsal is complete, I recite the same statement each day: “Keep Going, Keep Growing, Keep Singing, Thank You Choir!
As educators, our goal is to inspire, guide, and create a space where music is more than notes on a page. It’s a life skill to take with you beyond the classroom.
Whether you’re directing a group of beginners or a seasoned ensemble, these three principles can help keep your teaching both productive and inspiring.
1. Keep Going!
Momentum is powerful in our ensembles. Rehearsals aren’t just about perfecting today’s piece—they’re about building tomorrow’s progress. Some days, your ensemble will be in perfect harmony; other days, it may feel like every measure is uphill. The key is to keep moving forward.
Consistency matters more than perfection. Even on challenging days, pushing through fosters resilience and shows students that progress comes from persistence. Keep the rehearsal flow moving, address challenges without getting stuck, and celebrate small wins along the way.
2. Keep Growing!
Both students and directors should always be learners. Music is a field that thrives on curiosity and exploration. Try introducing new repertoire, teaching a fresh technique, or bringing in guest clinicians. Encourage students to set personal goals—maybe it’s improving tone quality, mastering sight-reading, or trying a different style of music.
As an educator, growth also means refining your teaching methods. Reflect on what works and what doesn’t, stay connected with professional networks, and seek out workshops or conferences. The more you grow, the more your students will follow your example.
3. Keep Singing or Playing!
At the heart of it all, music is meant to be made. It’s easy to get lost in theory, warm-ups, or logistics, but students should leave every rehearsal feeling like they made music together. Make time for performance moments, even in the middle of learning.
Remind your ensemble that music is not just a skill—it’s an expression. Whether their voices fill the room or their instruments ring with energy, those moments of shared sound are what keep the passion alive.
Looking Ahead for this year…
A productive year in choir or band is not about never hitting a wrong note—it’s about continually moving forward, seeking growth, and keeping the joy of music alive. As we step into this school year, let’s commit to pressing on through challenges, expanding our horizons, and never losing sight of why we do this: to make music that matters.
Here’s to a year filled with determination, growth, and harmony—both in music and in spirit.
Keep Going, Keep Growing, Keep Singing or Playing, Thank you!
Productive Teaching in Choir & Band Keep Going • Keep Growing • Keep Singing or Playing
Every rehearsal matters. Some days we soar, other days we climb—but each step moves us forward. Keep Going through the challenges and celebrate small victories.
Keep Growing by trying new techniques, exploring fresh repertoire, and inspiring your students to reach beyond their comfort zones. Growth isn’t just for them—it’s for us as educators too.
And most importantly—Keep Singing or Playing. Never let the joy of making music be buried under the to-do list. Every rehearsal should leave hearts full and music ringing in the air.
Here’s to a year of progress, passion, and harmony—both in music and in life.