Creativity in music

It's taken me a long time to finally realize how important creativity is to teaching music.  I teach at the high school level and for the longest time, my focus was on learning pieces of music for concerts and festivals.  This seemed to satisfy me, the school community and students.  While this method or style of delivery is important and it works well, I am not convinced it is the best approach to experiencing and learning music.

I try to include creativity episodes in every music class.  I invite students to think and to stretch their imagination.  I think it is fun and enjoyable, even though it can be frustrating and challenging.  Some students are willing to try new things and explore different ways to making music.  Other students appear to be uncomfortable and resist the work.

I think it's important for the teacher to be comfortable with creative projects, so that he / she can assist the students with the journey, providing the useful tips and guidance.  I have been enjoying my own work at developing my skills with improvisation and this has inspired me to share this joy a d enthusiasm with my students.  I can demonstrate ideas and show connections.  A few years ago, I was not ready for this and simply relied on what worked for me for years.  I believe my teaching ability improved when I began to take risks and felt that I was successful.  I am happy with this method and style because it keeps me learning and developing and also creates an interesting education for my students.

How?

Well, I tend to stretch simple exercises, invite students to improvise and experiment, I encourage active listening, and I expect students to compose music as well using paper and pencil.

I look forward to continued success with creativity in music!

Ontario music educators association (OMEA)

I remember attending the first conference way back in 1983.  I was a student at U of T and professor David Elliot invited many of us to attend as volunteers, to assist with all sorts of duties as Toronto was the host city.  I remember it being an amazing learning experience because while we were very busy helping to make all the various sessions run smoothly, we also were given the opportunity to attend these sessions presented.
Last November I attended the annual conference and it was held in Niagara Falls.  I really enjoyed the conference.  The sessions presented were very useful and it was nice to gather with old friends Nd even former students who are now full time teachers.  I do not usually attend the conference when it is held in Toronto.  I would much rather get away.  When the conference was held in Hunstville, wow, what a great destination.  The resort was spectacular.  The first few times I attended, I was able to get a ride with Laurie Rossi, and Pat Mannion would also attend.  Last time it was held in Hunstville, I drove and did not mind at all.  I actually presented in Hunstville and even performed at a noon hour spot in the resort.
Next year I am scheduled to present, a d the conference is to be in London.  I traveled there about three years ago with David DiGirolamo.  I think he wants to car pool again next year.  I am thinking a out my theme and actually add ideas to collected bank of ideas when I think of something that is related and interesting.
The OMEA is valuable to a music teacher.  I always come away from it with numerous ideas that I incorporate into my teaching immediately.  It really does have an influence on my ability to teach and arrange interesting music activities.  The resources I gather and the conversations i have while networking help me to save time, money and avoid stressful situations.  I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve as a music educator.
It is costly to attend and with the hotel and food, sometimes I decide otherwise.  But, when I do attend, I never regret that I did.  The lessons I learn and the connections I am able to make, it's worth every dollar I invest.
I think it is very important to support an organization and to be a part of an organization that promotes arts education, specifically music education.  I believe in music education and I enjoy meeting other people who share the same passion.
OMEA also gathers industry supporters such as Harknett music, and saint john's music, and long and mcquade, and Steve's music, and there are great deals on printed music, music accessories, instruments, books And other resources.  Many university programs send representatives, and others like Roland canada will attend to show off the latest educational products.  It's great to have all the top companies share the available space under one roof at a time that you can get a sample of what they can offer you to assist in your teaching.  There is no way I can visit all these places during the school year.
OMEA conference is worthwhile and school principals like the fact that you are developing your professional skills.  You get exposed to current trends in education and are a me to tap into useful information about the future.  So, join OMEA and get on the list, you will also receive the quarterly publication which offers some great articles and more for your membership dollars.
Thanks OMEA, thanks for all that you do, because the conference is only one feature, OMEA is also a strong voice at the government level where policy decisions are made.  It's important to have a group of dedicated music educators watching out for you and our students!  Oh yes, many students attend the conference as well, to perform and to share in the enthusiasm of making music!