Promotion

Many years have passed, and I continue to teach music classes. I must admit, I am surprised that students are still interested in exploring music by studying concert band instruments such as the clarinet or trombone. Way back at the beginning of my teaching career, I did think to myself on many occasions, and often questioned myself whether or not I would be teaching music in 2005, or in 2010. I simply was not convinced that students would be interested in learning music in this older way. With all the technology entering the education system, the midi, the digital audio, the faster machines, and exciting ways to layer high quality sounds, instantly, and the costs were coming down quickly too.  One could easily afford to design a high quality studio in their home and communicate / sharing ideas efficiently over the net. So, how is this possible?
Reflecting on my career, I notice that promotion has been a big part of my success. I also am annoyed at this as well. I remember being so nervous at specific times during the school year, especially during course selection process.  Will there be enough interest to keep me teaching music for another year - I wondered? I would think about how fortunate it would be to be teaching Math or English - these subjects always need teschers! Then, of course I realized that students selecting music really wanted to be there, so at least I would enjoy working with these students for the most part. Promotion is important for music teschers to keep a job.  There is no guarantee. A music teacher must continue to offer special experiences to students, arrange excursions, and get involved with new ways to delivering music courses that are interesting and challenging. A music tescher has to keep good communication with parents, get involved in the community and generate support from the school administration.  A music teacher must continue to stay current with new ideas, keep up to date with music skills and understanding. A successful music teacher runs many bands: concert band, jazz band, R & B group, small ensembles, etc. in daily music classes, a music teacher must talk about the importance of music, offer lessons that attract interest and are connected to technology. A music teacher must continue to promote, promote and promote. The music department must be active in the school, perform at assemblies, and at pep rallies, and a sporting events, in the hallways, etc. There is music council and recordings, P.A. Announcements, and of course fund raising!
I am grateful that I still get to do what I enjoy doing, so much everyday.  I look forward to preparing for concerts and music festivals. It's fun and interesting. But, again, I must admit, I am surprised. I wonder, will learning and studying music still be appealing in 2030?