It’s always a careful balancing act, as I remember

     In conversation with a music director, it reminds me of how arranging events, rehearsals and other music education activities depended on a careful balance.  Let me explain.  This particular teacher will get back to me about a performance invitation offered for one of the ensembles at his school.  There is an athletic event already arranged on the same day and many of the music students involved with the wind ensemble will be participating in the scheduled athletic event - he doesn’t want to double-book.
     I remember so many instances where rehearsals after school were missed by many ensemble members due to Science projects or extra help with math, or the hockey, football, soccer game trips.  Of course I was very flexible with this.  I remember attending school and having an interest in sports and music;  I wanted to do both and why not?
     Many students would arrange with their coaches and other teachers in other subject areas manageable ways to deal with their busy lives!  This too, was it not a good life-teaching challenge?  These students needed to be responsible to themselves as well.  They were required to negotiate, think about and plan homework, practices, rehearsals, and so much more.  It’s a careful balancing act, for sure.  In order to be successful, the student was encouraged to strategize and plan; to discuss and work with others; to appreciate the opportunities available.
   I remember a colleague at another school who delivered a very successful music program for years and years.  It was well established and maintained.  There was tradition and excellent experiences for the students.  This particular colleague disagreed with flexibility.  The student had to make a choice:  music or sports, you cannot do both.  I think this music teacher did have a point, in some way.  In order to do the best work, you must participate full time in that activity.  Besides, other students would also argue that the ensemble could never achieve the best quality artistically with some part-time musicians.  This same colleague would arrange excursions in the summer!  Smart idea, to avoid any conflicts and get a full turn-out of ensemble participation, plus the trips would last longer, not having to miss any school time.
     It was always very challenging for me to develop a strong performing band or choir or jazz band.  Some students would miss rehearsals because of the above;  some would miss because they had better things to do;  some would miss because they had an after-school job.  I recall some students not understanding the importance of rehearsing - these students would say:  “don’t worry, I’ll practice at home”.
     Some music directors would arrange rehearsals early in the morning, to avoid the after school conflicts.  Some directors would arrange evening rehearsals, and some still would try the weekend!  I remember some directors arranging early rehearsals in the summer - a music camp, where all the music for the year would be issued.  For two weeks, the students would get a good start to learning the music - smart idea.
     I remember my teaching career as a real balancing act in so many respects, including the above.  For example, one needs to balance their teaching career with their family needs as well.  In addition, if you are a performer as well (like me), you need to insert that aspect into the mix of balancing too.  Finally, what about your own personal time?