Professional Musicians and Associations
Some of the most inspiring moments in a budding string student’s quest for playing, magically transpires when hearing and working with expert players.
Students are motivated hearing experienced professional string players perform and share their expertise. When the right personnel are invited to share their talents with your class, working with seasoned professionals increases confidence and enthusiasm for learning.
The process of finding the best professional coaches for your program, begins with learning about string musician resources in your area. As mentioned above, inviting the right personnel makes a huge difference. Word of mouth is the best source of referrals. Regardless of a professional musician’s performance level, above all, they must be positive people and effective communicators who relate well with students.
Most municipalities have music educator networks, and local youth orchestras. The National Association for Music Education host workshops and events designed to help orchestra programs succeed. Local music association chapters, hold solo and ensemble festivals that offer valuable student feedback. Another active resource is the American String Teacher’s Association (ASTA).
As students become more experienced, they will enjoy the opportunity to audition for youth orchestras. Listing these ensembles, along with audition requirements on your school orchestra website, helps to motivate students and encourage progress.
An excellent source for finding professional musicians in your area is to contact your local chapter of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). The highest caliber orchestra musicians in your region are members of the musician’s union. The AFM’s Music Performance Trust Fund, is a program which offers funding to help offset the cost of performances that are open to the public.
Student Teacher Opportunities
It is most probable that as a music educator, you have fulfilled the role of student teacher. Approaching the chairpersons at area colleges and universities that offer music education degrees and alerting them about your program is a wise idea.
Having a college student assist with giving string sectionals and working with students individually, fulfill collective educational goals. Student teachers gain valuable classroom ensemble training skills and often can be applied as course or community service credits. This is a creative way for everyone to learn and thrive.
