Challenges of Teaching Music

Balancing necessary theory and history
expectations - how much detail to go into?

Pop music vs. music meant for depth and growth

Subtopic

Time-tabling courses so that as many students as possible can take Music without conflicts with
other courses (such as French immersion courses)

Low-income students are not able to afford performance
attire or overnight field trips. Fundraising not always viable solution - parents do not feel comfortable with taking money from school.

Clear communication with administration over long-term
growth and goals of the program. Getting them on board.

Character & leadership building vs.
"Music looks good on my resume."

Maintaining high expectations for
growth vs. expectations for easy
grade

High expectations balanced with
students' other academic and
extracurricular activities

Clear communication with parents
about students' other academic and
extracurricular activities.

Getting parents on board with department
expectations/values so that program is not
affected by students undervaluing music
compared to other subjects.

Balancing budget with consumable supplies
(reeds/mouthpieces) and making sure there
are enough

Not enough tubas/double basses for students
to keep one at home and one at school.
Students do not want to learn larger instruments,
results in unbalanced ensembles.

BUDGET!!!!!