My mother in law scored this interview for me! I am excited to be able to add music into the mix! Thank you Anne!
Q: What is the title of your profession?
A: Music Director and Piano Teacher
Q: What do you do?
A: I teach choral music to grades6-12 in an all girls’ private school. This includes 6th, 7th, 8th grade music, music appreciation, upper school chorus, direct music for middle and upper school musicals, liturgical music ensemble provides music for school masses (Catholic school), lunch and study supervision, budget, lesson plans, curriculum.
Q: Have you always worked in this field?
A: No
Q: If no, what was your prior profession and what made you change your profession?
A: I was a Church Liturgy and Music Director in Catholic Church. I made change to accommodate my daughter’s schedule as she got older. As a teacher, I was available in the evenings to take her to lessons and events. As a church music director, I had too many evening commitments. I continue to give piano lessons.
Q: Why did you choose this profession?
A: I was drawn to music at an early age – especially piano.
Q: Did you go to college or a trade school for this profession?
A: I have a Bachelor’s in Piano and Music History and a Masters in Piano Performance.
Q: How long did you go to school?
A: 6 years at SUNY Fredonis.
Q: Do you use your degree in your job?
A: Yes. One must have in depth musical knowledge and skill to be successful in this career.
Q: Does your job require continued education?\
A: Yes, education classes and workshops The more the better as there are many new innovations in music education.
Q: Does your job require a certification or board testing?
A: Independent schools do not necessarily require certification but it is helpful. It does require a music degree.
Q: What is a day in the life of your job?
A: I am at school by 7:15 am, teach several classes, lesson planning/music selection, might have lunch duty or study supervision, division or grade level meeting or department meeting, might eat lunch at my computer or go to the lunch room and eat with other teachers/administration, answer too many emails, after school show rehearsal, go home 5:00-6:00 pm, occasional work at home after dinner
Q: Does it change day to day?
A: Students are never the same from day to day but the general tasks are the same. Music selections vary as does the teaching content.
Q: Do you work with the public?
A: Yes, I work with parents and students.
Q: What do you think makes a person successful in this profession?
A: Excellent training in both music and education, understanding of childhood developmental stages, good listener, dedicated to teaching – passion
Q: Does your profession require travel?
A: Some choir tours. Once yearly
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Seeing young people develop a passion for the beauty and meaningful expression of music and providing them with an opportunity to learn the skills necessary to make their dreams a reality.
Q: What do you dislike about your job?
A: Administration
Q: What advice would you give to a child/student that is considering this profession?
A: Be prepared to give fully of your time every day and not have much time for yourself during the school year. It is very rewarding and worth the commitment. However, do try to find time to eat well, sleep well, exercise and stay healthy.
Q: If you had to do it all over again, would you choose the same profession?
A: I think so but I might also consider doing music as an aside rather than my means of living.
Q: Are you having fun?
A: Usually!
Q: Do you receive a pension?
A: No but many teachers in public and independent schools do.