Smith- Who Told You You Could Sing?

MUSIC 23241: MUSIC TEACHING AS A PROFESSION
Mr. Marcus L. Neiman, Assistant Professor
Kent State University School of Music
Fall, 2011

CRN:  200910 – Section number: 001 – Class Days: TR 7:45a – 8:35 am - Classroom: SOM E202
Office: Band Office - 330.672.2965 - Telephone: 330.672.2965 (Kent Campus) - E-mail: mneiman@kent.edu
Office Hours: TR 9:00 – 9:55 am (Additional hours available by appointment)

BlackBoard and Text Readings

Submitted by:  Emily Young
Submitted for: Mr. Marcus L. Neiman, lecturer
Date: November 29, 2011

Smith, Gary R.  Who told you you could sing.
  TRIAD.

    In this article, Gary Smith tells a story of the influence of his music teacher when he was younger.  Smith talks about one teacher who really stands out in his mind.  This teacher was very encouraging and really boosted his confidence. The following school year, this teacher was gone and a new one had taken her place.  When Smith sang for this new teacher the teacher looked at him and asked “Who told you you could sing?”  In that moment, all of Gary’s smiths confidence was crushed and he almost never sang again.
    As a future teacher, it is important to be aware of the impact a teacher’s words can have on a student.  This story proves that point.  Whether positive or negative, students really do listen to their teachers.  Especially at such a vulnerable age.  It is important for us be very aware of everything we say to our students.  As this story illustrates, a teachers words can stick with a student for a very long time.
    I personally feel that a very important quality in a musician is confidence.  I have never had much confidence myself.  Some of my teachers and peers have been helpful in instilling confidence in me with their words of encouragement.  I do not think I would be where I was today if my high school choir director didn’t believe in me.  Encouragement from my college professors continues to fuel me today.  I know how much a few words of encouragement can do for a student and I hope I can help give all of my students confidence in the field of music.