On the road of Music Education, I believe therein lies a calling—an unwavering will, a strong passion to join the ranks of music educators. In the words of Ludwig van Beethoven “To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable;” likewise, I understand the passion required of music educators for their profession. I aspire to join the community of these respected musicians. In order to pursue my dream of music education, I committed to Ball State University. My calling is to cultivate knowledge and learning while facilitating a healthy environment of growth, fellowship, and musicianship.
I yearn to help people and pursue what I love. I have always loved music; thus, musical activities are a large part of my life, from the school band, to the church orchestra, to marching band, and musical pit. I concluded that I desire to become a music educator because I believe it connects my musical passion with my love of helping others. As a music educator, I will be capable of making a difference in students' lives. I will be able to teach others how to play music. I will support students by warmly welcoming them into an organization that many call their second family. Band is a family. A family who is willing to share the burdens of life and help members persevere.
This is who I choose to be: a teacher and a positive influence on society.
The road to education began in the fall of 2008 (the year began the sixth grade) when I first picked up the flute in beginning band. I will forever remember the fateful decision when I officially told my parents that I desired to stay with band and play the flute. I would not be where I am today if not for the passion for music that propelled me then. Throughout my musical career (sixth grade to present) I experimented and joined a variety of ensembles and styles of music. During my eighth grade year I joined the middle school jazz band. My goal was to experience a different style and genre of music than the average middle school concert band (the process was repeated my Senior year of high school).
The fascination for various musical experiences prompted me to participate in a manifold of ensembles in high school—including, but not limited to—marching band, indoor percussion, pep band, musical pit orchestra, symphonic band, and wind ensemble. My involvement in the musical arts was not limited to my high school. I also was an active participant of several organization outside of school, including: Mt. Auburn UMC orchestra, Ball State University Honor Band, and the Symphonic Youth Orchestra of Greater Indianapolis (SYO).
Although involved in many ensembles, I was not content with remaining an average musician. I cultivated ambitions of becoming a leader in these organizations. My ambitions were realized when I was awarded the following positions: flute and cymbal section leader (high school), Senior Vice President (high school), and Flute Principal Player (SYO).
Throughout my musical career, I tapped into a foundational support within my hometown church. One of the, extremely successful, band directors in the area (and his wife) attended the same church that I did. From the beginning they took me under their tutelage and helped me mature as a musician from playing in the church orchestra to working on Group I ISSMA solos for contest. Whenever I needed help, they were always willing to lend a hand. Their persistent efforts to teach me and their unwavering support motivated me to pursue a degree in music education. I wish to emulate them when I join the workforce as an educator. I would not be who I am today, without their efforts; however, they were not alone.
In addition to the local band directors, the Director of Music Ministries at my home church took an interest in me as well. Her focus was less on teaching me and more of bestowing various performance opportunities onto me. Through her guidance I performed either as an accompanist or soloist for the church choir and hand bell choir numerous times over the years. These performances allowed me to expand my repertoire as well as expand my musicianship by teaching me the ability to play as an accompanist and not just the soloist. As a final goodbye to all my years of service, she gifted me my first baton.
I will never forget the family of supports I have in my home church. Because of them and their leadership, I am perusing a degree in music. I hope one day to be in their shoes, inspiring the next generation of musicians.