How to Build a Thriving Music Program: Expert Advice from Adrian Gordon

From the Cool Cat Teacher Blog by Vicki Davis

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In the world of music education, building a thriving music program is both an art and a science. Music teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of their students, and expert Adrian Gordon offers invaluable insights into this rewarding journey. With over 20 years of experience in the music classroom, leading all-state choruses, and authoring the book “Note to Self: A Music Director’s Guide for Transitioning to a New School and Building a Thriving Music Program,” Adrian Gordon shares his wisdom on student engagement, music classroom strategies, and overcoming challenges such as music program funding and competition with other electives.

Expert Music teacher Adrian Gordon shares some of his tips and pointers on teaching music in episode 884.

Key Takeaways:

• Prioritize self-care to sustain your energy and passion as a music teacher.
• Remember your “why” to stay motivated and focused on the impact you have on students' lives.
• Meet students where they are and set incremental goals to foster growth and confidence.
• Build a community within your music program through fun, bonding activities outside the classroom.
• Emphasize the importance of patience and discipline in mastering musical skills.
• Create a safe and welcoming environment where students feel valued and supported.

For more insights and practical advice from Adrian Gordon, check out the full podcast and video interview.

Podcast – How to Build a Thriving Music Program

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YouTube Video – How to Build a Thriving Music Program

Adrian Gordon – Bio as Submitted

Adrian Gordon is a 20 year music teacher, composer, and director of award winning orchestras around the country. He is author of “Note to Self” a book for music teachers everywhere.

Adrian Gordon is an internationally performed composer and seasoned music educator. As a composer with Alfred Music and founder of Leap Year Music Publishing, he specializes in publishing string music for diverse school ensembles. His compositions appear on Orchestra Association Music Performance Reading Lists across multiple states, including California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, and Texas.

Adrian is a sought-after clinician and conductor, sharing his expertise with diverse audiences. He also authored the insightful book “Note to Self: A Music Director’s Guide for Transitioning to a New School and Building a Thriving Music Program.”   Adrian holds a B.A. in music from the University of Miami and a master’s degree in music education from Florida International University.

Born and raised in Miami, Florida, he currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife and two sons, serving as the Director of Orchestras at Providence Day School.

Blog: www.adriangordonmusic.com

Twitter: @apgordonmusic

Facebook: www.facebook.com/adriangordonmusic

YouTube: @leapyearmusiconline

Disclosure of Material Connection: This episode includes some affiliate links. This means that if you choose to buy I will be paid a commission on the affiliate program. However, this is at no additional cost to you.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers and are from companies I can recommend. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” This company has no impact on the editorial content of the show.

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