This year, we are working in partnership with CutCommon to explore how music education can help shape lives. CutCommon's Founding Editor Stephanie Eslake sits down with ANAM Faculty, Musicians and Alumni to excavate the true stories behind the power of music education as seen from the perspective of both emerging and established industry figures.
Music education matters, says Virginia Taylor, flute
My earliest lessons were on the recorder, with a nun at the local Catholic school. [...] Within a year or two, a shiny flute was offered to me, and somehow my destiny was set.
"As educators, we have the power and skills to encourage holistic growth of a human being. This, in turn, allows an individual to find their strengths and therefore become strong enough to tackle difficult challenges."
Read the full interview on CutCommon.
Music education matters, says Harry Ward, violin
I think the most important thing for a teacher is timing (not just in a musical sense!): knowing when to introduce things, when to push harder, when to back off. [...] It takes a special person who is genuinely interested, but also knows how and when to give the student the tools that support and inspire without taking away the student’s own voice.
"Nurturing a passion for music is about the whole person, and not just the tools of the trade."
Read the full interview on CutCommon.
Music education matters, says Anna Goldsworthy, piano
Imparting a love and appreciation of music is not only about creating the next generation of performers, but is also about developing audiences, and fostering a living musical culture in our community.
"As all the research suggests, it is important to provide a continuous, sequential, and developmental music education in schools for all children, and not just for the children of privilege."
Read the full interview on CutCommon.
Music education matters, says Rachel Shaw, French Horn
It is imperative for a teacher to be flexible with their teaching styles. They need to be open to changing and morphing depending on what a student needs at a certain time. [...] Ultimately, though, one thing that I and most musicians always need is support. Physical, emotional, psychological, social – all of it!
"A teacher’s attitude towards music and education can drastically influence the students they teach and mentor. After all, how can they evoke passion in a young musician if they themselves are no longer passionate?"
Read the full interview on CutCommon.
Music education matters, says Sean Burke, tuba
I think it is important to remember that the piece of paper they give you at the end of a degree is more a tangible product of the time you have spent studying, but it isn’t something that can replace the cultural and life experiences you gain.
"Music education teaches us one of the most important lessons in life – working in harmony with other people to achieve a collective goal, regardless of how you or they feel."
Read the full interview on CutCommon.