Standard 3
Standard 3
Standard 3
As a musician, and an educator, the ability to read and write music is a crucial aspect of music
making. In order for an ensemble to be successful, they must have good music literacy. Music educators
need to provide a number of strategies and tools to aid in the student’s development of reading and
writing music.
During my time at K-State the ensembles and classes I have been a part of numerous ensembles,
lessons, and classes that require me to be fluent in reading as well as writing music. My theory classes
started out by teaching me the basics in reading key signatures, time signatures, and simple rhythms.
These skills were expanded upon during each theory class and at the end of each semester we used
music notation software to write music based on these skills. In regards to reading music, that is
something that I do on a daily basis. During practice sessions, ensemble rehearsals, and lessons I am
reading music. I have been fortunate enough to have different teachers provide me with different skill
sets and interpretations to be successful at reading music. In order to improve as a trumpet player, I
constantly had to improve as a music reader.
Reading and writing music will be essential in the success of my students, especially as they
continue through the program at an older age. Just like in a Calculus class, students must know basic
skills in Algebra, Geometry, and College algebra in order to be successful, music students must learn the
basics in order to create a successful ensemble. In order to enforce these skills my students will start
with fundamentals everyday revolving around tone, articulation, and whole ensemble sound. These
skills will be assessed through short student compositions or playing tests for scales. These are not
meant to be stressful, just informative to the teacher of what the students are understanding or not
understanding.
Reading and writing music are essential elements to a successful music classroom. As students
get older and become more advanced musicians, these basic skills become more vital in order to expand
their abilities. My students will read or write music every day. These skills will provide my students with
the ability to continue learning and succeeding as musicians.