Inspiration

Well it has definitely been awhile since I've posted on my blog. Shame on me. I just got back from watch the Cadets of Bergen County in their final rehearsal at Chanhassen High School. And it was inspirational to say the least. Many thoughts swam through me head as I drove back home from this short 15 minute performance/rehearsal. First, I am reminded at the need to be inspired in life. As musicians, we need to see incredible performances like this on a regular basis. It makes me want to practice, write music, study music, teach music, etc. It is so motivational. But it can apply to anything in life. I think of a couple friends of mine who are awesome parents that inspire me to be a better dad. I think of the pastor at my church who inspires me in so many areas in life. I think of reading the Bible, eating food prepared by a great chef, watching professional golfers at the British Open and so on. Inspiration is something we all need.

Another thing that was a bit more specific was how marching band is generally viewed so negatively in our school district by our middle school kids. I saw two sets of parents tonight who were really enjoying the show tonight. In both cases, their kids were not there. Now who knows. They could have had other commitments, but what a great opportunity for our kids to see how incredible the marching experience can be. We must find a way to expose students to the music opportunities that are out there and how incredible they can be. That is something I need to improve upon as a teacher. Music education is not just rehearsing recycled music in a band, choir or orchestra rehearsal and performing a concert. IT IS SO MUCH MORE!

That leads me to a blog entry for another day...one that is hopefully coming sooner than later.