Seeking inspiration for our students and ourselves!(In Unison)

As the gray days turn brighter and grow longer, the temperatures moderate and buds begin to form on the trees, the spring infuses me with a sense of renewal and excitement. Perhaps another spring ritual should also be credited for my positive feelings--my annual attendance at the MTNA National Conference, this year taking place in Atlanta, Georgia March 28 through April 1. Following the conference each year, I return to my teaching inspired and filled with new ideas. The combination of attending the many wonderful and enlightening conference events, stimulating discussions I have with colleagues and very special reunions with friends and former students make this annual ritual one that I eagerly anticipate. The Atlanta Conference will be my 25th MTNA conference!

With our busy schedules and our many responsibilities, it is important for all of us to take time to seek out ways to renew ourselves on a regular basis and to also help our students discover sources of motivation and inspiration. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Seek Exposure To Outstanding Performances

Whether attending a concert in our local communities, listening to performances on the Internet or on CDs in the comfort of our living rooms, or traveling some distance to hear renowned artists and ensembles, hearing quality performances can revolutionize our performances and teaching. Take your students on field trips to concerts so they, too, can benefit from hearing the magnificent sounds and interpretive ideas that inspire and formulate the basis for their musical decisions.

Seek Challenges That Encourage Personal And Professional Growth

There is nothing like setting a date for some kind of performance to motivate us to practice and to make that practice smarter and more efficient. We see it all the time with our students when a recital, competition or jury is approaching. Having that goal provides a powerful incentive. The sense of accomplishment that we feel having successfully achieved that goal encourages us to want to continue and do even better. There are many kinds of goals that we can set, ranging from deciding to learn a challenging new composition, performing in a recital, participating in a competition, pursuing MTNA Certification, taking lessons, accepting a leadership position in a professional association, learning new technology skills and so on.

Seek Ways To Contribute To The Growth Of Others