Palen Music Center Quick Note

Monday, November 17, 2008

The PMC Quick Note is a weekly service provided to all area directors.  It is part of our mission to support the lives of band directors across the Midwest.  The weekly Quick Note contains helpful tips and suggestions from area directors, spotlights on area college and university band programs, calendars of upcoming events, advocacy articles promoting music education, links to helpful web resources, and much more.  Comments, suggestions, ideas, and articles are always welcome.

Looking for help on a particular topic? Be sure to check out our Quick Note Catalog of back issues!

It Only Takes A Moment To Make Someone's Day

Take a minute to think about the last time that someone truly made your day. It may have been an unexpected compliment, a warm smile, or a fun surprise. Think about the person that gave you that uplifting moment. It took them very little time or effort, yet they lifted your spirits and gave you a memory that stayed with you. As a teacher, you have hundreds of opportunities to pass along that spark.

Take a moment today to specifically target a student who rarely gets noticed. Find something special about them and make a big deal about it. Call the parents at home to brag on the kid and let them know how impressed you've been this week. By targetting a few kids each week to "prop up" you will build incredible rapport, student dedication, and parental support.

Here are some ideas to make someone's day:

• Stick a note inside the case of one of your band students telling them they are doing a great job and you have noticed their improvement!
• Call the parent of a kid who normally struggles. Tell Mom and Dad that you just really enjoy having their child in your class.
• Get some funding from the band boosters and purchase a huge fruit/candy/goodie basket. Personally deliver it to the bus barn with a thank you note for all of the work the bus drivers do for the band/orchestra.
• Take your PMC road rep to lunch (shameless plug).
• Write a letter to one of your former teachers letting them know the influence they've had on your life.
• Smile!