From Rags to Riches: One School's Success Story

Any discussion of building or rebuilding a struggling program must begin with an admission that a struggling program is itself a subjective concept. For some, what is considered "struggling" to others may be the highest-achieving group they have had. Some may yearn for higher ratings or placements. Others may dream of a larger band. Of course, some may inherit a program where Coke bottles are lined up in trophy shelves (that one is Kirby). Whatever the situation, let’s think instead about a process for building a healthy program that everyone can ultimately find satisfying.  

 

This may seem like an odd thing to say, but don’t feel you have to go down to their level. Instead, bring them up to yours. In other words, it isn’t a popularity contest; it’s a professional contest. The members you want to keep and buy into your program are the ones who will recognize your attention to detail. You are the best musician they know. Act like it. Act like you are Leonard Bernstein returned to life. Find a contagious energy.

 

1. Serious teams work hard.  Make sure you work as hard as every athletic team on your campus. 
2. Play quality literature. There are many arrangements of classical band and orchestral literature. If you can’t find one, arrange it yourself. Sure, there’s a place for everyone’s favorite pop song, but remember, you are trying to inspire them. If I’m a basketball player, I’m watching every Oklahoma City Thunder game. Likewise, your students are holding real instruments. Show them videos of professionals doing what they are doing at the highest level.
3. Celebrate everything.  Don’t lie, but when something is better, say so. Tell them how proud you are of what they’ve accomplished.
4. Recruit.  When we think of recruiting, most think of incoming beginners, so get to know the elementary music teachers. We could do an entire session on that topic, so we’ll leave it for another day.  Equally important is recruiting the students you already have.  Talk about the high school band to your younger groups. Talk about trips.  Show them videos.  Make them want to be in a high school band more than anything. I was recently talking to a group of students and expressed some disappointment in a show from a few years ago that wasn’t as successful as some more recent ones. A freshman said, “I liked that show.  When you showed it to us in the sixth grade, that’s when I started practicing.”  You never know what will spark their commitment.
5. All of the above will inspire students to study privately. Find proficient private teachers and bring them to your school if possible.

Change what isn’t working.

Sometimes the way your program is set up needs to change.  Win the administration over.  Be professional about everything. Don’t be condescending when proposing fundamental changes to your program.  Over the years, I have found it helpful to write concise, professional proposals that outline the current state, why it is undesirable, how we need it to be, and several options for achieving the goal. 

Having administrators as allies is invaluable, so a logical, unemotional approach works well.  Having administrators as allies is invaluable, so a logical, unemotional approach works well. Even though competition may be the language they speak, don’t forget to explain why everything you want is for the students. Then, if you get to meet in person, dress for the part, and take a warm, yet more passionate, approach.  Sometimes you won’t get the answer you want. Be persistent and find as many options as you can to get what you want.  Again, avoid arguing or anything that alienates the administration.

Be an inspiration for the administration, too. Don’t hesitate to let them know of successes. I have an email newsletter that sends rich text, including photos and graphics. Every few weeks, more frequently in marching band, I use an email list that includes every district administrator and school official. Even middle school and elementary schools, because you need and want them on your side, too. It reads like a general announcement or flyer, but in reality, they are the only recipients. I receive more feedback from those emails than from any other. The information they contain has been reprinted in district social media posts and newspapers, and has been referred to in discussions and meetings.  Consider educating everyone, not just students. 

Change often happens slowly. Don’t be discouraged. It is worth the effort, and good luck!