Michael Behnke

Music Teacher Reflection

As my first position in education, I would like to be a high school band or orchestra

teacher. Along with this, I would be interested in teaching music technology because I enjoy

using music programs on computers. In past years, I have been able to listen and play famous

pieces that have completely changed my perspective of music. I believe these pieces significantly

enhanced my appreciation for the work of composers and my desire to teach future generations

the beauty of music. This understanding and development as a musician is easier to achieve

when there is already a background in learning basic musical literacy. I believe that high school

students who already have experience learning and playing their instruments might be able to

appreciate music history and the greatness of composers more than they would in earlier grades.

As far as long term goals of my career, I would like to touch children’s lives and have

them develop an appreciation for music so that it will always be a part of their lives, even if it is

not their career. I would like students to go into their adult life knowing that music is always

there as an outlet for inspiration, relaxation, and enjoyment. Aside from just musical knowledge,

I want to help students become better learners and people. It has been shown that learning music

and playing an instrument uses all parts of the brain and helps students focus better in all other

subjects. To achieve these goals and maximize my effect on students, I would use my experience

in teaching and build relationships with students to cater to their individual needs.

All of my work with music and educating students will bring me personal satisfaction to

know that I am helping students be their best and appreciate a fine art, which can be life-

changing. I want to be an inspiration and a role model to students just as my music teachers have

been to me. No matter what career I have, I want to make sure music is always a prominent
aspect of my life because it has always been an important passion that I will continue to explore

and share with my family.