Motivation in an Orchestra Class
Most students begin playing an instrument are fairly motivated. They want to know everything there is to know about their instrument and constantly push the teacher to challenge them. After a few months, this motivation can wane as students possibly become frustrated or bored. Having taught both in a junior high (where grades were assigned) and in an after school program (where no grades were given), I’ve found that motivating students to achieve requires some creativity.
Giving students a grade will not usually motivate them to become better musicians. In my experience, giving a grade (although necessary in a school setting) often encourages students to do the minimum amount required for the grade desired (i.e. How much do I have to do to get a B?). It can also foster dishonesty (especially where practice records are concerned).
I’ve found that younger students (Grades 4-7) enjoy having charts where they can visually see their progress. I typically buy large charts that students can put stickers on as they complete or pass off each skill. Every month or so, we have a drawing in which students can put their name in for every 2 achievements they have completed. I’ve gotten local music stores to donate many of the items in the drawings.
I’ve often used a piece of music that my students really want to play as motivation for them to learn the basic skills. I’ll tell them that if they want to play this specific piece of music, they need to master certain skills.
If you have any ideas on motivation, please add comments as I’m always looking for ways to improve in this area!
Topics: General, Classroom Teachers |
August 7th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
I probably need one of your charts for myself. Seriously - and I need a piece of music that I would like to learn.
Talk to you later,
ME
August 13th, 2007 at 8:47 am
Excellent ideas! Keeping up the motivation is my main struggle.
August 14th, 2007 at 7:48 am
I think I have too much motivation but not enough money.
One question: Don’t Pianos have strings inside? Can’t you consider them a string instrument?
But then again I do want to learn to play the guitar as well.
-So many instruments, not enough fingers or lungs… or time… or money.
Also, maybe you can have each student pick a musician as a guide. For example; If you have violin students then they would have to pick someone like Yehudi Menuhin or Joshua Bell. Maybe the school or teacher could provide them with their cds and inforomation on that player.
The students would learn from their “guide” not to give up since they themselves had hard times as well.
August 16th, 2007 at 6:09 am
Thanks for the great comments everyone. Diego, pianos are actually considered part of the percussion section- strange, huh. But then again, most woodwind instruments aren’t made of wood either. But you’re right, they do have strings.
I liked the idea of having students choose a mentor or guide. It also reminded me that I need to play more classical cds for my class to model proper tone and get them excited about learning.