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How can I market myself best as a choral music educator?

I'm a junior in high school right now, but I know that I'm destined to be a music teacher. I mostly have experience in a choral setting, and that is my true passion, but I know not many schools will hire someone who only has a choral background or will hire them only as a general music educator. I know that this is what I want to do with my life, but how can I appeal to larger numbers of schools? Are there any specific classes or certifications I could get in addition to my degree?
#music #musiceducation #musiced #teaching #choral-music

music musiceducation musiced choral-music
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Elizabeth’s Answer

Hi Kylie! I am so glad that you want to pursue choral music. Yay! First, as you mentioned, you will need to get your music degree in Music Education. As for additional classes, perhaps you can start your own choir. Whether you start one now or in college is up to you. But the more experience you get, the better off your chances will be when a school is looking to hire you. Sing in a choir now and continue to throughout college. This will increase your knowledge of the repertoire. You will know what it is like to be in the choir before you stand in front of it to lead. You can observe how the director conducts rehearsals, how he/she teaches the music. You can decide what you like - if you want to teach in the same way - or decide what you think you would do differently. This is part of your education! If you find a good conductor whose style and methods you admire, then see if he/she can mentor you. Let him/her know your desire to become a choral conductor. Work hard at it. Study choral music. Listen to choral music. Immerse yourself in it. Find libraries where you can borrow choral music scores and study them. Persevere. And if need be, be willing to relocate to your dream job. I wish you all the best!

Elizabeth recommends the following next steps:

Sing in a choir now. Meet with the director and ask questions so you can learn.
Start a choir when you feel the time is right.
Get your Music Education degree.
Study choral music by looking at the scores and listening, too.
Find a mentor who is doing what you want to do.
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Kristen’s Answer

Yes you’re correct most schools don’t just have a coral department would be a music teacher but if you look around and you’re willing to relocate then you will widen your chances of getting a job. I myself am an art teacher and often times they’re few and far between as well. Most schools only have one art teacher some high schools have several. I have been lucky to find many jobs but sometimes they’re not the most ideal so being flexible will be key for you. As far as marketing yourself you really just need to make sure you’re engaged in the community and programs that get your name out there like community events that you could participate in. I realize this time in life is a little tricky but be involved in your school is a great start if you’re not already.

Kristen recommends the following next steps:

Get involved with your school
Find local community events to be involved with
Tutor/teach younger students
Voice lessons for the community
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