3 answers
Lydia
Student
Lake Elmo, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
752 views
How do music teachers feel about not actually being able to play in their bands and choirs?
I'm thinking of becoming a music teacher because I want a stable career in music, but I'm scared that I'll miss playing in the band.
3 answers
John Graham
Music Producer
90
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Lydia,
Just because you're a music teacher doesn't mean you can't participate. When I was in school I was in Choir, Madrigals, Orchestra, and Band. Our music teachers were also independent musicians and singers in their own right. In fact my Concert Choir/Madrigal teacher led a Pop, Rock, & Jazz band that played for our Prom - and they were great! So while being a teacher is certainly a full time job, you can also pursue another music career opportunities part-time, especially when school is out in the Spring, Year-End, and Summer breaks - or evening / weekend gigs while school is still in session. When I was in college choir, there was a distinguished professor from one of the Ivy League schools who led regional choir performances all over the country, and in my area at the time (Southern California), there was a competition to perform under him and we were one of twelve choirs that were selected to perform Handel's Messiah. So there's a case where a director also managed mass choir experiences including and in addition to his own school.
Your music career is only limited by your own imagination, and the effort and resources you're willing to put into it.
Good luck on your journey!
Just because you're a music teacher doesn't mean you can't participate. When I was in school I was in Choir, Madrigals, Orchestra, and Band. Our music teachers were also independent musicians and singers in their own right. In fact my Concert Choir/Madrigal teacher led a Pop, Rock, & Jazz band that played for our Prom - and they were great! So while being a teacher is certainly a full time job, you can also pursue another music career opportunities part-time, especially when school is out in the Spring, Year-End, and Summer breaks - or evening / weekend gigs while school is still in session. When I was in college choir, there was a distinguished professor from one of the Ivy League schools who led regional choir performances all over the country, and in my area at the time (Southern California), there was a competition to perform under him and we were one of twelve choirs that were selected to perform Handel's Messiah. So there's a case where a director also managed mass choir experiences including and in addition to his own school.
Your music career is only limited by your own imagination, and the effort and resources you're willing to put into it.
Good luck on your journey!
Thank you so much! I hadn't thought about it that way.
Lydia
Melanie Arntsen
Learning & Development professional at PwC focused on digital learning design and development
2
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Hi Lydia! We can use great music teachers, so I hope you continue to pursue that. As for missing performing, there are so many opportunities to continue performing in city groups, community groups, state sponsored groups, and church music groups. If you want to continue to share your talents, you'll be able to find the right place. Stay connected to your music connections so they can support you in your goals.
Best of luck!
Best of luck!
I appreciate your support, Melanie
Lydia
Sheryl Genna
Corporate Responsibility Manager
4
Answers
Updated
Sheryl’s Answer
That’s a really valid question, and it’s one many aspiring music educators wrestle with. What’s important to know is that becoming a music teacher doesn’t mean giving up being a musician. In fact, many music teachers are active, professional musicians who continue to play in bands, orchestras, or ensembles on evenings, weekends, and during the summer. Teaching can provide the stability you’re looking for while still leaving room to actively pursue your own musical passions.
While it’s true that your role shifts from being in the ensemble to leading it during the school day, many teachers find that making music with students is deeply fulfilling in a different way. You’re still immersed in music every day-listening, coaching, performing, and shaping sound,while also developing the next generation of musicians. Teaching offers a strong balance: a dependable career rooted in music, paired with the freedom to continue performing in ways that matter to you outside the classroom. I personally know many music teachers that also play in bands. You can do both!
While it’s true that your role shifts from being in the ensemble to leading it during the school day, many teachers find that making music with students is deeply fulfilling in a different way. You’re still immersed in music every day-listening, coaching, performing, and shaping sound,while also developing the next generation of musicians. Teaching offers a strong balance: a dependable career rooted in music, paired with the freedom to continue performing in ways that matter to you outside the classroom. I personally know many music teachers that also play in bands. You can do both!
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Lydia
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