What I Have Taught

General music (Pre-K/Headstart – 8th), chorus, early childhood, and private saxophone lessons. Prior to teaching music, was an at-home instructor for children with autism.

Where I am From and Where I Have Taught

I am from Maryland and taught there for 7 years. Then, I moved to North Carolina where I teach ages 2 – Kindergarten.

Favorite Teaching Memory

My favorite memory comes from a music club that met in my trailer every day after school. It was comprised of a handful of chorus kids who wanted extra music time. We explored a variety of activities, but one day, everyone decided just to play a bunch of instruments after a 4th-grader pulled out his trombone. They were incredibly loud but full of JOY and smiling from ear-to-ear, so I just let the impromptu jam session continue for almost an hour.

Why I Love TpT

The district where I started teaching didn’t have a set curriculum, and as a new teacher, I was completely overwhelmed with creating new lesson plans. During my first year, I would write lesson plans late into the evening every school night. Then, I discovered TpT and it was a gamechanger! I was able to teach with confidence because the resources were created by verteran teachers. After several years, I started making my own resources and graphics. The creativity involved with making/using TpT resources completely energized me as well as my students. Win-win!

Music Teacher Quick Tip

Routines, although they may seem boring, give kids confidence and security. Don’t be afraid to keep a solid routine, you’ll get bored with it before the students!

Two Products From My Shop

I started by making a product that I personally needed most, sub work, but Recorder Cat set was definitely a labor of love after seeing my students struggle with Hot Cross Buns. I found that students were much more likely to READ the notes rather than play by ear when we examined a tune in several different ways. Try the freebie for yourself! My second product is a game that my students requested almost daily, 4 Corners. 4 Corners is great for reviewing objectives or as a time filler because they can be played for 5 minutes or 25 minutes. The game also allows students to move quietly around the room if they need to stretch.

I’m so grateful for this opportunity to collaborate with my fellow music educators! I hope you enjoy our future posts and teaching tips.

Thanks for stopping by!
Jane