The fireworks are currently being set off, a timely reminder to get cracking on my end of year post. I would normally post on Facebook, but getting back to the blog has me quite pumped and keen to be writing here once again.
Photography courtesy of socrgrl14.
2017 has been a year of milestones that I have enjoyed being a part of. This business turned 10, I completed my tenth year of teaching at Grafton at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium, the Bellingen Youth Orchestra celebrated its tenth anniversary. Orara High School had its first year of concert band without any members that originally formed the ensemble in 2010, and it was very successful.
I wondered if I would ever get this far, and if I would still be interested in music tuition after ten years. I have absolutely loved it, and continue to find many new facets to explore and share with many people. As for any teaching profession, you'll be finding your feet to begin with. The longer you can stay in the game the more you discover about yourself, different people, communities, and these days how the science of learning and relationships develop as a large part of this.
Exiting these first ten years now brings about greater and more exciting challenges that lie ahead. It is fair to say that we currently in a musical generational shift from the Coffs Coast to the Clarence Valley. A lot of events, people, and decisions have brought about all kinds of change for better or for worse. Musicians have come and left, ensembles formed and dispersed, opinions and views have been shared and transformed, and as a result there has been progress on a lot of fronts that has left this area in a promising position at the end of 2017.
There are many things I would like to see happen going forward. More schools taking on music programs, greater networking between the school music communities, the eradication of NAPLAN, and even greater teaching as we continue to invest in our future generations. A lot of us will continues to work hard for students, families, and their communities.
A lot of thank yous as always
Firstly, to my wife, Emelia, and our three kids Bennett, Isaac, and Zarahlinda. The travel and time away throughout the week is a constant working for the family, but also for them to help out and be supportive along the way. Emelia has essentially been my accountant, still finding ways of improving our system as we go along while still making sure that I am travelling well and remaining organised. I can safely say that without her influence, we wouldn't be as prepared and organised as we are today. Oh, and her cooking is the best (just ask the kids that have her treats at the end of year party...)
To the staff heading up the programs at the different schools I teach at. Ann Phelan (Bellingen High), Liz Scott (Bellingen Public), Simon Kermode (Orara High), Judy Thorn (Urunga Public) and Adam Wills (Clarence Valley Conservatorium). It's always appreciated to discuss different ideas that either of us present, and to see what more can be offered to students of these schools and institutions.
To the students and their families. Without you we wouldn't have any community or music, and the support we have for each other can only strengthen our society further going forward. We have an amazing generation of students emerging that we will always aim to give everything we have to support and nurture going forward.
To my relatives that have checked in every now and then. This year has been a challenging year as both of my grandfathers passed away, but to reflect on what they have done and left a bit of what they did as amazing people with each of us is humbling and inspirational going forward.
To the musicians and ensembles I worked with this year whether we performed or not. From orchestra, to chamber ensemble, and even a challenging flute/clarinet duet for an Australian premiere, the music and musicians I work with keep everyone on their toes and alert to provide performance at a high standard.
To the other music tutors and teachers who have had a moment to chat and share their thoughts and ideas. Many conversations have gone on to inspire thought and action as we aim to develop and improve further the programs we are involved with.
To the Sawtell Uniting Church once again for allowing me to use their premises for private tuition a couple of afternoons per week. While my teaching work has reduced in Sawtell, it is still much appreciated to use the building and inspire students to play with a large, joyful sound. Even while ukulele groups are playing across the road...
And lastly to all of those who have been of support via social media. Whether it's this blog, the Facebook business page, or any other avenues in the future. Your support and sharing of this work is not only a boost to this business but, more importantly, bringing about a greater awareness of the value of music education and how it can impact individuals, families, and communities.
Farewell, 2017. And may 2018 bring a lot more to your future!
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