6 Reasons to Attend a Music Teaching Conference

This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending our state music teachers conference with approximately 80 other teachers from across the state. This is always a highlight of my teaching year, and I was reminded yet again of the value of attending such events. For those who maybe haven’t taken the step yet of attending a music teaching conference, I thought I would share my top 6 reasons to invest the time and money to make this a priority as a piano teacher:

1. Connect with Colleagues.

Over the years I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many fabulous teachers who have encouraged me in many ways! This small contingent representing our local association has been a faithful support in my journey as a piano teacher.

2. Gain Exposure to New Music.

Especially with the emphasis in the music education community on diversity, there is a wealth of new material being presented from underrepresented composers. I especially loved a session I attended by Po Sim Head on pedagogical music by Asian composers.

3. Learn Teaching Tips.

In nearly any session, even if it’s just a passing comment, you will often glean nuggets of wisdom that you can incorporate into your teaching. An excellent session by Chris Madden highlighted the value of teaching technique using excerpts from repertoire.

4. Observe Masterclasses.

Most conferences include a masterclass, often given by the guest artist. At our conference, David Korevaar from Colorado University worked with four piano students who played pieces by Beethoven, Rachmaninoff, Ravel, and Mendelssohn. His extensive knowledge of the literature was insightful, his careful technical work with students was instructive, and his gracious interaction with students was inspiring.

5. Contribute to the Profession.

Many conferences put out a call for session proposals, opening the door for any music teacher to present on a topic that they want to share with other teachers. I enjoyed giving a workshop this weekend titled “Technology Treasure Trove” that explored ways we can utilize technology to run our studios more efficiently, professionally, and creatively. I had presented a workshop by the same name at our state conference in 2011, so it was fun to compare what I presented then v. now and see how far we’ve come technologically in the past 12 years!

6. Be Inspired.

There’s just nothing quite like spending a few days soaking in the company and expertise of the music education community to inject enthusiasm in your own teaching. I always leave excited to return to my own students and implement new ideas and explore new music.

So, if you’ve been debating whether to register for a conference – whether a state or national association one, or one put on by another music or arts education – I hope you’ll give it a try and see for yourself just how invigorating it is for your life and work as a piano teacher!