Technology makes the 9 possible

I started composing at a very young age, was guided by my dad, and loved to create music until I met my first composition teacher.  All of a sudden, I experienced the disappointment of feeling my music wasn't good enough, because I didn't compose in a particular style.  The Vermont MIDI Project eliminates that kind of experience.  Students can compose in a safe and positive environment with a "take it, or leave it" rule.  It inspired me to see if the 2 schools I've observed, in fact, have the 9 National Standards, or even know about 5, 6, &, 7 (read, notate, compose, and analyze).   

Friday, I went to Bedford High School to meet my cousin, Darren (a sophomore section leader of the drum line) and introduced him to Sibelius.  He transcribes, composes, and arranges music, but did not have the technology to print out his work until this school year.  5 minutes later, he was hooked.  I walked away, and did not even show him how to start a new score.  He knew right away how many instruments he needed, and what font he wanted to use.  He then said, "WOW, this is so much easier than FINALE".

Later on, the drum line started coming in to get ready for the game.  The percussion teacher wasn't there which meant Darren was in charge.  His fellow classmates showed a respect for him, but could not understand some of the warm ups.  I also noticed him teaching rudiments to the drum line by rote.  A few minutes later he tells me, "I can't wait to score everything so they understand what I'm trying to say."

The Band Master and I had a nice long talk.  Mr. Nichols (Band Master) has been trying to get technology in the school for 4 years, and at 12:30 today (Monday) he will be able to start his dream.  Mr. Nichols mentioned the first program from the website, musictheory.com and talked about the importance of the students balancing the National Standards.  With marching season, it has been difficult since they prepare a 1/2 time show, pregame, and contest memorized.  He will now has a class everyday devoted to music technology.  His has a specific order of programs that he will introduce, but he will not proceed until the students have a firm grasp of theory.

I have seen with my own eyes what these articles mean.  Music Educators have a responsibility to teach the National Standards, but it becomes a challenge when administration puts more emphasis on the finished product.  Rudolph mentions in his article, arranging tricks to work with what you have in an ensemble.  National Standards 1,2, and 3 is what most people see,  4-9 are the standards that make it possible.  Many factors impede these standards, but technology has made it possible for the teacher to reach each student individually at the stroke of a mouse.