Key Takeaways

Especially in your first 5 years you have to give yourself a lot of grace

You have to allow yourself to make mistakes in order to become the educator you were meant to be. It takes grace to get past the struggles, criticism, and self-doubts that are common in the first few years.

Music can be a job and a hobby

Whatever feeds you – whatever makes you feel good – IS good. Just because you teach band by day doesn’t mean you can’t play in the community band by night. Go with it!

Find a mentor

This might be the most important advice I hear again and again. Find your tribe. Reach out to the more experienced directors in your area. They are so often willing to help and can become your lifelines. The hardest part is simply asking them for their help.

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