The "professional personality" as part of recruitment and retention

There are several factors that should be considered when a band or orchestra director decides to recruit students for an instrumental music program. One of these factors is the fact that band or orchestra is an optional activity. Unlike math, science, or English, participation in music is voluntary. As such, instrumental music directors must actively ask students to participate in ensembles. This is essential to the success or failure of an instrumental music program.

I think that, in order to positively affect program growth and retention, a teacher must adopt a proactive approach as a part of his or her "professional personality." This "professional personality" is different from what I will call a "personal personality." The "professional personality" is the person who students, colleagues, and administrators see on a daily basis, and is always focused on the growth and well-being of his or her students. To me, there is an inherent selflessness in this "professional personality." This personality must be sincerely interested in his or her students as people, but must not cross the line where students consider the teacher a friend.

To me, being sincerely interested in individuals means, among many other things, remembering student's names and important details. This is especially important in recruitment and retention. If a teacher is known to be personable and genuinely interested in the growth and well-being of an individual student, other students will want to gain the benefit of being a part of that band director's group. I think that the "professional personality" is a huge part of the recruitment and retention of any successful band or orchestra in a public school.

Unfortunately, band and orchestra organizations in public schools are not compulsory parts of a curriculum. If they were, recruitment and retention would not be a problem. Regardless, I can provide personal interaction and positive experiences to the students who are part of a voluntary band or orchestra program. Being an excellent teacher with a positive and motivating "professional personality" may help administrators support and advocate for band and orchestra programs on my behalf. Providing positive experiences in band and orchestra may also help the future administrators and leaders in the world advocate on behalf of the importance of excellent music education in public schools.