By Michael Spresser,
Director of Pop and Lawson-Gould Publications
“Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.” ― A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
Traditionally, November is a month reminding us of the blessings and good that surround us. For music educators, it is also a month of much preparation for the upcoming holiday season and all it brings. In the midst of rehearsals, concert planning, faculty meetings, fund-raising and so on, it is important to remind ourselves that there are students and parents who are grateful for all we do. Many times that gratitude may be unspoken, but we can see it if we look closely:
• the student eyes that light up when they finally grasp a new concept
• the sheer joy that performing often brings to both performer and audience
• the way music positively affects our schools and communities
• the student who becomes a music teacher because of our influence
As we head into this busiest of seasons, I join my editorial colleagues, Andy Beck and Anna Wentlent, in sharing our gratitude for everything you do in the classroom and beyond. We appreciate your continued support of Alfred Music and encourage you to remember that even as life gets busier, even when you are too busy with “non-teaching” responsibilities, even if at times you feel you have a very small heart, there is always something which can fill your heart and mind with gratitude.