Let’s be real for a second: We’ve all had those “Sunday Scaries” where the thought of Monday morning feels a little heavy. I know what it’s like when a class comes in “hot,” and you feel like you’re just treading water. But what if I told you the secret to staying inspired in the music room isn’t about working harder—it’s about filling your own creative cup?
I recently spent some time chatting with Matt Shea, an absolute rock star in joyful, movement-based teaching. From his journey as a bassoon player to studying at the Orff Institute in Salzburg, Matt has some incredible “Secret Sauce” for keeping the magic alive.
1. Professional Development That Fills Your Soul
First of all, staying inspired in the music room often means getting out of your own four walls. Matt recently attended the Orff Summer Institute in Austria, and his biggest takeaway wasn’t a theory book—it was the doing.
Additionally, Matt is pursuing his certification in Dalcroze Eurythmics. If you’ve never tried it, it’s all about animating music with your body. Even if you aren’t a piano pro (and trust me, my piano proficiency was a struggle!), these techniques can totally transform your classroom energy. Therefore, don’t be afraid to stick a toe into a new methodology!
2. The Power of Children’s Literature
We all know I am the “Storybook Queen,” but Matt takes it to the next level by using picture books as the foundation for entire programs. Using a book like What the Road Said by Cleo Wade can provide a “warm hug” to students and teachers alike on the hard days.
Don’t let your “May Wall” (that end-of-year burnout) stop you from being creative. Use books to:
- Create Unifying Themes: Use a chant from a book as transition music.
- Inspire Movement: Use Harold and the Purple Crayon or try the Crab Rave lesson plan to spark creative dance.
- Bridge to the Greats: Connect books about artists like Kandinsky to musical improvisation.
3. Feeding Your Creative Mind Outside of School
How do we keep staying inspired in the music room when we feel like we have zero time? Matt suggests looking into your “Fluffy Toolbox” of personal hobbies. Whether it’s playing in a community ensemble or reading a life-changing book, you have to be an artful person to teach artfully.
First of all, Matt recommends a few “must-reads” for any creative:
- The Creative Act by Rick Rubin (Perfect for a reset!)
- Teach Like a Pirate (For those days you need a punchy boost.)
- Lighting Their Fires by Rafe Esquith.
Additionally, remember that simple is a management strategy! You don’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, just mending a piece of clothing or listening to a new podcast is enough to jumpstart your brain.
Check it out! Your Inspiration Action List:
- Book a Workshop: Nothing beats live PD to find “your people.”
- Try a New Book: Pick up a picture book this week and find one rhythmic building brick inside. Need inspiration? Try my Showdown Symphony lesson plan!
- Listen to “The Creative Act”: Grab the audiobook and put it on during your commute to remind yourself why you do what you do.
- Give Yourself Permission: It’s okay if a lesson flops. Every fail is just a “switcheroo” leading to a better idea!