November 9, 2026

When embarking on a new endeavor, it is natural to encounter initial difficulties and feel a sense of frustration. Whether it is learning to play a brass instrument or building model airplanes, students often expect immediate success. However, true progress takes time. It is important to recognize the predisposition to assign blame or make excuses, which can hinder their growth and impede their progress. By acknowledging these tendencies, students can break free from negative thought patterns and adopt a resilient mindset. Instead of allowing discouragement to take hold, young students need to approach brass instruments with unwavering dedication. Students need to feel emboldened so they can embrace the instrument and push beyond their perceived limitations. It is essential to understand that failure is an integral part of the path to achievement. Do not grant them the indulgence of discouragement as it only hampers their commitment and determination. Remind them why they embarked on this journey in the first place and help them muster the determination to persevere until their goals are reached. While it is natural for young musicians to admire talented individuals around them, avoiding comparison of those around them is imperative. Each student learns and progresses at their own pace. Remind them that this is their unique journey, setting personal goals and standards. Competing should only serve as self-motivation rather than self-deprecation. Opportunities abound for students seeking to expand their musical horizons. Have students take advantage of private lessons, attend concerts and shows, and immerse themselves in listening experiences. Students need to engage in conversations about their current musical endeavors and be open to new and interesting information. These interactions will undoubtedly enhance their knowledge and newly formed expertise. With your enrolled students, presenting them with the opportunity to audition for district or regional band events will most definitely broaden their scope of possibilities. If selected, they will have the opportunity to rehearse with some of the best players in their area, culminating in a memorable performance for them. Additionally, many school districts organize solo and ensemble festivals where professionals offer supportive and constructive feedback, giving your students an understanding of their progress relative to other students. This can be seen as a perfect opportunity to evaluate what the student can do better in terms of technical and musical proficiency. Music presents countless avenues for participation, regardless of age or skill level. Community bands and orchestras, brass quintets and casual jam sessions are just some of the settings where young students can showcase their passion. If existing opportunities in your community do not align with their interests, reach out to fellow musicians and use social networking platforms to connect with like-minded individuals who share their creative aspirations with the help of their parents. Uniting through music creates a timeless and profound sense of friendship. For your students considering studying music in college, seize every chance to allow them and aid them to participate in master classes, summer programs, and additional ensemble experiences. Speak with their private lesson teacher, involving them in their decision-making process, and college research. Come together as a team to help your students achieve their dream schools. Do not hesitate to seek their advice, as they possess valuable insights and can help you and your students avoid potential pitfalls based on their own experiences as well as your own. Moreover, draw upon your reputation and connections to open doors that may otherwise remain closed for them. A single call from you to a former college peer or colleague has the potential to reshape their entire career trajectory. Be sure to remind students of the possibilities of scholarship opportunities even if their academic performance in other subjects falls below their expectations. Many colleges offer generous scholarships to accomplished brass players. Have students apply to programs that ignite their passion, work with them to deliver a stellar audition, and let the institutions evaluate their potential. Even if your students do not plan to major in music, numerous opportunities exist to continue playing brass instruments in college. Students can use elective hours to participate in ensembles for non-majors, take private lessons, and enroll in courses that deepen their music appreciation while unveiling new dimensions in their musical journey. We need these students even if they are not professional musicians in the future; they are our future board members, patrons, donors, and champions of music in our communities.