You Are An Influencer

During this stressful time of year when the students might not all be quite as motivated as they ought to be (Heck, you yourself may not be quite as motivated as you want to be!), I send you the reminder that you are making a difference! The way you care for - and speak to - your students daily is impacting their life. With that in mind, I have a quick story that I think may resonate with you. At the end, I've included an excellent resource for those of you who lead jazz programs. Regardless of what you teach, however, this story is for all of you!

At the Missouri Music Educators Association Annual Conference & Clinics a few weeks ago, I ran into a man who had quite an impact on me as a student. Dr. Michael (Mike) Parkinson certainly left his mark on my journey. Each year, Mike worked with our high school jazz band as we prepared for competitions. He also hosted the jazz camp I attended each summer at University of Missouri - Kansas City. So, while he wasn't my band director nor my private teacher, he was someone I saw regularly who later became a trusted resource for me as a young teacher.

During Jazz History classes at those UMKC camps, he taught us about Billie Holiday's tragic life and how she created amazing works of art in spite of her pain. We learned to listen for Charles Mingus' multi-cultural roots in his music, which was rich with unique textures and grooves that challenged our ears and our minds. There were all sorts of details shared about musicians, but one thing he said still resonates with me to this day. While talking about genres of music, he looked out at our class one day and simply said, "Ya know, there are only two types of music - Good and Bad." We all sat quietly, looked at one another, then chuckled. "It's as simple as that," he said. "There are examples of good and bad in every genre." That statement blew my 14-year old mind, and I have yet to find any evidence to contradict it.

Twenty five years later, I have repeated that lesson to countless students, family members, friends, fellow educators - anyone who I ever hear claim "I don't like (insert genre) music!" It catches them off guard, makes them laugh, and makes them think. Try it the next time you hear a student say "rap sucks" or "country is lame" or "classical music is boring". You may open their mind in a way that it will never be closed again!

So, think about it. An educator I respected, but only saw a few days each year, taught me a lesson that changed my entire frame of reference. How much more, then, are you impacting the students you see on a daily basis? What an awesome opportunity that is!

You can find a bio for Dr. Parkinson here. He is moving back to the KC area soon! Reach out to Mike and bring him out for a clinic. You will love him!

For years, Dr. Parkinson has produced a meticulously curated list of pieces for all levels of jazz bands to perform. He has graciously allowed Palen Music to publish a PDF at the link below. This document is not for sale. It is only available to be distributed AT NO CHARGE, so please feel free to share it with colleagues with that information. Enjoy it!