Tag: writing
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The Invisible Act of Identity: Living Between the Parts of Who We Are
I remember the first time I attended an educational conference centered on the experiences of people of color. At first, it was jarring. I found myself reconciling my own lived experience and my proximity to African American culture with my identity as an Afro-Dominican man. I had always known who I was in these spaces,…
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The Invisible Act of Differentiation
A few weeks before I meet my students, I am already thinking about differentiation. I meet with parents and guardians, learn more about the students who will walk into my classroom, and begin to imagine what this particular group of musicians might sound like. One student may need more support to be successful, while another…
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The Invisible Act of Belonging: Creating a Classroom Where Students Can Take Risks
Four weeks before the school year begins, I am already thinking about classroom culture. I’m thinking about the music, of course. I’m thinking about repertoire, instrumentation, projects, performances, and the skills I want students to develop. But underneath all of those decisions is another set of questions: What kind of room do I want students…
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Musical Collaboration for Diversity and Inclusion: Professional Growth and Impact
My work with the adult community has seen significant growth and effectiveness through the power of collaboration with colleagues. The development of these working relationships and our joint efforts on projects, such as concerts and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (D.E.I.) programming, have not only improved my current work but also enriched my personal and professional…
