<p>Hello everyone! I'm currently a senior percussionist (and 2nd-year pianist) in high school, working hard in preparation for my audition into the in-state universities' music schools, hopefully to major in Music Education. I truly have a passion for teaching people music, and have had many chances to do so in my years of high school. I really want to be a high school band director, and I don't mind that the pay isn't anything to brag about; I just want to do something I love doing!</p>
<p>But anyway, I was just wondering if anyone could give me some insight as to what kinds of questions a music school will ask in an interview? It's not like I need to prepare for the interview or anything, but I've just been curious, and was wondering if anyone could provide any feedback. Thanks! =)</p>
<p>If you can communicate this, I think you’ll probably do great! My understanding is that they’re looking for people with this kind of passion and want to screen out the people who really want to be performance majors but are majoring/double majoring in Music Ed because they think it’s a safer bet. Of course, you’ll put together examples of those experiences - specifics work much better. </p>
<p>(You always need to prepare for an interview! Asking about the kinds of questions here is a good idea … and then you can brainstorm some answers so that when you’re sitting there a little bit nervous, you can easily sound impressive.)</p>
<p>Random: They’ll ask about your experiences with teaching children so your passion and experience will be good talking points. I think I recall that you worked with some summer music camps so be prepared to talk about those experiences, etc. They’ll also be interested in how many other instruments you play. So piano is an excellent 2nd. Any vocal experience including choirs: church or school would help too. Good luck and ace your audition.</p>
<p>Some possible questions to practice on (but remember: expect the unexpected–you sound like you are coming from the right place in terms of motivation, so I think you will be fine with the unexpected):</p>
<p>Why do you want to be a music teacher? Describe experiences that you have had teaching children. What qualities do you posses that you believe would make you a good band teacher? Tell us a bit about yourself. What other schools are you applying to? Why are you applying to this university? What musical activities have you been involved in? What makes a good music teacher?</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for the help so far! I am always impressed by the consistent amount of will to help that can be found on these boards, and am very thankful for it. Yeah, I will ponder some of the things you guys have said and take some mental notes. Thankfully I can answer most of the aforementioned questions right off the bat! But in case I get nervous, it will be nice to feel confident in some of the unexpected ones. </p>