More to Start Fewer to Quit - Issue 34
- leslie051
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
This edition of the More to Start, Fewer to Quit (MSFQ) tips is written by Edward F. Protzman, Assistant Professor of Music Education and Director of Bands, Portland State University.
RECRUITMENT
Everyone can benefit. When recruiting, our focus is often on increasing student participation to sustain and grow our programs. However, we can add deeper meaning and broader impact by viewing recruitment as a form of service to the community. By offering our time, resources, and musical talents beyond program-centered activities, we highlight the band’s value within both the school and the wider community.
Bands can make a positive impact in many ways, such as:
Hosting a food donation drive
Sponsoring a community cleanup day
Performing for local groups celebrating achievements
Raising funds for a local nonprofit organization
Through acts of service, we not only give back but also elevate the visibility and value of our programs in the eyes of the community and future band families.
RETENTION TIP
The power of a note. We all understand the value of a whole note, half note, or quarter note—but we sometimes overlook the power of a personal note. Do your students know their value to the band program, both as musicians and as individuals? While students selected for honor bands, leadership roles, or solo performances may clearly see their contributions, what about the others? More importantly, do all students know how their personality, work ethic, positivity, and dedication enhance the overall environment of the program?
As the school year comes to a close, consider sending a brief email or written note to each student and their parents or guardians, highlighting a few ways that the student has contributed to the program. How have they grown? How has their attitude and commitment made a difference? A great way to do this is putting a short note on their stand at the final concert. A simple, sincere message of appreciation can strengthen their connection to the band in a meaningful way. People are far more likely to invest in programs where they feel seen, valued, and appreciated for who they are.
SUCCESS TIP
Reverse engineer the school year. As festival and concert seasons come to a close, now is a great time to reflect on the successes and challenges your program experienced throughout the year. A valuable activity is to work in reverse—begin by listening to your final concert or festival performance. Ask yourself: what would a clinician or trusted colleague identify as your ensemble’s strengths and areas for growth? Make a list of the strategies, resources, or changes that could have better supported your students’ musical development.
As you think back through the year, consider how those reflections can inform your planning for next fall. Starting the new year with these insights in mind will help you build on what worked and improve where needed.
Do not limit your reflection to musical and performance concepts. Ask yourself what were the victories and challenges with travel, boosters, budgets, logistics, faculty, and administration. Use these lists during the summer to plan a more successful and rewarding start and finish to next year.
Edward F. Protzman, DME (he/him/his)
Director of Bands
Assistant Professor of Music Education
School of Music & Theater
Portland State University
