Darla Hanley's Music Room
Creative Teaching for Students of Today (& Tomorrow) PK-8
Hi! I’m Darla, an experienced PK-12 music educator, college professor, and former Berklee College of Music Dean looking to connect with teachers, parents/caregivers, and others seeking to advance creative music making for today’s students—and their teachers. In Darla Hanley’s Music Room you will find teaching strategies, advice and teaching tips, playlists, and more.
Ready to Go
© 2025 Darla S. Hanley
Today’s post is all about action and being ready to go as we continue to enjoy the summer months but also begin preparing for the new school year.
Summer fun is the best. It’s a walk in the park, a day at the beach, and a nap on the hammock. Summer is a time to recharge so when we hit the ground in the fall, we are ready to engage and inspire students. It’s also a time to plan, and then strategically act.
What am I talking about? And what do you get to do? Try these 2 things:
Put Your Shoes On
Sometimes the act of—getting ready to go—changes how we feel and sets us up to get out there (lol). There are lots of things to consider when getting ready like: Where am I going? How will I get there? What will I do when I get there? How long will I be there? Do I need to bring anything? What am I wearing (lol)? Sure.
I called this section “put your shoes on” because I view this phrase as a frame that equates to readiness and preparation. When I “put my shoes on” I’m ready to step into a situation; I’ve selected the appropriate footwear for that experience; and I feel grounded. I’ve set myself up for what’s ahead.
As music teachers we “put our shoes on” to lead, demonstrate, inspire, guide, and assess students. At our best, we get ready for every student in every class period with every lesson plan, activity, and song. It’s a lot to navigate, indeed!
Alright, we all know that unexpected things happen just about every time we get out there (lol), but life—and music education—are exciting because of that! It’s the balance of preparation, being in a situation, and navigating the unexpected that changes how (and if) we act, right?
So, think about these questions:
How do we prepare for a situation?
No, really. Do we prepare in advance, or do we go-with-the-flow? Both ways are cool, but sometimes we need to consider which way to act in advance. These approaches are not the same and very likely yield different outcomes.
How do we prepare students for learning?
This question is all about getting students “ready to go” with their musical and creative shoes on (i.e., setting them up for each new activity, educational experience, and exciting opportunity to make music).
The idea of setting students up for success is fundamental to music teaching; everyone knows that. But the manner in which we “prepare” them impacts how they act, how they feel, and how they learn. Here are a few ways to think about setting the stage for student learning:
Ask guiding questions to get students to tell you what they think (and know) and use their answers as a bridge to connect to your learning targets;
Review prior learning in fun and playful ways (e.g., select songs to sing and play from a deck of songs-we-know cards; play musical games that require students to show what they know and can do);
Use visuals to spark recollection of prior music class content and as motivational tools to introduce new content and concepts;
And my personal favorite: Engage students to participate in informal learning where they think they are playing a game, or exploring instruments before moving to formal learning. This is the proven “sound before symbol” idea where students sing before reading music notation, for example. It works!
Take Action
Action is about doing. It’s a process that requires us to make an effort—to take steps. Think about the film Director who calls “action” to inform the actors when to begin performing the scene. Action is about getting started. Additionally, action usually includes doing something with a particular focus and goal. It’s about exertion and measures and may include the demonstration of initiative.
As teachers we take action on behalf of students when we advocate for education—and the educational process. We know quality education when we lead it—and students know when they receive it (or will later in life when they reflect on the rich educational experiences we shaped for them (lol)).
Music teachers take action and advocate for education all the time PLUS we advocate for the arts. We know the serious impact music, dance, visual art, and theater can make on students… and on us for that matter. This is real and ongoing work that requires strategy. That said,
What action have you taken to let others know about the amazing music education happening in your classroom?
I know this may feel like bragging, but it’s kinda the opposite. People need to know…
In my personal and professional experience, I’ve noticed how much people like to be part of (and support) things that are successful.
Think about the successes in your classroom (student highlights or special lessons or learning experiences that you incorporate in your teaching) and authentically weave them into conversations. I bet you’ll be surprised at how people respond with interest, positivity, and appreciation! Give it a try.
What action could you take to enhance your teaching skills? What’s stopping you?
Even “seasoned” educators need to learn and stay up with the times. Use this question as a prompt to consider a new pathway to grow and develop additional skills… and then do it (lol)!
And, for me, uncovering the “hidden” reasons that prevent me from doing something is always eye opening. These reasons require reflection—and honesty. Am I afraid of failure, too tired, or simply unmotivated? Do I see value in the XYZ? Do I see it as something I have to do—or get to do?
Final Thoughts
The new school year will begin before we know it! Let’s use the precious summer to relax and recharge—for sure. But also use this time to get ready for what’s ahead, and take actions that will make a difference in the classroom. Our students deserve that.
And I needed to add music today. Check out these shoe-themed tracks (lol):
🎵 Paulo Nutini “New Shoes” Link to Track on Spotify
🎵 Charlie Parker “My Little Suede Shoes” Link to Track on Spotify
🎵 David Bowie “Let’s Dance” Link to Track on Spotify