Change Your Attitude

Attitude is a very important thing, especially in a performance class. It allows for a strong sense of confidence to come through to the audience and to inspire those who wish to be on stage. Your attitude shows how you can personalize your talent and make it even stronger by adding your own personal touch. Mrs. F, my elementary school music teacher, taught md�q� much about attitude and confidence. She knew that if her students had a positive attitude, drive and confidence within themselves, that they would go far.

Mrs. F grew up in the area of the school, so she was able to see how the school had begun to deteriorate. She noticed how many of the teachers at the school did not want to be there. She knew that she was one of the only teachers that had truly cared about her students, and their success. Teaching in an inner-city school, wherd�o�ny of the students came from single-parent households, Mrs. F knew that if she provided the necessary encouragement as well as discipline, she could assist in the success of her students.

Every year, Mrs. F's chorus would sing at the citywide music choral presentation. Our school's chorus always seemed to be the best, and other schools wondered how that was possible. They would hear the name of the school, and always expect the worst. "Those kids at the school, wow! They seem to!�c�e about what they are doing. It's about time." This statement was something that was overheard and shared with the class. It made us realize that there were people impressed with us, year after year, and that they paid such close attention to our efforts.

Mrs. F knew that we had talent, it was just a matter of directing our energies to a more positive outlet. She made sure that not only were we successful in her class, but we carried our new attitude to all other classes and activiu�g�. It was not unusual to have an alumnus of the chorus visiting at every afternoon rehearsal. Mrs. F's magnetism had a strong hold on her student;s even after they graduated from high school, or made it all the way to college. Her presence in the lives of her students can be seen as their driving force. She was one of those teachers who would treat and love her students as her own; giving the discipline and encouragement that was needed for success. But most important, she taught us one of u�g�most valuable lessons that can not find in with just any curriculum. She taught us how to us and change our attitudes.

Thank You Mrs. F!

Jonathan M.