When my teaching is inspired, I motivate middle school students to achieve excellence and reach their highest potential. This photo was taken of my Middle School Cadet Drumline, who was named FIRST PLACE in our State and Regional Competitions! My students performed our show, “Under the Big Top,” and committed to three after-school practices each week, for eighteen weeks! My students also gave up Saturdays to rehearse, compete, or perform their show for varied audiences across the state! This is a group of 6th through 8th grade musicians, experiencing musical excellence and personal achievement at the highest level! Each student musician committed to learning, practicing, rehearsing, and performing their own individual part. Each individual student had to learn their part because they were responsible for the collective success of the ensemble. Students must learn the qualities of leadership and responsibility, and many of my students accepted the challenge to lead their younger peers and guide them through the first year! The Drumline has become an integral part of our school, and many community organizations continue to reach out to our ensemble to perform at surrounding community events! These students have dedicated themselves to a one of a kind ensemble, and are eager to share music and get their peers excited about music! When my teaching is inspired, I lead my students to achieve great success and provide them with invaluable experiences and life lessons – all through the love of music we share!