Your First Year as an Elementary Music Teacher

I have read this book three times, and have learned new ideas with each read. Dr. Paney places his focus on the necessary team-based relationships we create in our schools. This philosophy permeates the book and brings me joy as it aligns with everything I value. The checklists in each chapter are helpful summaries that remind the reader of the most salient points with action steps. The ideas are practical, authentic, and relate to almost any elementary music teaching situation. Dr. Paney spent years as a practicing music educator and knows the realities of the field, especially the all-important first year. Creative lesson plans, learning experiences, and sequencing are included. * Dr. Alice M. Hammel, Disabilities Specialist * Your First Year as an Elementary Music Teacher: A Practical Guide for New Educators is a very helpful resource for any new elementary music teacher. Dr. Paney has organized the book in a very clear way, focusing on organizational elements such as setting up a room effectively while also addressing ideas like repertoire selection and working as a colleague in a professional education setting. These are all critical components to success during the first year. In addition, the chapters related to assessment, putting programs together, and surviving a hard day would be uniquely beneficial to a young educator as they navigate their first teaching setting. * M. Gault, Professor of Music Education, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music; Program Director, Indiana University Children's Choir; Director, IU Summer Kodaly Institute *