Back to School: The Next Beginning

Each thing you learn is not the end, but the beginning of the next possibility. 

Art —and life— is a verb, a constantly evolving and changing expression. The act of creation is what moves things forward and keeps them perpetually fresh and rejuvenated.  Whether learning a piece of music or considering how to plan a class, developing the habit of asking “How else can we do this?” leads to the excitement and surprise of the creative act. 

Schools that thrive on answers often miss the opening to the next question. Success is measured by how neatly stacked all the pre-packaged checklists are, documented on report cards no one will ever ask to see again. But to combine the excitement of first exposure with the pleasure of technical mastery and clear understanding with finding one's own voice in blending technique, intellect, heart and imagination—well, that's a lifelong discipline that will serve and refresh us our whole lives. 

Teachers, please keep this in mind when those kids come through your doors! For their happiness, your happiness and a world begging for new possibilities.