How to Increase Participation in Middle School Music Programs

It is a well-known fact that the brain undergoes rapid changes in the middle school years that directly affect behavior, learning and emotions. It is key to hone into this development to increase participation, especially in music. Middle school is a time of growth for all students, but everyone grows at a different pace. With the mix of brain activity and puberty, life for a middle-schooler can be hard.

Each day in middle school is different, and directors need to be prepared for the unexpected. Music can add calmness to any situation. It can also bring joy or excitement. Allowing movement in music can be relaxing. The environment in the middle school music room needs to be a space that meets many needs.

Middle school music is a great outlet for adolescent students. Promoting the music program will increase participation. When promoting the program, it is important to include all aspects. The initial promotion of music may need to be gimmicky, such as highlighting high schoolers who are in music.

Another idea would be a t-shirt that states “without the band, it is just a game” to promote the pep band. Promotion is important to get the students in the door; what happens after that is what will make them stay. Middle school is a place of impulsive words, actions and emotions. Making the music area a safe place will be a key component in increasing participation – “safe” as in everyone is welcome, belongs and feels successful.

Instant results are also a great way for “buy-in” from the students. The director needs to get the students active with music whether with an instrument or his or her voice right away. Creating a fun environment is a natural draw for any program. The ideal goal would be to make music on day one. Students will feel successful and will be proud.

As the beginning hook, create music that is familiar or popular. As time progresses, move into music that moves the soul such as something from Bach or Mozart. Music has a way of speaking to individuals. Hans Christian Anderson once said, “when words fail, music speaks.” Let the music be the draw for the students to relate. Music has a way of making people feel heard and wanting to belong. Exposure to all sorts of music will create an opportunity for each student to find his or her own niche.

Another angle is to allow for collaboration. Students who talk about music have the makings for a strong friendship. The atmosphere within a music program allows for a sense of community. Everyone needs to work together to create the desired sound. Giving students opportunities to perform puts validity in what they are doing.

Middle school students are dealing with many changes in their brains and bodies. One would expect there may be awkwardness in music. It is the job of the director to NOT highlight the awkwardness. If braces do not allow for trumpet playing, then maybe the drums are an option. If a young teenager’s voice is changing or not changing and squeaks, offer a maraca to play. Inclusion is the secret. Let them belong regardless of all the changes happening.

Music does not require you to be fast, strong or talented physically. It does allow for you to be yourself, gives an opportunity to contribute to a larger meaning and to belong. With all the changes happening in a middle school student’s brain, music can create some normalness. It brings calm in a dramatic storm. It brings joy when life is difficult. It allows for students to be validated. Promoting music is important, but word of mouth of what happens inside the door will ultimately increase participation.

Lisa Myran-Schutte, CMAA, has been an athletic/activities director at several schools in Minnesota, including Houston High School and Pine Island High School. She is a member of the High School Today Publications Committee. She can be reached at lisa.myran.schutte@pineisland.k12.mn.us.