As an educator, I do not solely strive to be a technician. Although I see technique as a vehicle via which a great many things are possible, I recognize that technique alone is not why students join music programs. In our programs, students gain a community and learn copious intangible life skills to navigate their academic and social careers. In my classroom, students will not only explore the notes on the page, but how to express what they mean in context of their individual experience. I am dedicated to helping students to discover their individual musical voices. Furthermore, I want my students’ mastery of knowledge and skills to move them to the discovery that their creativity is an asset for social activism. I wish to motivate my students to be productive members of society beyond the confines of their instrument. I want my students to be proud to extend the culture and lessons from our ensemble into their schools and broader communities.