When you come out of college as a new band teacher, it's easy to be idealistic and think you know it all. Adjusting this attitude to the real world can be difficult. There are many challenges that have nothing to do with teaching and learning music.

Rather than struggle for three to five years reinventing the wheel, learn from the older teachers. The support, encouragement and resources of those who have traveled before you can make a huge difference.

Your school system will not make these connections for you. Take the initiative and get in touch with your state's Music Educators Association (MEA). They can connect you with your local area associations, and tell you what state resources are available. There might be experienced directors not far from where you live. Introduce yourself and invite them to rehearsals.

Study what these veterans have been doing over the course of their career. Use them as a model to create a formula that works for your own improvement. There's no need to follow them exactly -- bring your own new ideas, thoughts and technologies into the mix. Veterans understand the principles and are looking for ways to improve themselves.

They also want to help the next generation along. Don't assume directors with huge programs are looking down on you or hoping you'll leave them alone. Many of them will move mountains for you if you ask.

Coming in two weeks: What's Adjudication All About?

MENC member and Band Mentor Ron Meers contributed to this article.

-- Paul Fergus, May 9, 2008, © MENC: The National Association for Music Education (www.menc.org)