Interview with William Kilgore, February 18, 2013

Partial Transcript: First of all, can you tell me when and why did you become a music teacher?

Segment Synopsis: Kilgore talks about choosing to teach middle school band as a way to make up for his own unsatisfying experience during those years as a student. He describes surviving the overwhelming first year on the job thanks to the mentorship from other teachers. He talks about administrative obligations comprising a large portion of his job. He talks about the pedagogical weaknesses he had during his early years. He talks about his positive experience in his music education program at the University of Georgia.

Keywords: Athens, Georgia; B.M.; Bachelor of Music - Music Education; EdD; Hoschton, Georgia; Master of Educational Leadership; UGA; University of Georgia; West Jackson Middle School; administration; band directors; festival; fundraising; high school; mentorship; methods; pedagogy; printed music; rhythm vocabulary; sheet music

Partial Transcript: Why have you stayed in teaching?

Segment Synopsis: Kilgore describes his passion for teaching music and how seeing his students succeed keeps him going. He talks about the value that music class has to offer students who are bored and those who struggle in other areas of school. He talks about the pride he feels when his students earn high scores at LGPE and when being recognized for his efforts. He talks about remaining optimistic when faced with the challenges of constant change and low budgets.

Keywords: All-State; GMEA; Georgia Music Educators Association; LGPE; Large Group Performance Evaluation; SBO Magazine; School Band and Orchestra Magazine; UGA; University of Georgia; administration; autism; budgets; middle school; music education

Partial Transcript: What are some of the funniest moments that you’ve experienced in the classroom?

Segment Synopsis: Kilgore talks about the value of embracing humor in the classroom. He talks about endearing himself to his students through his fun teaching style. He describes the lasting impression a teacher’s attention and compassion can have on students.

Keywords: Star Wars; classroom management; cymbals; middle school; music education; percussionists

Partial Transcript: How do you motivate your students?

Segment Synopsis: Kilgore talks about motivating students by encouraging competition and giving them something to look forward to. He talks about making the most of GMEA conferences and networking with teachers. He talks about his positive experiences of mentoring younger teachers. He describes the various lessons students have taught him as well as the importance of recruiting older students to help teach the younger ones.

Keywords: GMEA; Georgia Music Educators Association; Superior ratings; band directors; clarinet; clinics; competition; concerts; conferences; mentorship; music education; networking; pass-off system; pass-offs; playing tests; professional development; student teaching; “festival”