Percussionist BD here.

My first year, I was by myself at a middle school (Don’t recommend that).

my second year, I took an assistant position at a small school, starting off as a “percussion specialist” that also dabbled in a few wind beginner classes and co-directing non-varsity bands. Eventually, my situation allowed me to transition to more of a band director role as my colleagues were so helpful in mentoring me in wind/band pedagogy.

It wasn’t until I took my current job as a middle school head director that I really had to knuckle down in my learning, particularly with beginners. Luckily, I had some awesome experiences with general band directing that allowed me to keep that element going while digging into the nitty-gritty of teaching beginners.

Going back to my first statement, I don’t recommend being an only director as a first year teacher period, but especially as a percussionist. Find a team that is willing to mentor you and help set you up for success for the route you want to go!

Kyle Billett