As a child I always had to carry my own violin case and now I make sure my own children carry their instruments. It instils a sense of ownership, responsibility, and pride. My JLPS students, even the littles, know how to get out and put away all of the instruments they learn to play in our music room.

One day I sang, “Pack it up, pack it up” to signal the end of class and now it’s a school-wide thing. They all sing it with me and are incredulous if I just say that it’s time to pack up. Weird how traditions start. I wish I’d chosen a more inspired tune…