Thank You, Teachers!

Our teachers have shaped our lives and helped make us who we are today. Read our associates’ stories and let a teacher in your life know how important they are!

Now more than ever, our teachers are going above and beyond to reach every student. Whether through virtual classrooms, distance learning, online activities, and more, teachers make a difference for their students. We invite you to share your stories about teachers who made a difference for you and let them know how important they are! Tell us about a favorite teacher by sharing your story on social media. Make sure to tag us at West Music and use the hashtags #westmusicteacherappreciation #musicteachersmakeadifference and #2020teacherappreciation.

I have had so many music teachers that have had a great impact on my development. My first exposure to Orff was with Miss Christy Curry. She showed me how much fun and focus could come from working in an ensemble and she is still teaching locally today. It is an incredible treat to know Christy Curry now as an adult and peer as she shared and inspired me at the beginning of my musical journey. – Ryan

My childhood piano teacher, Mrs. Edelbrock, came to our house for my piano lessons. She also happened to be an amazing baker. She often made me a deal: if I learned a new song, she would help me bake a new flavor of cake. To this day music and cooking are my two favorite ways to spend time! – Melissa

Being a female percussionist is never an easy job. I’ve had many wonderful teachers but kudos to Mr. Rob James for taking a chance on a novice percussionist. With his guidance I gained the courage and skills to be more. I’ve dedicated my life to making music and now helping others make music. I consider this paying it forward. – Tereasa

My percussion instructor Stan Dahl really made me feel at home when I first got to college. Working with him and playing in the Steel Drum Band was the best part of my collegiate experience. He made me a better musician, a better leader, and helped me get started with my career at West Music. – Alex

My high school history teacher, Mrs. White, recognized my interest in history and leadership potential and was able to nurture those skills to further my studies. She nominated me for a Citizenship Award and boosted my confidence and active participation which carried over into a succesfull and fulfilling career. Thank you Mrs. White!! – Sam

Paul McNally started me on trumpet in 5th grade and was my band director 5th-6th grades and all through high school. When I wanted to quit after 6th grade (and in 9th grade) because I was struggling, he helped convince me to play for “one more year”. I now play in 2 bands with him and call him my friend! – Beth

Scroll Through These Images to See Pictures of Our Early Years!

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Despite the fact that the majority of my education has been Literature related, I have to give credit to my high school choir teachers – Steve Bowen, Patti LaJoye, and Melissa Sayles – for teaching me my favorite second language: music. They gave me a place to belong in high school and beyond. 😊 – Samantha

As a senior at Madill High in Oklahoma, I had a full schedule as a student, band member, and club musician (and a job at the Pizza place). It was difficult at best to keep all the plates spinning. If it hadn’t been for the support from my band director, Jim Clemons, I was probably a prime candidate for leaving before graduation. Mr. Clemons kept me grounded, mentored me, and even presented me the John Philip Sousa award at our very last concert. – Randy

A teacher who made a difference in my life was Mr. Lynn Thompson. He was my private vocal instructor during my years in college. He not only helped me improve my talents as a musician, but he also helped drive my love of music in all forms. He and I have been close friends ever since. He even officiated my wedding! – Jordan

Grade school music class in the 1960’s: My general music teachers, Miss Malik and Mrs Johnson, shared their love of music. For me, these lessons began the spark for my lifelong music journey. – Cathi

A teacher that made an impact on my life is my high school orchestra teacher, Mrs. Edgel. She is an amazing leader and a great conductor. She worked hard to make sure we were not just playing the music, but understanding the music theory and principles behind what we were playing. – Rachelle

In junior high band I started on snare, but wasn’t coordinated enough to both march and play. When concert band season came, our director asked if anyone played bass guitar. I had an electric bass at home and eagerly raised my hand (“this is my moment!”). I showed up the next day, bass in hand, and saw sheet music to “Mack the Knife” with a sticky note attached that read, “learn this.” At that moment I realized that I did not, in fact, play bass. But Mr. Seymour just chuckled and said, “ alright, let’s get started.” I haven’t put the bass down since. – Adam H

I started studying music when I was about 4 years old. Mr. Johnathan Peterson taught me that working hard was important, but you can also have fun while working hard. I loved every minute of my orchestra class. I’ve carried that with me, striving to approach every lesson with my students with the thought “how can I make this lesson fun?” – Signe

My childhood piano teacher, Du Huang, has made a huge impact on me musically. I took piano lessons from him for years, and although I didn’t realize it at the time, his teachings helped build a lifelong musical foundation that’s helped me to learn other instruments and pursue my own musical endeavors. I’ll always be grateful for that! – Zack

My high school accounting and business teacher, Mary Farell, had a big impact on me and the direction I would take in my life. She also headed up our student-worker program which partnered with area businesses to give students a taste of real-world jobs. My first job with West Music was as a student-worker! – Jeanna

My high school band director and private lesson instructor taught me to be responsible and active in my learning and goal setting. He had high expectations, but was there to provide the stepping stones to reach them. When I work with musicians now, I can’t help but try to replicate those lessons. Except the bad jokes – I’ll let Mr. Kramer keep those. – Jessica

As a college music major, my voice teacher was the only vocal instructor I ever had who didn’t just say “oh yay! that sounds good, keep going.” He would interrupt, having me practice it until I got it right. That was exactly what I needed. He cared enough about improving my skills to yell at me, in a completely professional mentor-like way. His instruction not only helped my skills but also helped me become a more confident woman. Thank you, Dan! – Stephanie

My cooperating teacher, Ruth Seim, during student teaching had a major impact on my life. She shared with me her love of teaching and caring for her students and encouraged me to develop my teaching skills that are with me today. She was my teacher for life. – Judy

It is hard for me to think of just one teacher who had an impact on my life because there are so many who come to mind. Music teachers from Mrs. Gray in elementary to Stan Dahl in college inspired my passion for music. Each of them played an important part in helping me become the person that I am today. – Jeremy