The Art of Aspiring Teaching and Leadership

Unleashing the Potential of Your Performers

Written by one of the most prominent motivational speakers and student leadership experts in the music education world, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, The Art of Aspiring Teaching (and his associated works, such as The Art of Successful Teaching: A Blend of Content & Context) serves as a foundational text for building high-achieving, service-oriented music programs. The book explores how educators can cultivate intrinsic motivation, foster selfless student leadership, and maintain a lifelong passion for teaching.

Core Pedagogical Themes

• Service Leadership (Give-to-Get): Explores Dr. Tim’s core philosophy that true student leadership is not about power or status, but about providing selfless service and support to the ensemble members.
• The Power of Attitude: Practical advice on how maintaining a highly positive, enthusiastic, and empathetic attitude transforms the music rehearsal atmosphere and attracts more students to the program.
• Intrinsic Motivation vs. External Rewards: Strategies for guiding students to discover their own internal reasons for striving for excellence, shifting the focus away from contest trophies to personal and artistic growth.
• Constructive Communication: How to deliver critique, encourage struggling students, and build positive, supportive relationships with parents, administration, and colleagues.
• Sustaining Professional Passion: Guidance for veteran music educators to avoid burnout, reconnect with their initial love for music, and continuously seek professional growth.