Sonya Bangia

Philosophy

I believe that a music educator must provide a diverse and accessible music education to
help every student learn and grow. Throughout my musical journey, I’ve had many experiences,
and the most meaningful among them were those that I could connect to my background. There
were some settings where I felt detached from the music making, due to the lack of diversity of
repertoire and consideration. Looking back on my own path, I want to create a music education
that incorporates music from different cultures. I wish to be sensitive to the backgrounds my
students come from,and plan repertoire that serves the community they are surrounded by. This
will make it easier for all students to connect with music, which supports the identity they are
building for themselves.
When students feel like they belong in a setting, they are able to do more learning. They
will know that music is not reserved for one type of person, but something that is valuable for
everyone to create. This will inspire them to work hard at their musical skills. Coupled with
quality, empathetic instruction, they will be able to achieve their goals.
Music educators who bring their students a diverse musical education will serve all of
their students in so many ways. Playing pieces by diverse composers as well will expose
students, and therefore the community they play for, to valuable, new music which teaches and
challenges students with their craft. By starting varied programming at a young age, my students
will learn that not one type of music is superior, and all are equally valuable. There will be no
“other” music; it will all just be music. This mindset and being able to play all kinds of music
will prepare students for the professional music world if they choose to enter it, which is rapidly
changing. Playing all types of music will also help every student see themselves in music that
they can relate to, and be inspired to continue learning.
Most importantly, I am excited to make a music education accessible to all students. In
my teaching experience, I can see that each student brings something unique to the classroom. It
always makes me so happy to discover what that is, and even more so to help them reach their
musical potential. Music, like any other subject, is a vital part of education, which every student
deserves to take part in. Students also connect with each other through making music. If I can
encourage a positive, diverse classroom space for my students, they will feel like they belong.
They will understand the importance of celebrating each other's differences. They will enjoy
playing music, reach and exceed their goals, and feel at home in the musical community.