You arrived in this field because music matters and young people matter. You plan shows, rehearse long hours, troubleshoot logistics, and guide students through growth. But what if your own battery is running low—and you’re not even aware of it?
Taking time to intentionally invest in yourself is not extra; it’s foundational for staying effective, inspired, and present.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
- Researchers found only about 19% of music educators surveyed believe their current work-life balance is sustainable. (mmea.org)
- A study of high school band directors noted that improved rehearsal efficiency didn’t hurt performance outcomes—but did improve work-life balance and reduced burnout risk. (digitalcommons.liberty.edu)
- Long hours, constant demands, outdoor rehearsals (especially during marching season), and role-overlap (teacher, coach, performer, organizer) make the director’s job uniquely susceptible to stress, health issues, and fatigue. (files.eric.ed.gov)
So carving out time for yourself is not a luxury—it’s a strategic move for your career, your program, and your personal well-being.
What “Making Space for You” Really Involves
Here’s what I mean when I say “space”:
1. Mental & Emotional Recharge
Pull back from the constant pace. Build in times where you stop being on duty and just are.
- Let your mind wander.
- Reflect without a clipboard.
- Recognize when you’re stretched thin.
Studies show self-care among music educators is often neglected, even though it correlates with better well-being. (journals.sagepub.com)
2. Physical Health & Movement
You know the habits you ask your students to adopt—good posture, breathing, flexibility, endurance—they matter for you too.
Movement isn’t optional. It’s part of showing up well. Some directors report neck/shoulder fatigue, hearing issues, stress-related health concerns. (files.eric.ed.gov)
Even short, consistent micro-moves help more than waiting for “someday.”
3. Creative Renewal
You arrange, compose, design shows, rehearse, critique—all focused on others.
But what about making music just for you? Improvising. Exploring a new style. Dusting off your instrument.
Research around music-educator well-being highlights that aligning personal creative identity with professional role helps buffer against frustration. (digscholarship.unco.edu)
4. Defining Identity Beyond the Podium
You are not just “the director” or “the show designer.” You’re a person with interests, values, and life outside of band season.
Making space includes recognizing that you deserve time as “Evan the musician,” “Evan the human,” not just “Evan the educator.”
Practical Actions You Can Take This Week
Here are realistic steps you can implement right now:
- Schedule “me-time” in the calendar. Block 30-60 minutes this week that is non-negotiable—no rehearsal prep, no student issues. Could be walking, reading, writing a motif.
- Introduce micro-pauses during the day. After one class or rehearsal segment: pause 2 minutes, stretch, focus on breathing, or play one simple phrase on your instrument.
- Select one task to hand off or simplify. Ask: “What can I release so I trust myself better and conserve my energy?”
- Create a mini ritual to disconnect. Maybe: no email after 8 p.m., or the first 15 minutes in the morning are screen-free. These help mark transitions.
- Reconnect with your own musical spark. Choose a 15-minute session this week just for you: compose something short, improvise, or listen to music you wouldn’t normally.
- Link up with a peer. Find another director or composer you trust and agree to check in monthly about how you both are doing—not only what you’re directing, but how you’re feeling and growing.
What It Does for You—and for Your Program
- You’ll come to rehearsal more present and energized. Your students will notice.
- Your creativity will bounce back. That leads to fresher ideas and deeper connections.
- You model lifelong musicianship, self-care, and professional sustainability.
- By staying well, you stay longer. That continuity matters for your school, students, and community.
Reflective Prompt
Take five minutes and answer:
- What’s the one thing I did only for myself in the past month?
- What is one commitment I can make for me in the next two weeks?
- If I treat 30 minutes this week as sacred, what would I fill it with?
Write these down. Then block the time on your calendar.
Final Note
Your work matters enormously. The shows you lead, the students you teach—they’re all better when you’re better.
Creating space for yourself is not abandoning your mission; it’s strengthening it. You can continue to give out from a full cup—not a drained one.
About the Author
Evan VanDoren is a composer and arranger specializing in custom marching band music for schools, available at evanvandoren.com/marchingbandshows. He’s a committed educator, musician, and advocate for sustainable artistry in band programs.
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