Music Achievement Council | April 2025
This month’s edition of More to Start, Fewer to Quit (MSFQ) tips is written by Don Stinson, Director of Bands, Joliet Central High School.
Recruiting and retaining students in music programs is an ongoing challenge, and keeping them engaged doesn’t just happen by accident. These three tips focus on leveraging testimonials for recruitment, building administrative support for retention, and using personalized achievement tracks to boost student success.
RECRUITMENT TIP: Leverage Word-of-Mouth
Last week, I tried a new restaurant. Not because of an ad, but because a friend recommended it (and it was great!). Word-of-mouth is the most powerful sales tool.
Apply the same principle to your music program. Ask current students and parents to share why they love being part of band or orchestra. Collect short testimonials – written or video – and share them in school newsletters, on social media, and during recruitment events. Have older students visit younger classes to talk about their experience. A personal recommendation is far more persuasive than any flyer or email. If you want to grow your program, get your biggest fans to spread the word. A freshmen one speaking to their former classmates has helped us “catch” a few kids going on from middle school to high school.
I’ve heard teachers say, “I shouldn’t have to invite my administration to my events. They should just be there.” That may be true, but administrators juggle countless responsibilities, and if music isn’t on their radar, it’s easy for them to overlook it.A great way to keep kids in your program is to make sure your administrators are fans of it. Invite them to concerts, recognize them in programs, and send updates about student achievements. If they see firsthand how music impacts students, they’re more likely to support your program when scheduling conflicts arise or during budget discussions. Make your program something they want to champion – not just something they approve. Some people call this “politicking.” I call this advocating for my students and ensuring the future of my program.
SUCCESS TIPS: Use Personalized Achievement Tracks
Give students ownership of their progress with Personalized Achievement Tracks. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, let students choose a path that fits their strengths and interests.
• Create Pathways: Offer tracks like “Soloist” (solo focus), “Mentor” (teaching younger students), or “Performer” (ensemble leadership).
• Let Students Choose: At the start of each semester, have students pick a track that excites them.
• Provide Custom Challenges: Each track includes unique milestones – like leading a sectional, performing a solo, or creating a tutorial video.
• Celebrate Achievements: Recognize progress in class, on a board, or at concerts.
When students set their own goals, they stay engaged and invested- not just in their instrument, but in their program.