Robert Kreutz has a wealth of knowledge from many years of teaching in the Thompson School District and performing in prestigious orchestras in Colorado and Wyoming. Kreutz holds a Bachelor of Music Education ('84) from Colorado State University and a Master of Music in Conducting from the University of Denver. As a musician who has seen it all, the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance is lucky to have him as a faculty member teaching string pedagogy. Kreutz took some time to explore his thoughts on how the music education vocation has changed over the years.
How has teaching changed in the last 15 years?
The importance of social media in education has changed access for students and teachers alike. Resources for in-class use, such as YouTube, publisher recordings, and audio sources, have made the quest for more information easy. It has revolutionized the input that teachers can have into the classroom, and in many cases, immediately change student perceptions.
How have students changed in the last 15 years?
Students are more aware of events outside of the school more quickly than in the past. They are, at times, more aware of local, national, and world events than the teacher, as their phones are always on them. Students are more apt now to use their phones as their main computers in the classroom, and some do take notes on their phones (or that is what they are telling me)!
What opportunities do you wish you would have had at CSU?
MSOE (Middle School Outreach Ensembles) is a fantastic opportunity for students here at CSU to get a real opportunity to teach with instant and valid input from the middle school students, their colleagues, Dr. Johnson, and master educators from the region. I wish I had been offered that opportunity because it would have given me an in-depth understanding of how the middle school child’s mind works before student teaching.
I am also really pleased that students leaving the CSU Music Department have so many opportunities to grow through the support offered by our music ed faculty, the faculty at the education building, and the university coaches. I enjoy being a university coach and helping students during their experiences. I was supported by CSU when I student taught, but students who graduate from CSU now really are empowered and confident because of the support they receive.
How has teaching changed since the COVID-19 pandemic? For better or for worse?
For the first semester back, Fall 2020, things were tenuous at best, but the students and faculty pulled together to make it work, even though there were times when we had to scramble. This past semester seemed the most normal since Spring 2020, yet there still were days when I wondered if the wheels might come off.
I noticed at the CMEA music convention that there is renewed energy among the music teachers. Folks are talking about new ideas and trying approaches that might challenge the students again. The vibe is positive and palpable, finally!
What are some of the biggest challenges future teachers face?
Teachers need to know that students are more educated on social interactions yet still need our guidance. Many students don’t feel safe at school. We need to assure them that the school building at every level is a safe place to be.
How do you think this generation of teachers is transformative?
We can use our resources wisely, get outside our boxes, listen to others, and find more widely transformative solutions for our students. Since research is so much easier now, we can almost instantly find answers to student questions. So, no question should be left unanswered.
What makes a good educator?
A great teacher inspires students and creates an environment where students learn to think for themselves.
What challenges are students and future teachers facing by way of mental health?
With so many influential sources at students’ fingertips, students need to learn to walk away from negative ones and push to find those that uplift them.
Why do you think music is important for mental health?
Music gives us an escape from the realities that we face. It provides the opportunity to move away from our lives and focus on something as a group that can yield very immediate and positive results.
What is an inspirational story about a student(s) who has overcome obstacles or made a difference?
Many times, over the years, I have been stopped by a student or parent at the grocery store who thanked me for teaching them. Those conversations are the ones that stick with me because it was a small way to remind me that what I do every day for students does matter and that, even though they don’t always say anything, they do appreciate the effort that I make for them.
What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned from your students?
Keep trying, don’t give up!
Who was your greatest teacher, and why?
I learned the most from four influences: My father, Robert E. Kreutz, taught me at an early age the value of great music and to appreciate it well. Larry Wallace at Wheat Ridge High School taught me disciplined excellence in music. Wilfred Schwartz, former orchestra director here at CSU, showed me that I could conduct and encouraged me to work hard on that skill. Steve McNeal, my mentor teacher, showed me the importance of humor as a teacher while pushing kids far beyond their expectations.
Are there any quotes or words of wisdom you cling to as an educator?
Be dedicated to your craft, and the results will come, but be a good listener so you don’t get stuck in a rut. Always look to find a new rock to turn over.
What is the best way to become an amazing strings educator?
Be patient, but be firm. Learn to listen into the heart of the ensemble in front of you with the intention of developing a strong ear, then in order to find a solution to fix problems. Don’t forget to teach the students how to think musically and be their own musicians rather than always following the printed score rules.
What advice would you give to 20-year-old Bob?
Music education is not about bringing great music to kids, it’s about bringing great kids to music!
What gives you hope?
My faith, family, friends, relationships, pet Chloe, and the knowledge that there are trout in the stream less than two miles from my home!