We had the opportunity to interview the spouses of GPG Music staff, all music educators in their own right, as part of Women's History Month. The interview questions were about love of music as a career path, challenges as women in a mostly male-identifying dominated field and rewards. Following is our conversation with Natalia Tomasello, band director at Alder Creek Middle School in Truckee, Calif. and spouse of Spencer Hannibal-Smith, GPG Music director of operations.
Why a music education path?
Music has always been something I have been drawn to. I have always felt a strong connection with making music, it is a part of my life. It is who I am. I am surrounded by it in so many ways. Ultimately, I love it so much because it brings me joy. But when it comes to music education, it’s not only about making wonderful music. It’s also about all the other things that make it so essential for our students. Music challenges us to work as a team, encourages self - discipline, gives students an emotional outlet in order to show expression, music gives them a space to be creative, music shows that everyone is important, has a purpose and is always needed. I was the student that went to school for band. If band class was ever taken away, I do not think I would have a place in school. Most days, it gave me a reason to show up to school. I know that this is the same for others. Music gives students a sense of community, a sense of belonging.
The practice of music making provides structure for our students, something that most developing children need every day. When students know that they are expected to show up on time, set up their instruments and be prepared to play, they find comfort in that kind of structure. Through music, students learn how to work together and communicate with one another. Students learn how to manage time whether it’s balancing music with school, or music with sports, school and other extracurricular activities. They learn the importance of communicating with trusted adults, teachers and coaches.
I teach music, but I also teach through music.
What have been your best experiences:
What challenges have you faced being female in this industry
In my career and in my college career, I faced some challenges being female. I feel that when put in a position of leadership (drum major, graduate assistant for FS, teaching associate for FS, teacher (Firebaugh MS, McQueen HS, Alder Creek MS, President of the Board of Donner Mine Music Camp), there are times when you have to be extra cautious with how you say things. Some may be intimidated while others just think you're being extra rude (aka ‘you know what’). As I have grown as a teacher and leader, I have found that being calm and almost ‘reactionless’ has given me opportunities to move forward in my career with very little ridicule or judgment. I feel that I have always worked hard for what I wanted. But I also do feel that even though my efforts go above and beyond, to society, it just looks…normal. I cannot slip. If I do, I will be ridiculed. Usually if a male band director were to slip up, people don't notice or they think it’s normal…or we just laugh it off.
Now: In my current job, I am an equal. The majority of our teaching staff is female, and the minority is male. I am usually never questioned and I feel that I am trusted in my position as a music teacher.
Then: when at FMS and MCQ I felt that I was living with a male ghost in the room. For both jobs, I took the position after a male teacher. In both jobs, I was questioned about my age, capability and success in school. I really felt that every step of the way, I had to prove myself. Any missteps were unacceptable. I had to prove myself to my students, parents, colleagues, and community members. I would hear things like: who are you? Oh, you're the band director? Really? Wow..Aren’t you too young for this kind of job? - McQ Are you sure she has her teaching license?
My focus now: Not gendering instruments, being open to change, recognizing our history and doing my best to grow culturally within my teaching style and what curriculum I teach. Lifting up all students in music regardless of their gender identity.