🎶 Secrets to End-of-School Success for Choir Directors…
It’s almost 4th quarter in my school district, which means the countdown to summer is on! ☀️ But before we pack up our choir folders and enjoy a well-earned break, there are still several weeks crammed full of performances, paperwork, and preparations for next year. 🎤
After teaching for over 21 years, I’ve learned that preparing early and staying organized is the key to staying ahead of my workload. Plus, putting in extra effort now makes for a smoother start in August! (And a less stressful end of summer.)
Here are 7 tips to keep everything on track as the year comes to a close.
1️⃣ Plan Next Year’s Concerts Now 📅
If this year’s concert dates worked well, check for corresponding dates next year.
Avoid athletic conflicts by collaborating with your Athletic Director and coaches.
Get your choir events on the district calendar early to prevent scheduling issues.
Don’t forget to send your students home for the summer with all of next year’s concert and performances dates.
2️⃣ Organize Your Music Library 🎼
Collect and inventory all sheet music.
Sort, file, and return borrowed copies.
Determine what needs to be reordered or replaced for next year.
If you already know next year’s repertoire, get it ready now!
Ask students to help with numbering and organizing music for next year. The more that is done now, means less work in the fall!
3️⃣ Assess and Reflect on the Year 🔍
Take notes on what worked well and what could be improved.
Gather student and parent feedback with a simple end-of-year survey.
Recognize student achievements with awards, certificates, or a celebration.
Consider making “To Do” lists for next year. Organize it by month or event. Write it down now so you aren’t worrying about it over the summer.
4️⃣ Prepare for Auditions and Next Year’s Roster 🎤
Consider holding auditions this spring for next year’s ensembles.
Plan how you will do voice placements in the fall.
Develop a recruitment plan to encourage new students to join! (Let student’s offer ideas!)
5️⃣ Clean and Organize Your Classroom and Office 🏫
Declutter your desk, rehearsal spaces, and storage areas (PS-Students love to help! 🙌).
Label and file important materials for easy access next year.
Make a supply list now to avoid last-minute scrambling in the fall.
6️⃣ Wrap Up Financial and Administrative Tasks 💰
Spend any leftover budget money (Does this even exist?!? 🤣).
Complete your budget report and track spending requests for next year.
Close out booster club or parent organization financial matters.
7️⃣ Schedule Fun Choir Bonding Activities to Celebrate a Successful Year! 🎉
Need a time filler post- concert that is a BLAST?!?! Try a Music Olympic Competition!
Organize a singing game day (or week) and try these choir favorites: Finish the Lyrics or Sing or Dare
Looking for a week-long music activity that keeps everyone engaged? Try my Write your Own One-Act Musical!
🎶Stay Organized and Enjoy the Moments!
The end of the school year can feel like a whirlwind, but staying organized now means you’ll have more time to enjoy these final weeks with your students.
Take a deep breath, soak in the music, and celebrate all the hard work you and your choir have put in this year. The paperwork and planning will get done—but the memories you create with your students will last far longer. Here’s to a strong finish and a smooth transition into summer! ☀️🎶💙
Happy Singing! 🎶
