This year we had the opportunity to interview Mrs. Cohen. Mrs. Cohen is the band teacher. She also teaches music classes for grade four and up but Mrs. Cohen isn’t just a teacher, she is a professional clarinet player and used to play in The Israeli Army Band for 2 years.
Q: How long have you been teaching?
A: I started teaching clarinet while I was still in the army and always enjoyed it. Throughout the years I also started conducting youth bands. I’ve been teaching more than 20 years now.
Q: Why did you start playing clarinet?
A: My music teacher in school told my parents I’m very musical and should go take some music lessons after school. In the conservatory they recommended clarinet. I didn’t even know what a clarinet is, back then…
Q: When did you start playing the clarinet?
A: Grade 5
Q: Do you know how to play any other instruments besides the clarinet?
A: I can play the piano and most of the wind instruments.
Q: Were you in an orchestra?
A: I used to play in the national symphonic band when I was in high school and in the army band during my military service.
Q: Is there a particular instrument that you enjoy playing more than others? If so, why that one?
A:As a clarinet player, I have a special connection to the instrument and feel it’s where I can express myself the best. But I also really enjoy the trombone! It’s so distinct in sound and technique, which keeps things interesting for me.
Q:Do you enjoy teaching your students?
A:Absolutely! I especially enjoy teaching students who show curiosity and a genuine desire to learn. But what I love the most is when a student who initially struggles or isn’t engaged starts to find interest and joy in learning.
Q:Do you feel like you have had an impact on the students you teach?
A: I do believe I’ve had a meaningful impact on some students, and I hope to continue to. My goal is for students to thrive not just musically but personally. I hope they feel my dedication to helping them grow into kind, capable, and resilient people.
Q:What is it like teaching four grades?
A:It’s definitely a challenge! At first, learning all the 250 names was hard enough, but now I’m focused on understanding each student individually, which is an even greater challenge. Still, I enjoy getting to know their unique personalities and learning styles.
Q:Do you feel like you have had an impact on the students you teach?
A: I do believe I’ve had a meaningful impact on some students, and I hope to continue to. My goal is for students to thrive not just musically but personally. I hope they feel my dedication to helping them grow into kind, capable, and resilient people.
Q:Is there a certain grade that you enjoy or find easier to teach?
A:Each grade brings something different to the table, and I really enjoy each in its own way. I find something unique to appreciate in every class.
Q: Do you feel particularly closer to the first junior band you taught in your first year here?
A:I truly enjoy seeing the excitement and enthusiasm that all junior band students bring! Watching them grow year after year is very rewarding, so while I feel connected to each group in different ways, I wouldn’t say I feel closer to any one group.
