Feeling Overwhelmed as a New Music Teacher? Here’s Your Back-to-School Checklist
Starting out as a music teacher is exciting…but let’s be real, it can also feel overwhelming. You’re juggling multiple grades, lesson prep, classroom management, and maybe even performances, and often, all at once.
If you’re nodding your head, you’re not alone. Every music teacher has felt this way at some point. The good news? You don’t have to do it all. Focusing on a few essentials will help you survive, and even enjoy the first months of the year.
Here’s a practical New Music Teacher Checklist you can keep by your desk.
Want your own printable version? Download it here!
1. Pick One Routine for Every Class
It’s tempting to reinvent the wheel, but you don’t need a brand-new plan for every grade, every day. Choose a simple, repeatable structure: greeting, warm-up, activity, wrap-up. When students know the rhythm of class, you can focus less on behavior and more on music-making.
- Do I have a consistent entry routine?
- Do I have one simple warm-up I can adapt across grades?
2. Start Small with Your Repertoire
You don’t need 50 songs in your back pocket. Choose 3-5 strong, versatile pieces that can work across multiple ages with small tweaks. Add more as you go.
- Do I have 3 songs ready for K–2?
- Do I have 3 songs ready for 3–5?
3. Create a “Quick Pivot” Folder
Every teacher has those days when the lesson plan flies out the window. Keep a folder (digital or physical) of ready-to-go activities: rhythm flashcards, movement games, or a quick listening activity. These will save your sanity when the unexpected happens. If you would like a few “quick wins” check out our latest blog post here.
- Do I have 2 rhythm games printed and ready to go?
- Do I have 1–2 listening pieces bookmarked?
4. Keep Assessments Simple
Quick, simple check-ins like an exit ticket rhythm clap are perfect in the beginning. You can add more detailed assessments later once routines are in place.
- Did I have a quick assessment tool ready?
5. Protect Your Planning Time
It’s easy to give away planning time to copies, emails, or hallway chats. Try blocking one small pocket of time each day for real planning (even 15 minutes counts). Guard it like gold.
- Did I block one quiet planning time this week?
6. Find One Mentor (Formal or Informal)
Having someone to text or stop by after a hard class can make all the difference. Look for a veteran teacher who remembers what it’s like to be new.
- Do I know who I can go to for a quick question or pep talk?
7. Give Yourself Permission to Rest
You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. Your students need a teacher who shows up human, not perfect. Pick one thing to leave undone today, and trust that you’ll circle back later.
- Did I choose one thing I’m not going to stress over today?
Final Word
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not failing—you’re just new. Every veteran teacher you admire has been there, too. Keep this checklist close, take one step at a time, and remember: mistakes are how we grow. You don’t need to be perfect to be a great music teacher.
Here’s one last tip: set an alarm for one minute and take a few deep breaths. That tiny pause can reset your whole day. I often do this with my classes at the very beginning, the very end…or both!
Download your FREE New Music Teacher Checklist and give yourself one less thing to worry about this year.
