Teacher Feature: Amber Moss

• Amber Moss
• Posted 9/10/21
• 0 comments

Get to know our authors. In our  ”Teacher Feature,”  you will not only learn about our contributors’ professional endeavors but also get to know them as  humans  too.  Just like our readers – our authors are actively teaching in schools across the United States.

Amber Moss is a National Board Certified teacher in Hot Springs, Arkansas. She earned her degree from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas. Amber has taught in several districts throughout the state at various levels, from kindergarten to 12th-grade choir. She was named as a 2020 Grammy Music Educator award Semifinalist, as well as being named as a Quarter-finalist in 2021. She served on the ArkMEA board for eight years as Elementary Music Chairman, President-Elect, President, and Past-President. She has presented professional development workshops at the district, state, and national levels on various music education topics.  

Here are some other interesting facts we learned about Amber…

How did you end up becoming a music teacher?  

I actually wanted to be a pediatrician until the end of my junior year of high school. I then realized music came easily to me, and I was passionate about it as well. I changed my coursework, and the rest is history! I received a full scholarship to UCA and have never looked back.  

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education?  

Absolutely! Several teachers empowered me on my journey! Geneva Powers was one of my high school choir directors, and Rhonda Hawley, my junior high choir director. Both of these women gave me opportunities to educate others and push my musical abilities. I accompanied my junior high choirs. My piano teacher, Carolyn Neil, gave me the musical foundation I needed to be an incredible musician through music theory.  

What inspires you to share your experiences with other teachers?  

I truly believe we are stronger together. If I never share my knowledge with others, I’m not creating a strong musical foundation of advocacy! We have to support each other and give the gifts we have!  

What is your favorite music teaching moment?  

I always do a women empowerment workshop with my 7th-grade girls’ choir. This year was my favorite of all time because so many huge name musicians from all over the world zoomed in with my girls and gave life-changing lessons and advice. It was so much more than just music and singing!  

What has been the biggest surprise/revelation about being a music teacher? 

I believe in music for all. This means, not everyone likes the same kinds of music and appreciates experiencing music the same ways. When I switched my teaching to embrace all learning styles and gave opportunities for growth in music in all different facets, my music program exploded. I don’t just teach vocal music because I’m a vocalist. My students play, sing, dance, create, compose, listen, and perform. Music — it’s universal.   

How do you deal with stress?  

Yoga!!!!! If you’re not dealing with stress, please take the time to consider some type of physical activity. People who are constantly stressed have major health problems down the road. Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and journaling. Do the good work for yourself of getting enough sleep, physical activity, getting sunlight, having a strong support system, and good nutrition — drink water!  

Fun Facts About You?    

What is your favorite food?  

This is so hard! I love a good salad — but I also love anything Mexican or Italian or sushi. I’m pretty eclectic.  

Do you have any pets?  Tell us about them.  

Sam is our family dog. He’s a border collie and black lab mix and is the coolest rescue dog ever. He can jump higher than anything I’ve ever seen, and his tail never stops wagging. He’s the happiest dog, and we love him to pieces!  

What is your favorite style of music to listen to?   

I love all genres of music — I can’t just pick one! You’d probably laugh at my most recently played songs. There’s everything from Salt ‘n’ Pepa to Leslie Odom Jr., Surfaces to Dear Evan Hansen, Dave Matthews Band to Chantal Kreviazuk, and even some cello instrumental music! 

What is your favorite school-appropriate beverage — are you a cola or coffee drinker?  

Coffee is my love language. I also love drinking water.  

What is your favorite book?  

I can’t pick one — I just love reading!  

If you could be a superhero, who would you be and why?  

Oh, I would most definitely want to be Batman. He might not have superpowers, but he has all the cool gadgets and was constantly helping those in need because he was so financially stable.  

We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Amber! Check out her Music ConstructED articles below.