Teacher Feature: Terri Lloyd

• Terri Lloyd
• Posted 12/14/20
• 0 comments

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

Hi, my name is Terri Lloyd. I am an elementary music teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience. I am currently teaching online elementary music classes for the Missouri Launch program. I am a member of the music staff at my church and perform with various community groups.  
 
Developing music literacy in the elementary grades in my mission. To further that mission, I am an active blogger and serve as a mentor to other elementary music teachers. I am an experienced curriculum writer with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music, a Master’s Degree in Education, and an Instructional Technology Certificate. Technology is a valuable tool to help develop music literacy skills. I create and provide music resources through Teachers Pay Teachers at my store, Frau Musik USA.  

Some other interesting facts we learned about Terri…

How did you end up becoming a music teacher? 

I grew up in a smaller rural area, but we had a VERY good and VERY dedicated band director. Mr. Schneider had a profound influence on me and helped to develop my love of instrumental music. My love of vocal music developed through my church. I sang in the children’s choir and took piano lessons from our choir director, Mrs. Farquhar. I also attended church camp every year, even through high school. This is where I developed a love of camp songs.

Did a teacher influence your decision to enter education? 

I went to college to major in biological sciences and work in a lab or hospital setting. However, I still found some time to enroll in a few music classes. During that first semester, the music faculty convinced me that music was my true calling, and I switched my major. Because I had a strong background in music theory, I was able to test out of the first semester, so I was not behind in the program. I would not have become a music teacher if it were not for those faculty members.

What inspires you to share your experiences with other teachers? 

In my first teaching positions, I was the only person teaching music at my level. I felt isolated. When I began teaching in a much larger school district, there was a support system of 11 elementary music teachers. We were able to share and learn from each other. Now, with so many quality music blogs, podcasts, and social media outlets, no one should ever feel isolated. All you need to do is reach out. There are MANY music teachers willing to help.

What is your favorite music teaching moment? 

Believe it or not, this is a TRUE story. One day in one of my kindergarten classes, a little girl just kept interrupting over and over. So, I had her go sit in the “safe seat” to help her remember to wait her turn to talk. She sat there quietly, watching and participating appropriately from afar. Near the end of class, she politely raised her hand. When I called on her, she stood and respectfully said, “Mrs. Lloyd, thank you for helping me learn to do the right thing.” This was from a kindergarten child! As important as music is, I believe most of what we teach in our classes is about so much more.

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

I have had several students tell me that I have influenced them in their decision to make music their careers. Since I teach elementary music and my contacts with my students are limited after fifth grade, that has been a surprise. I was even able to help one of my former students choose the college where she started her performance degree this fall.

How do you deal with stress? 

Music itself is a way to help relieve stress for me. Just singing or playing for myself brings me joy. But, I also NEED quiet time. I enjoying walking and just being outside.

Fun Facts About You?

What is your favorite food?

 Ice cream, for sure!

Do you have any pets? 

We have a dog. Hailey enjoys LOTS of walks with myself and my husband. 

What is your favorite style of music to listen to?  

I have a VERY eclectic playlist. It is often quite funny when I put my Spotify playlist on random play. Some of my favorites are rock, pop, show tunes, praise & worship, and folk music.

What is your favorite school appropriate beverage?

Diet Coke, but I have been cutting back. 

What is your favorite book? 

I have so many favorites, but if I have to pick one, I am going to say “The Passage” by Justin Cronin.

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

I would be Wonder Woman. Since I was little, I have always imagined what it would be like to be able to fly. Despite being afraid of heights, I went zip lining in the tree tops of the rain forest in Costa Rica. I cannot believe I did that and I will probably never do it again. I was terrified most of the time.

We hope you enjoyed getting to know Terri as much as we have.  Make sure to check out her article – 9 Ways to Use Storybooks in Elementary Music!