Jennifer snodgrass

Director of School of Music at Middle TN State University. I love conversations about pedagogy and am committed to work/life balance.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@garrt This is the 2nd fatal heart attack I have heard about in the music academic world in 24 hours. I had my own heart scare in April and had to readjust a few things in my life. When they were taking me away in the ambulance I said, “but I have a meeting.” So so sad.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@zachlloydMT @KenBain1 your name came up several times at our Pedagogy conference! Such an inspiration:)

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

It’s been 3 years since Contemporary musicianship, 2nd ed. was released . There’s several typos and errors I want to fix immediately for a reprint. If you are an adopter, I would love to know what you have found. [email protected] #makeitright

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

Thirteen months ago I embarked on a whole new journey as a director for a growing School of Music. I have kept a list of all the things that have worked for me and also some of the realities. This is that list. https://t.co/bVlgEkWQFO

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@alyssa_barna @artsongsteve So excited for this!

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

It’s not easy and there are hard conversations, but trust and respect go a very long way. I’m so grateful to be in this role and learning every day. #somuchreflection

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

I’m finishing up my 1st year as a director of a growing School of Music. I’m writing for @insidehighered about what I’ve learned, but for now I have 1 thing. Gaining trust from your faculty takes time and listening. When you have that gift of trust, the rest falls into place.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@zachlloydMT Nothing better than a good float.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

These next few weeks are difficult for academia….for students, faculty, and administrators. Practice kindness. Hold the line. Say thank you. Say you are sorry. Give some praise. Accept some praise. Be quiet and listen. Speak up and share your thoughts. #comeonmay

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@zachlloydMT Seriosuly, what is up with all the red circles? Such great memories of this!

[Lipscomb's George Shinn CEA @LipscombCEA]

Today Cody Fry's music video for "I Hear a Symphony" will premiere on VEVO/Youtube. Cody asked the Lipscomb Chamber Orchestra and alumni, and Prof. Ben Blasko (trumpet), Prof. Simon Yeh (Bass Clarinet), and Prof. Neil Konouchi (tuba) to be the orchestra for this video. So cool!

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

To all my former students looking for grad programs or an academic job. To the junior faculty who constantly encourage me to reevaluate what matters. I know the next 2-3 months are so hard. I hear and see you. Here’s my love letter from a year ago. https://t.co/BdxMohtS3s

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

@RobGibsn Thank you so much! So fortunate to have great mentors along the way. (You included)

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

What I’ve learned in my 6 months as a new director of a School of Music;
1. Listen to your faculty and when you think you’ve listened enough, listen some more 2. Teach at least one class so you understand your student population (plus it’s good for you)

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

10. Listen.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

9. Champion successes of your faculty and students. Make those public as soon as possible to others on campus.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

7. You set the tone in your department. This includes work/life balance but also overall attitude. 8. Sometimes walking to the registrar or financial aid or HR is more productive than an email. This was a game changer is so many situations

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

5. Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Find a mentor you trust, one on and one away from your campus. Hire a trainer on campus who keeps you accountable.

[Jennifer snodgrass @Theoryprof]

3. If you make a promise, follow through. If you say you will try to make it happen, keep everyone up to date on the process 4. Know your adjunct faculty by name and what talents bring to your school. Validate them every chance you get