It seems like everything in my life starts with an introduction: a new book, pieces of music, a lesson, a new friendship... The list could go on and on, so it seems only fitting that a blog should start with one as well.
My name is Crystal Berteau. I am a K-5 music teacher in a town about 40 minutes South West of Saint Louis Missouri. I graduated from Concordia University - Saint Paul last May (2015), so I have only been a teacher for oh... 8 months? Even so, I love what I do, and I am confident that I'm in exactly the right line of work. Originally going through high school and college, I was certain that I wanted to teach high school choir, with the intention of some day becoming a clinician that would travel to work with All-State or Invitational choirs. That could certainly be on the horizon in the future, but when a full-time music job lands in your lap one week before the school year starts with no other prospects, you take what you can get. I was hesitant at first, but I have absolutely fallen in love with teaching elementary music.
It seems like the most common question in the music world is "what's your instrument?" The answer is my voice, although I also take some semblance of pride in my piano abilities. Through many years of tears and struggles, I am thankful that my mom forced me to start piano lessons when I was 6, and for my intimidating and incredibly talented college piano professor who always reminded me that I could do better. As with all recent college grads who still remember some of the things that they learned, I can fudge my way through "Hot Cross Buns" and a scale or two on most of the major instruments that are taught in schools. The top instrument on my bucket list to learn is the harp. Someday...
As for life outside of teaching music (what? that exists??) I am married to the most hilarious and thoughtful man, and we just celebrated our first anniversary this past December. He is a student in Seminary, studying to be a Lutheran Pastor. Together we enjoy trying local restaurants, watching Netflix (our current favorites are 30 Rock and Psych) and watching Minnesota Sports. Some of my other favorite things are making any and all kinds of crafts, running, teaching Zumba, cooking, and sharing Jesus' love. As a future - pastor's wife, I get some flack about why I'm not teaching in a private Lutheran school. 1.) See the first full paragraph about the job falling in my lap... and 2.) although I'm not professing my faith and reading scripture to my students, I believe that I am still effectively sharing and displaying the love of Christ through my daily actions and interactions, and providing that opportunity for students to experience Christ when they may not have that kind of love at home, but that's a soap box tale for another post.
Why did I start this blog?
Glad that you asked! (And I'm glad that you've continued reading this far into my post...)
My big "summer project" is to start getting my name and ideas out into the teaching world. Although high school choir isn't where I see myself right now, I still see myself in higher education. I am excited to the point of being giddy by the idea of being able to teach other teachers about teaching music. Whether that outlet is in a college setting, as a traveling clinician going to state music educator conferences, or any other avenues that prevent themselves... I want to start figuring out how to get my ideas out there, and to start collaborating with other professionals in my field. Step One - Blog. Check! Step Two - Teachers Pay Teachers. Currently in Progress. That's why I have created the "brand" Crystal's Common Time. I love titles, themes, and things that are clever. I would love to know your thoughts, ideas, and get any feedback on my initial logo draft.
Fun Fact: I spent my spring break learning how to make my own clip-art. How exciting!!
Do we have any "common times?" are you a runner, zumba instructor, or avid Psych fan? Let me know! :)
Thanks for reading!
Crystal's Common Time
