Objective: Students will learn how to communicate with kindness and professionalism by writing a thank-you letter to someone who has helped them in their musical journey. They will understand that showing appreciation is an important part of being a musician and that how we say “yes” can leave a lasting impression.

Assignment: Saying “Yes” the Right Way — Writing with Gratitude

Overview: When a musician receives an opportunity—like being chosen for honor band, getting a solo, or being accepted into a summer music camp—it’s important to respond the right way.

In this activity, you will learn how to write a short letter or email to say thank you and yes in a professional and sincere way.

• Learn how to show gratitude to people who support your music journey.
• Practice writing a short, polite thank-you letter.
• Reflect on why good manners and kindness matter in music.
1. Instructions
   1. Step 1: Read and Discuss
      • Read the short article “Saying ‘Yes’ the Right Way: Accepting Your Place in a School of Music.”
      • Then, as a class, talk about these questions:
        • Why does saying “thank you” matter?
        • What can a polite letter tell someone about you as a musician?
        • How can gratitude make you stand out in a positive way?
   2. Step 2: Choose Your Recipient
      • Think of someone connected to your music life:
        • Your band, choir, or orchestra director
        • A private lesson teacher or coach
        • A festival or honor band coordinator
        • A parent, guardian, or friend who has supported your music
      • You’ll write your letter to one of these people.
   3. Step 3: Write Your Letter (100–150 words)
      • Your letter should include:
        • A greeting (Dear __________,)
        • A clear “thank you” and what you’re thankful for
        • One or two sentences about what the opportunity means to you
        • A closing sentence that shows excitement or appreciation
        • A signature (Sincerely, Your Name)
      • Use the article examples for inspiration!
   4. Step 4: Reflect (3–4 sentences)
      • Write a short paragraph answering:
        • How does it feel to show gratitude?
        • Why is being respectful and professional important for musicians?
        • What might people remember about you because of this letter?
   5. Step 5: Review and Share
      • Check your spelling, punctuation, and tone.
      • You may read your letter aloud or share it privately with your teacher.
      • Be sure to hand in both your letter and your reflection paragraph by the due date.

Due Date: _______________________

Grading Rubric (100 Points)

Grading Scale

Objective: Students will demonstrate professional communication skills by composing a formal acceptance and thank-you letter to key faculty or administrators after being admitted to a college School of Music. They will show understanding of etiquette, tone, and relationship-building as part of their transition from high school musician to collegiate performer. Students will analyze how gratitude and professionalism impact their future success as performers, scholars, and ensemble members.

Assignment: Your Acceptance Is the Invitation—Your Response Is the Overture

Overview
You’ve received your acceptance into a School of Music—now it’s time to respond like a professional musician.

In this assignment, you will:

1. Learn how to properly accept your admission and express gratitude to the people who supported your journey.
2. Write one personalized letter or email (you’ll choose the recipient) that demonstrates professionalism, appreciation, and enthusiasm.
3. Reflect on how first impressions set the tone for your future relationships in college music programs.

You will:

• Review models of professional correspondence.
• Draft and refine your own formal acceptance letter.
• Submit a short reflection explaining why gratitude and tone matter in your musical career.

Instructions

Step 1: Read and Discuss
Read the article “Saying ‘Yes’ the Right Way: Accepting Your Place in a School of Music.”
In small groups or class discussion, identify key takeaways:

• What makes a letter professional vs. casual?
• Which details help personalize the message?
• How do timing, tone, and respect build relationships?

Step 2: Choose a Recipient
Select one person to address your letter to:

• A School of Music Recruiter who guided your application
• An Ensemble Director whose group you’ll join
• A Studio Instructor you’ll study with
• (Optional) The Dean of the School of Music

Step 3: Draft Your Letter (200–250 words)
Your letter should include:

• A clear greeting and closing
• Expression of gratitude for their time, guidance, or support
• Specific references to your connection (ensemble, audition, or mentorship)
• Professional tone and structure (formal salutation, concise paragraphs)
• Closing line that expresses excitement and commitment to your studies

Use the examples from the article as models.

Step 4: Reflection (100–150 words)
Write a short paragraph explaining:

• Why professional communication is important for musicians.
• How gratitude can strengthen your reputation and future opportunities.
• What you learned about tone, respect, and timing through this exercise.

Step 5: Proofread and Submit

• Revise your letter for grammar, clarity, and tone.
• Submit both your final letter and reflection paragraph by the due date.

Due Date: _______________________

Grading Rubric (100 Points)

Grading Scale

Saying “Thank You” the Right Way: Helping Young Musicians Learn the Power of Gratitude

Dear ___________________ Parents,

One of the joys of teaching music at the middle school level is watching students begin to discover who they are—not just as musicians, but as people. They’re learning to express themselves, to work as a team, to listen closely, and to lead with heart. It’s a time of exploration—musically, emotionally, and sometimes even spiritually.

That’s why I wanted to share a resource with you that may resonate with your family. Accoladi.com recently published an article titled “Sacred, Church, Ministry—or Worship Arts: Understanding Degrees That Shape Music in Worship.” While the title may sound like something for college-bound students, the heart of the article offers something relevant right now: a look at how music can be used in worship settings—and how that might inspire a student’s sense of purpose.

Now, I want to say this up front: our music program is inclusive of all students, no matter their background or beliefs. We know and deeply respect that our families represent many different faith traditions—or no religious affiliation at all. This is part of what makes our community so special.

That said, for families where faith plays a role in life—whatever that expression may be—I believe this article offers something valuable. It shows how music can serve as a form of worship, reflection, and leadership. From traditional choirs and organs to modern praise bands, from cathedrals to youth ministries, this piece highlights several pathways that connect musical training with spiritual purpose.

It’s not about choosing a path right now—your student is still in the early stages of discovery. But if you’ve ever seen your child moved by music in a worship setting, or if you’ve talked together about the role of faith in their gifts, this article might spark some meaningful conversations.

You can find the article on Accoladi.com (we’ve also included the link in this week’s newsletter). If this subject resonates with your family, I encourage you to read it together and explore how the ideas shared might apply to your own tradition and beliefs.

As always, my goal is to help each student find joy, connection, and confidence through music. For some, that journey may eventually include worship leadership. For others, it might lead to the stage, the studio, or the classroom. All of those paths are worthy. All are welcome.

Thank you for supporting your student’s musical journey. It’s an honor to be part of it.

Musically Yours,

______________________________________________________ [Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________ [School Name]

Saying “Thank You” the Right Way: Helping Young Musicians Learn the Power of Gratitude

Dear ___________ Parents,

When I was a student, I remember the first time I realized how much a simple “thank you” could mean.

I had just finished a big audition that I’d worked hard to prepare for. I thought the judges would remember me for my performance, but what I didn’t realize was how much they remembered the students who took the time afterward to say thank you—either in person or with a short note.

Later, one of my teachers told me, “Kindness and gratitude make as strong an impression as talent.” I’ve never forgotten that.

Now, as a music teacher, I see the same truth play out with our students. The ones who pause to express appreciation—to a director, a judge, or even a classmate—build not only their skills but their character. They learn that musicianship isn’t just about performing well; it’s about how we treat the people who make our musical experiences possible.

That’s why I want to share an excellent article from Accoladi.com titled “Saying ‘Yes’ the Right Way: Accepting Your Place in a School of Music.” While it’s written for older students, the message is perfect for our middle schoolers too. It reminds them that gratitude and professionalism begin long before college—that every opportunity, big or small, deserves a thoughtful response.

I encourage you to read it together and talk about ways your child can show appreciation when they receive a special part, are chosen for a festival, or even just complete a successful concert. These small moments help shape who they are becoming—not just as musicians, but as people.

Again, you can find the article at Accoladi.com under “Articles.”

Thank you for continuing to support your child’s musical growth and character development. Together, we’re helping them build habits that will serve them for a lifetime—both on and off the stage.

With Gratitude for Your Partnership,

____________________________________________ [Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________ [School Name]