I think sometimes (for me, more often than not!) the best way to get students to where we want them to be is to envision them there.  And then use what is termed, The Backwards Completion Principle.  Picture the goal point, then plot backwards from there, step by step, to where they are now. Working from “finish” to “start” can sometimes be exhilarating and empowering.

Peter Loel Boonshaft, Director of Education
KHS America

About the Author

Dr. Boonshaft is the author of the critically acclaimed best-selling books Teaching Music with Passion, Teaching Music with Purpose, and Teaching Music with Promise. Dr. Boonshaft is currently on the faculty of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, where he is Professor of Music and Director of Bands. He has also been named Director of Education for KHS America. He was honored by the National Association for Music Education and Music For All as the first recipient of the “George M. Parks Award for Leadership in Music Education.”

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