United Sound's Teacher of the Year: Spotlight on Chris Coughlin

United Sound is an organization dedicated to providing musical performance experiences to students with special needs through peer mentorship. Every year, United Sound selects a “Teacher of the Year” based on peer nominations, who receives paid airfare and registration to attend The Midwest Clinic . We recently spoke with this year’s recipient, Chris Coughlin, to learn about his background in music, how he got involved with United Sound, how the mentorships have transformed his students, and more.

What does it mean to you to be recognized as United Sound’s Teacher of the Year?

It’s an incredible honor. To be honest, I’m feeling quite a bit of Imposter Syndrome about the whole thing. I read the nomination letter that was submitted on my behalf and was very touched. It motivates me to want to be a better teacher; to live up to the kind of things that were said about me.

What is your background in music and teaching?

This is my 10th year teaching, but I’ve been a musician all my life. I started playing the piano as soon as I could reach the keys and picked up the trumpet in 4th grade. My high school band experience was hugely influential in my decision to pursue music as a career. I majored in music education and composition at Arizona State University and completed a masters in Band Conducting from the American Band College at Sam Houston State University.

How did you first get involved with United Sound?

I knew Julie Duty (the founder of United Sound) because we were both members of the Tempe Wind Ensemble, and I had heard of the program, but had never seen it in person. A few years ago (I was teaching middle school band at the time), I attended a concert at Dobson High School and was able to see a United Sound performance. I was deeply touched and knew that if I ever taught at the high school level, I would want to start a United Sound chapter. I moved to San Diego in 2016 and accepted a position at Mission Hills High School. This is our third year of United Sound.

What advice do you have for other teachers who may have special needs students in their music classrooms?

Music is for everyone. It’s really, really easy as a conductor to worry about how the kids affect the music, but I would encourage teachers to think about how the music affects the kids. Our new musicians are some of the coolest kids in the program—I honestly can’t imagine band at Mission Hills without them. Practically speaking, don’t be afraid to ask for help (I would be lost without my SpEd colleagues who have partnered with me to form our chapter).

How has working with United Sound helped you in your own teaching? What have you learned from your experience?

United sound has brought me patience, perspective, joy, understanding… the list could go on. It’s difficult to be around the students and not feel a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share our time and make music together.

How important is the relationship-building aspect of the program? Does it contribute to musical learning?

I think the relationships are the most important part of it all. It would be one thing if I were teaching music to new musicians, but what is really awesome is the peer-to-peer connections and genuine friendships. We get to do something really cool (make music!), but doing it together is what makes the experience life-changing.

What type of transformation have you witnessed in students who participate in the program—for both Peer Mentors and New Musicians?

I think the same things that I’ve gained through the program (patience, perspective, joy, understanding, etc.) are shared with the students. I see the mentors really stepping up as role models and friends. They gain an understanding of the challenges and rewards of teaching. The new musicians constantly surprise me by exceeding our expectations. It really makes you consider how often we underestimate each other, and how huge an impact having high standards in a supportive environment can have.

What advice would you give to other music teachers who are interested in collaborating with other teachers, cross departmentally?

Do it! It’s an awesome opportunity to showcase your program, and build bridges on your campus. The kids love it, they have fun, and it’s good for them!

What are you most excited for at the upcoming Midwest Clinic?

Seeing colleagues/friends who I usually only see at Midwest. Attending performances. The clinics. Everything, honestly. It’s Band Director Christmas!