Comments on Leadership: ways in which to develop your potential as a
leader. This presentation was prepared for Sigma Alpha Iota. Dr. Ewell
is the advisor for this music fraternity for women. BDP# 340.
www.terryewell.com
[Music: Orefici’s Melodic Study #5]
Welcome, I am Terry Ewell and I want to briefly talk to you about
leadership. Last week I was in Texas to visit a university as an
evaluator for the National Association of Schools of Music. Besides
listening to a concert; visiting classes, rehearsals, and music
lessons; I also observed a student teacher during her internship in a
middle school. I have observed many student teachers, but she was the
best I have seen yet. I was impressed by her poise in front of the
class of forty young vocalists. She guided them through the planned
rehearsal and made appropriate corrections. She demonstrated well with
her voice, although it was just an average voice. Her leadership of the
group was excellent, and it was clear that she had command of the
class’s attention.
I observed the deportment of other students at this music program in
concerts and during interviews and all of them seemed poised and
confident as well. This left me wondering, “How did this
school produce so many students with clear leadership qualities and
comfort in front of a group.” I started asking around and I
think I have a few answers for you.
Now, none of the students at this school were particularly exceptional,
in fact many of them have less music training and aptitude than some of
you listening to this video right now. Many did not come from families
with professionally employed parents and a number of them were
first-generation college students. What they did, however, have was a
dedication about learning to be leaders and a willingness to put
themselves in leadership positions.
Every student in that music education program gives a solo recital.
This only happens after they have performed many times in front of
others. Now, I think that Sigma Alpha Iota addresses this issue well
with the requirements for recitals. Take advantage of this. Put
yourself in situations where you will be nervous. Hone your skills for
presenting yourself well in front of others. Not only play your
instrument or sing in the recital, but also address the audience with a
few words. Every time you do this, you will be much better and much
more comfortable in front of others.
These students were also encouraged to give campus tours or to be
ambassadors. I know that Towson University has openings for students to
lead prospective students and parents around the campus. This is
another great experience for speaking in front of others and leading
groups.
Well, naturally Sigma Alpha Iota has many leadership opportunities as
well. Be eager to volunteer for these. It will help you to better
conduct yourself in front of others. It will help you to be more
comfortable leading others as well.
I found a website at Towson University with many other ideas. Some
things listed there are: Tigers Lead, Leadership Lunch Series,
LeaderShape, National Society of Leadership and Success, Omicron Delta
Kappa, and Student Organization Leadership Summit. Also, many other
items are on this website.
I will close with this statement from Psychology Today:
“The best estimates offered by research is that leadership is
about one-third born and two-thirds made.”[1]
So, you may not be born with great leadership skills, but you certainly
can develop them. There is so much that you can do to become a better
leader. Seek out those opportunities to develop your skills as a
leader. The world always needs more excellent leaders. Bye.
[Music: Orefici’s Melodic Study #5]
[1] Quotation from:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/200903/leaders-born-or-made