Music has always been an important part of my life. While I don't remember the performances, I have some home videos of me singing in my church's nursery choir. As I watched myself sing and smile as a three-year-old, I realized that must have been where my love for music began. It's amazing that I developed my passion in life so early. This passion has led me to become heavily involved in my church's choirs and musical productions. I remember in fourth grade being so proud and excited to have one of the lead roles in our Christmas musical production. I remember being so happy going to rehearsal every night because I couldn't wait to be on that stage and sing my heart out. That same year I auditioned to be part of the Alabama State Children's Honor Choir and made it. This audition began a new phase in my life and helped develop my interest in choral music. I participated in state honor choirs from 4th grade to 12th grade. In addition to this, I was able to attend the Alabama Baptist Music Camps at Shocco Springs in Talladega, AL over the summer. From sixth to ninth grade I spent my summers learning the importance of music for church worship and how it can help spread the gospel. After learning this, I was able to apply my knowledge by volunteering in my church's preschool and children's choirs. I volunteered from seventh grade through twelfth grade and discovered my interest in teaching and passing on the joys of music to children. Also in seventh grade I started taking singing lessons to better develop my talent. It was during my years of voice lessons as a junior and senior that my voice teacher really encouraged me to consider music education as a career. She had been a public school music teacher for many years and had... half her education... a day job and relaxed by playing the guitar and Woody Allen played the clarinet weekly in a local jazz band for fun. (Lipmann). These men continued to appreciate music throughout their lives. Music has brought great joy to my life, and as a music teacher, I want to show tomorrow's generation how it can do the same for them. Works CitedBaker, SL "Music Benefits the Brain, Research Reveals." Natural news. Natural News Network, July 30, 2010. Web. November 16, 2013. Brown, Laura L. “Benefits of Music Education.” PBS. PBS and Web. November 16, 2013.Hammonds, Suzy. Personal interview. November 18, 2013.Lipman, Joanne. “Is music the key to success?” The New York Times. NY Times, Oct. 12, 2013. Web. Nov. 17. 2013."Music Courses (MUS)." TROY. Np, nd Web. November 16, 2013. “Music Education Lesson Plans.” Music education lesson plans. Np, nd Web. November 20. 2013.