An Interview With Scyler Shearer - Music Teacher

What is your position at the American School Puerto Vallarta?

I am the Music Teacher.

What is your experience as a Music Teacher?

I have taught music for the last ten years near Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Are you certified by any Association?

I earned my K-12 vocal music degree from St. Olaf College and hold a Minnesota K-12 vocal music teaching license. I also have a Masters Degree in Elementary Music Education which I received from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. I am also a certified Orff-Schulwerk instructor. This is a methodology of music instruction for kids which focuses on natural speech and movement patterns and incorporates many instruments as well as composition and improvisation.

As a new Music Teacher at the American School Puerto Vallarta and with all experience you have acquired in the US, are you going to implement new techniques of music?

I am excited to work on a wide variety of music with the chorus groups. I feel that music must be relevant and engaging for students. I hope to incorporate new and exciting music styles which the kids will enjoy to help boost motivation.

How important is music for the mental development of a student?

Music allows students to express themselves in ways that words alone cannot. It gives students another avenue in which to be expressive and creative.

Is there any academic difference between schools in the United States compare to American School Puerto Vallarta?

Every school has its strengths. ASPV holds its students to high levels of academic achievement by offering multiple pathways to excellence. AP classes, the arts, and language immersion are just three of the many strengths that the school provides.

As a Music Teacher do you have all the equipment necessary in the ASPV to teach music to the students?

Yes, the music room is equipped with many instruments – xylophones, many different kinds of drums and other pitched and non-pitched percussion instruments, and recorders just to name a few. We are also excited to looking into exciting possibilities between music and technology.

What instruments do you recommend to a student to have interest for the music?

The percussion instruments in our room are a great place to start. Rhythm provides the foundation for music. By having a strong understanding of rhythm students can better understand other aspects of music – melody, harmony, form, etc.

Have you ever orchestrated any presentation on a theater in the U.S.?

I have directed many concerts, revues and musicals in the ten years I have been teaching. My choirs in Minnesota were quite large (over 200 students) and therefore needed large stages to perform. We were lucky in that the district had a beautiful theater for us to perform in for our productions.

As a choir director are you going to make a presentation for your students on a theater?

We will have multiple performances throughout the year – a Christmas concert, a Mother’s Day performance as well as a musical in the spring.

Have you ever participated with your music at the charity event?

Definitely. In the U.S. my choirs performed at many events in our community ranging from charity events to help local families in need to singing at retirement homes and hospitals. Music is such a wonderful way to give back to the community.

What would you like to say to American and Canadian parents about the American School Puerto Vallarta?

The American School provides a well rounded education that focuses on how students learn best. The staff is highly trained and motivated. Students are happy and achieve great things. It is a community, a family – one that I am proud to be a part of.

What do you like most about Puerto Vallarta?

The people – everyone has been so friendly and helpful!

What is your favorite hobby?

Composing, recording music and running.