‘Knowing me, knowing you': developing group work life skills

Working in small groups helps to prepare students for life in the music ‘industries’ where, for example, the activities of rehearsing, performing, recording, sound engineering, production and music promotion all depend on groups of individuals. Band rehearsing of popular music is a highly collaborative activity that relies not only on musicians’ performance techniques but also on other skills that members bring to the rehearsal. The contribution of each musician involves, and to an extent depends upon, their teamwork skills, including various personal qualities: self-responsibility, versatility, creative input and leadership, for example. Such attributes are not only highly prized in the profession but are sought also by employers seeking graduates.