The NCHS Band will be attending the 2024 Midwest Music Clinic
in Chicago, December 18-20. The conference will focus on industry
trends and future topics in business and music education. With more than
18,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 40 countries,
The Midwest Clinic offers music educators and musicians alike an
unmatched networking opportunity. Congratulations to our
outstanding band and their accomplishments.
Notes from Northbrook:
It's possible to have a well-rounded program at any size school. It's also easy to look at a big school and think they have it easier. Running a good program is going to be difficult in any size school. If the school and program are a good fit for you, spend the time to develop it into something that makes you proud. This will never be easy but it will always be worth it.
Show people that you are having fun. The job is stressful, difficult, and sometimes it is impossible for a director not to show it. Don't be afraid to also show how much fun you are having. Laugh with your kids, it is therapeutic.
Play music with students in the classroom and in public. It is the first reason we fell in love with what we do. Don't be afraid to show the emotion of our art - being human is being realistic. Make a fool out of yourself, dance while everyone is watching, sing when no one wants to listen, tell bad jokes for the 100th time during the hour. It's one thing to say you are doing fun things with your students and program. It's completely different when you show them how fun music is.
Support your students in everything they do. Music isn't the only important thing to them nor should it be. Share your non-musical interests with them. They may not say it's cool but will probably think it is anyway.
My students know that I'm a dreamer. They also know I have failed more than I've succeeded. I share both failures and accomplishments with them. I graduated from the same program when I now teach. I think it is essential for students to know that great things come from hard work, dedication, and consistency. If you ask students for my catchphrase is they will tell you it is "Dream Big." Achievfements don't come from towns, schools or programs, they come from people, and anyone can dream.
Steve Browne has taught the last 18 years of his 22-year teaching career at NCHS. During his career he has taught both instrumental and vocal music. He is a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and earned a Masters in Music Education from the University of Florida.
2024-2025 Chromebook Rules & Regulations Video
2024-2025 School Supply List
2024-2025 NCHS Handbook
FREE Lunch Program Information 2024-2025
Parent Letter
English | Spanish
Household Eligibility Application (Income Guidelines)
English | Spanish