Is Being a Music Teacher a Rewarding and Financially Stable Career Path?

Being a music teacher is a noble profession that has been around for centuries. It requires patience, dedication, and a deep love for music. Many people wonder if being a music teacher is a good job, both in terms of financial stability and personal fulfillment. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of being a music teacher, and determine if it is a rewarding and financially stable career path. From the joy of watching students learn and grow to the challenges of navigating the education system, we will delve into the unique world of music teaching and discover what it takes to make a living while making a difference in the lives of others. So, let’s get started and find out if being a music teacher is the perfect career for you!

A Career Overview

Music Teacher Job Description

As a music teacher, one’s primary responsibility is to educate and inspire students in the art of music. This can involve teaching a variety of musical instruments, such as the piano, guitar, or violin, as well as vocal instruction and music theory. In addition to providing individual lessons, music teachers may also be responsible for leading group classes, conducting ensembles, and preparing students for performances and competitions.

A typical day for a music teacher may involve a combination of one-on-one lessons, rehearsals with student ensembles, and time spent on lesson planning and grading. Music teachers may also be required to attend meetings, workshops, and professional development events to stay up-to-date on the latest teaching techniques and industry trends.

Some music teachers may also have the opportunity to work as adjunct faculty at colleges or universities, teaching music appreciation or music history courses. Others may choose to open their own private music studios, where they can offer lessons and teach a variety of instruments to students of all ages and skill levels.

Regardless of the specific job setting, music teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation of musicians and helping students develop a lifelong appreciation for music.

Responsibilities and Skills Required

A music teacher is responsible for teaching music to students of all ages and skill levels. This may include individual or group lessons, as well as instruction in music theory, history, and performance.

To be a successful music teacher, one must possess a strong knowledge of music and a passion for teaching. Other important skills include:

• Communication: The ability to effectively communicate with students, parents, and other educators.
• Patience: The ability to remain patient and supportive while teaching students with varying skill levels and learning styles.
• Creativity: The ability to think creatively and design lesson plans that engage and inspire students.
• Flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and modify lesson plans as needed.
• Organization: The ability to keep track of schedules, student progress, and lesson materials.

In addition to these skills, a music teacher should also have a strong background in music education and performance. This may include a degree in music education or a related field, as well as experience performing and teaching music.

Music Teacher vs. Other Teaching Professions

When it comes to choosing a career path, there are many factors to consider. For those who have a passion for music and a desire to share their knowledge with others, becoming a music teacher may be an attractive option. However, it’s important to compare the pros and cons of this career path with other teaching professions to determine if it’s the right choice.

In this section, we’ll explore the differences between being a music teacher and other teaching professions, including the unique challenges and opportunities that come with each role.

Music Teacher

• Teaches music theory, performance, and appreciation to students of all ages and skill levels
• Focuses on developing students’ musical abilities and fostering a love for music
• May also be involved in extracurricular activities such as school bands, choirs, and musical productions
• May have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of music, such as orchestral or vocal music

Other Teaching Professions

• Teaches a wide range of subjects, including math, science, language arts, and social studies
• Focuses on helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as preparing them for standardized tests and college entrance exams
• May also be involved in extracurricular activities such as sports teams, clubs, and academic competitions
• May have the opportunity to specialize in a particular subject area, such as math or science

Comparing the Roles

While both music teachers and other teaching professions play an important role in shaping the minds of future generations, there are some key differences between the two. Music teachers have the unique opportunity to focus solely on music and develop students’ musical abilities, while other teaching professions have a broader focus on a variety of subjects. Additionally, music teachers may have more flexibility in terms of choosing their own curriculum and extracurricular activities, while other teaching professions may be more constrained by state and national standards.

Ultimately, the choice between becoming a music teacher or another type of teacher will depend on an individual’s personal interests, goals, and passions. However, by exploring the pros and cons of each career path, aspiring educators can make an informed decision about which path is right for them.

Benefits of Being a Music Teacher

Personal Satisfaction

Being a music teacher can provide a sense of personal satisfaction that is hard to find in other careers. This satisfaction comes from a variety of sources, including the ability to share one’s passion for music with others, the opportunity to watch students grow and develop their own musical abilities, and the fulfillment of knowing that one is making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Sharing One’s Passion for Music

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a music teacher is the opportunity to share one’s passion for music with others. For many music teachers, this is a lifelong dream come true. They have a deep love for music and a desire to pass on that love to others. By sharing their knowledge and experience, they are able to inspire their students to develop a love for music as well.

Watching Students Grow and Develop

Another source of personal satisfaction for music teachers is the opportunity to watch their students grow and develop their own musical abilities. Seeing a student progress from playing their first notes to performing a complex piece is a truly rewarding experience. Music teachers are able to see the fruits of their labor and know that they have played a significant role in their students’ musical journey.

Making a Positive Impact on Others

Finally, being a music teacher provides a sense of fulfillment knowing that one is making a positive impact on the lives of others. Music has the power to bring people together and create a sense of community. By teaching music, one is able to contribute to this power and help create a more harmonious world.

In conclusion, personal satisfaction is a key benefit of being a music teacher. The opportunity to share one’s passion for music, watch students grow and develop, and make a positive impact on the lives of others are all reasons why being a music teacher can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Growth Opportunities

Being a music teacher can offer numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. Some of the ways in which a music teacher can grow in their career include:

1. Expanding Your Skill Set: As a music teacher, you will have the opportunity to hone your skills in areas such as music theory, composition, and performance. This can help you to become a more well-rounded musician and teacher, and can also open up new opportunities for collaboration and creativity.
2. Professional Development: There are many opportunities for music teachers to engage in professional development, such as attending workshops, conferences, and masterclasses. These events can provide valuable insights into new teaching techniques, technology, and musical styles, and can help you to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the field.
3. Leadership Opportunities: As you gain experience and expertise in your field, you may be able to take on leadership roles within your school or community. This could include leading choirs, bands, or orchestras, or organizing music festivals and events. These opportunities can help you to develop your leadership skills and build your professional network.
4. Mentoring and Coaching: As a music teacher, you will have the opportunity to mentor and coach other music educators, whether it be new teachers or students pursuing a career in music education. This can be a rewarding experience, as you can help others to develop their skills and passion for music.

Overall, being a music teacher can offer a wealth of opportunities for growth and development, both personally and professionally. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can build a fulfilling and rewarding career in music education.

Impact on Students’ Lives

As a music teacher, you have the opportunity to make a significant impact on your students’ lives. You will not only be teaching them music, but also nurturing their creativity, confidence, and love for the arts.

Here are some ways in which being a music teacher can have a positive impact on students’ lives:

• Developing Creative Skills: As a music teacher, you can help your students develop their creativity through various musical activities such as composing, improvising, and arranging music. By engaging in these activities, students can learn to think outside the box and express themselves in unique ways.
• Boosting Confidence: Music is a performing art, and as a music teacher, you can provide your students with numerous opportunities to perform in front of an audience. This can help boost their confidence and self-esteem, as they learn to express themselves through music and receive positive feedback from others.
• Promoting Teamwork: Music is often a collaborative art form, and as a music teacher, you can promote teamwork and collaboration among your students. Through group performances, ensemble playing, and musical projects, students can learn to work together towards a common goal and develop important social skills.
• Fostering a Love for the Arts: As a music teacher, you can introduce your students to a wide range of musical genres and styles, and help them develop a deep appreciation for the arts. By exposing them to different musical traditions and cultures, you can foster a lifelong love for music and the arts.

Overall, being a music teacher can be a highly rewarding career path, both personally and financially. By making a positive impact on your students’ lives, you can help shape the next generation of musicians and arts enthusiasts.

Challenges Faced by Music Teachers

Time Management

As a music teacher, managing time effectively is crucial to ensure a successful career. Music teachers often have to balance teaching, practicing, and performing, along with administrative tasks such as lesson planning, scheduling, and communication with parents. This can be challenging, especially for those who are teaching multiple classes or have a large number of students.

One of the main challenges faced by music teachers is finding enough time to practice and perform themselves. Many music teachers are also professional musicians, and they must find a way to balance their teaching responsibilities with their own artistic pursuits. This can be challenging, as teaching can be very time-consuming, leaving little time for practice and performance.

Another challenge faced by music teachers is managing their time during the school day. Music teachers often have to fit their lessons around other subjects, which can be challenging if there are scheduling conflicts or if the school day is disrupted by events such as assemblies or sports practices. Additionally, music teachers may have to spend a significant amount of time grading and providing feedback on student assignments, which can be time-consuming and challenging to fit into an already busy schedule.

To manage their time effectively, music teachers must prioritize their tasks and learn to be efficient with their time. This may involve delegating administrative tasks to teaching assistants or using technology to streamline communication with parents and students. Music teachers may also need to be flexible with their schedules, working evenings or weekends to fit in extra practice or performance time.

In conclusion, time management is a significant challenge faced by music teachers. Balancing teaching, practicing, and performing, along with administrative tasks, can be challenging, especially for those who are teaching multiple classes or have a large number of students. To manage their time effectively, music teachers must prioritize their tasks and learn to be efficient with their time, finding ways to fit in extra practice and performance time when necessary.

Limited Resources

Music teachers often face the challenge of limited resources. These resources can include funding for music programs, access to musical instruments, and classroom space. This challenge can make it difficult for music teachers to provide their students with the best possible education.

• Funding for Music Programs
  • Music programs in schools often rely on funding from the school district or from private donors. In some cases, funding for music programs may be limited, which can impact the quality of education that students receive.
  • Music teachers may need to be creative in finding ways to provide their students with a high-quality music education, even with limited resources.
• Access to Musical Instruments
  • Many music teachers face the challenge of providing their students with access to musical instruments. This can be particularly challenging in schools where music programs are underfunded or where there is a high demand for musical instruments.
  • Some music teachers may need to rely on donations or grants to purchase musical instruments for their students. In other cases, music teachers may need to teach their students using only digital instruments or simulation software.
• Classroom Space
  • Music teachers may also face challenges when it comes to classroom space. This can be particularly challenging in schools where there is a high demand for music classes or where there is limited space available.
  • Some music teachers may need to get creative when it comes to finding space for their classes. They may need to schedule classes during non-traditional times or may need to use alternative spaces, such as auditoriums or gymnasiums.

Despite these challenges, many music teachers find ways to provide their students with a high-quality education. They may work hard to secure funding for their programs, to find donations of musical instruments, or to make the most of the space that is available to them. As a result, many music teachers are able to provide their students with a rewarding and enriching education.

Administrative Hurdles

Music teachers face a range of administrative hurdles that can make their career path challenging. Some of these challenges include:

• Limited Budgets: Music teachers often have limited budgets to work with, which can make it difficult to provide the necessary resources for their students. This can include instruments, sheet music, and other materials that are essential for a quality music education.
• Paperwork and Red Tape: Music teachers are often required to complete a significant amount of paperwork and navigate complex bureaucratic systems. This can take away from the time they have to devote to teaching and can be frustrating for those who are passionate about music education.
• Classroom Management: Managing a classroom of students can be challenging, especially for music teachers who must also manage the logistics of musical instruments and equipment. This can require a high level of organizational skills and patience.
• Meeting Curriculum Standards: Music teachers must often meet strict curriculum standards, which can be challenging to balance with the creative and artistic nature of music education. This can require a significant amount of time and effort to stay up-to-date with the latest standards and adapt lesson plans accordingly.
• Limited Professional Development Opportunities: Music teachers may have limited access to professional development opportunities, which can make it difficult to stay current with the latest trends and techniques in music education. This can be especially challenging for those who teach in rural or underfunded schools.

Despite these challenges, many music teachers find their career path to be rewarding and fulfilling. By understanding the administrative hurdles they may face, aspiring music teachers can be better prepared to navigate these challenges and succeed in their careers.

Financial Stability of Music Teachers

Salary Potential

The salary potential of music teachers varies greatly depending on their level of education, experience, and location. According to the National Association for Music Education, the average salary for a music teacher in the United States is around $48,000 per year. However, some music teachers with advanced degrees and experience can earn upwards of $70,000 or more.

In addition to their base salary, music teachers may also have the opportunity to earn additional income through private lessons, teaching summer classes, or conducting workshops or clinics. The amount of additional income a music teacher can earn will depend on their level of expertise, availability, and demand for their services.

It’s important to note that the financial stability of music teachers can also be affected by the economic conditions of their school district or region. Budget cuts and financial instability can lead to job losses or reduced hours for music teachers, making it essential for them to have a diverse set of skills and income streams.

Overall, while the salary potential for music teachers may not be as high as other professions, the ability to make a positive impact on their students’ lives and the flexibility of their schedules can make it a rewarding and financially stable career path for those who are passionate about music education.

Additional Income Opportunities

Music teachers can explore various additional income opportunities to supplement their income. Here are some of the ways in which they can earn extra money:

1. Private Lessons: Music teachers can offer private lessons to students outside of their regular school hours. These lessons can be in person or online, and the teacher can charge an hourly rate for their services.
2. Summer Programs: During the summer months, music teachers can offer intensive programs or workshops to students who want to improve their skills. These programs can be offered in person or online, and the teacher can charge a fee for their services.
3. Music Festivals: Music teachers can participate in music festivals as adjudicators or clinicians. They can offer workshops, masterclasses, or performances, and receive payment for their services.
4. Online Music Teaching Platforms: Music teachers can also teach online through various platforms that connect teachers with students. They can create their own profile, set their rates, and teach students from anywhere in the world.
5. Composing and Arranging Music: Music teachers who have composition or arranging skills can sell their music to publishers or directly to schools and ensembles. They can also license their music to music production companies for use in TV shows, commercials, or movies.

These additional income opportunities can help music teachers increase their income and supplement their salary from their main job. However, it is important to note that these opportunities may require additional time and effort, and may not be suitable for everyone. It is up to each individual teacher to decide whether to pursue these opportunities based on their interests, skills, and availability.

Career Advancement

The financial stability of music teachers can vary greatly depending on factors such as their level of education, years of experience, and location. However, one way that music teachers can increase their earning potential is through career advancement.

Career advancement for music teachers can take many forms, including taking on additional responsibilities within their current institution, such as leading a school orchestra or choir, or becoming a department chair. Some music teachers may also choose to pursue a career in music education administration, which can involve overseeing music programs at the district or state level.

In addition to taking on additional responsibilities within their current institution, music teachers may also choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in music education. These credentials can open up new opportunities for career advancement, such as teaching at the college level or working as a consultant for music education programs.

It’s important to note that career advancement in the field of music education may not always result in a significant increase in salary. However, it can provide music teachers with opportunities to develop new skills, take on leadership roles, and make a greater impact on the lives of their students.

Overall, while financial stability may not be the primary motivator for many music teachers, career advancement can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as the ability to make a positive impact on the lives of their students.

Qualities and Requirements for Success

Passion for Music

Being a music teacher requires a deep passion for music. This passion serves as the foundation for a successful career in music education. Here are some key points to consider:

• Love for Music: A love for music is essential for music teachers. They must have a genuine appreciation for different genres, styles, and periods of music. This love for music motivates them to share their knowledge with others and inspire students to develop a lifelong appreciation for music.
• Musical Skills: Music teachers must possess strong musical skills, including proficiency in playing an instrument or singing. This enables them to effectively teach students and provide them with a high-quality musical education.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for music teachers. They must be able to communicate complex musical concepts in a way that is easy for students to understand. Additionally, they must be able to communicate their passion for music in a way that inspires and motivates students.
• Patience and Persistence: Teaching music can be challenging, especially when working with students who struggle to grasp concepts. Music teachers must have patience and persistence to help students overcome obstacles and achieve their musical goals.
• Creativity: Music teachers must be creative in their approach to teaching. They must be able to adapt their teaching style to meet the needs of different students and create engaging lesson plans that keep students interested and motivated.
• Education and Training: A degree in music education or a related field is typically required to become a music teacher. Additionally, music teachers must be willing to continue their education and training throughout their careers to stay up-to-date with best practices in music education.

Overall, a passion for music is essential for success as a music teacher. This passion serves as the foundation for a successful career in music education and helps music teachers to inspire and motivate their students to achieve their musical goals.

Effective Communication Skills

As a music teacher, effective communication skills are essential to ensure that students understand the concepts being taught and can apply them effectively. Music teachers must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with their students, as well as with parents and other educators. This requires strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to adapt communication styles to meet the needs of different students.

One key aspect of effective communication in music education is the ability to explain complex musical concepts in a way that is easy for students to understand. This may involve using analogies, demonstrations, and other teaching techniques to help students grasp difficult concepts. Music teachers must also be able to provide constructive feedback to students, helping them to identify areas where they can improve and providing guidance on how to do so.

In addition to verbal communication, music teachers must also be skilled at written communication. This may include creating lesson plans, communicating with parents about student progress, and providing feedback on student performances. Effective written communication is essential for ensuring that students are able to understand and follow instructions, as well as for building trust and rapport with parents and other educators.

Finally, music teachers must be able to adapt their communication style to meet the needs of different students. This may involve using different teaching techniques or communication styles depending on the student’s learning style, personality, or background. By being flexible and adaptable in their communication, music teachers can help ensure that all students are able to succeed in their music education.

Patience and Perseverance

As a music teacher, one of the most important qualities that you need to possess is patience. Teaching music involves a lot of repetition, and it can be frustrating when students don’t seem to grasp a concept. However, it’s important to remember that everyone learns at their own pace, and it’s your job to help them reach their full potential. This requires patience and a willingness to take the time to explain concepts and provide individualized attention when needed.

Perseverance is another key quality that’s essential for success as a music teacher. Teaching music can be challenging, and there will be times when you feel like you’re not making any progress. However, it’s important to remember that music education is a long-term investment, and it takes time to see results. Perseverance means sticking with it even when things get tough, and believing in the value of what you’re doing.

In addition to patience and perseverance, there are other qualities that are important for success as a music teacher. These include:

• Passion for music: As a music teacher, you need to have a deep love and appreciation for music. This will help you inspire your students and motivate them to learn.
• Communication skills: Music teachers need to be able to communicate effectively with their students, parents, and colleagues. This involves being able to explain complex concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, as well as being able to listen actively and respond to feedback.
• Creativity: Music education is all about fostering creativity and self-expression. As a music teacher, you need to be able to think outside the box and come up with new and engaging ways to teach music.
• Flexibility: Music education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every student is unique, and it’s important to be able to adapt your teaching style to meet the needs of each individual.

Overall, being a music teacher requires a unique combination of patience, perseverance, passion, communication skills, creativity, and flexibility. If you possess these qualities, then a career in music education can be incredibly rewarding both personally and financially.

Education and Certification

Becoming a music teacher requires a combination of passion for music, patience, and education. The educational requirements for a music teacher can vary depending on the country, state, or province where they plan to teach. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in music education or a related field is required, along with certification.

Certification requirements vary by region, but typically include a combination of coursework, exams, and teaching experience. For example, in the United States, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) offers a certification program that includes a music education degree from an accredited institution, passage of a music content knowledge exam, and completion of a music teacher preparation program.

In addition to certification, music teachers should have a strong foundation in music theory, performance, and history. They should also be able to adapt to different teaching styles and accommodate students with diverse learning needs.

Furthermore, ongoing professional development is crucial for music teachers to stay current with best practices and trends in music education. This can include attending workshops, conferences, and continuing education courses.

Overall, becoming a music teacher requires a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for sharing the joy of music with others.

Reflecting on the Rewards and Challenges

The Joys of Teaching Music

Being a music teacher can be incredibly rewarding. One of the most fulfilling aspects of the job is watching students grow and develop their musical abilities. It’s also enjoyable to help students explore their creativity and express themselves through music. Many music teachers find it gratifying to see their students excel in performances and competitions, and to hear from former students who have gone on to pursue successful careers in music.

The Challenges of Teaching Music

Despite the many rewards of being a music teacher, there are also challenges that come with the job. One of the biggest challenges is managing a classroom full of students with different learning styles and abilities. Music teachers must be skilled at adapting their teaching methods to meet the needs of each student, which can be time-consuming and demanding. Another challenge is the pressure to consistently produce high-quality performances and events, which can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, music teachers often have to work long hours to prepare for performances and events, which can take a toll on their personal lives.

The Importance of Passion and Patience

Despite the challenges, many music teachers find the rewards of the job to be well worth the effort. However, it’s important for aspiring music teachers to be aware of the challenges and to have a strong passion for music and teaching. Patience and a willingness to adapt to the needs of each student are also essential qualities for success as a music teacher. By understanding the rewards and challenges of the job, prospective music teachers can determine if this career path is the right choice for them.

The Future of Music Education

As technology continues to advance and the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of music education in society is evolving. Despite these changes, music education remains a vital and necessary component of a well-rounded education.

In the future, music education is likely to become even more diverse and inclusive, with a greater emphasis on incorporating technology and multicultural influences into the curriculum. This will require music teachers to be adaptable and open to new ideas, as well as skilled in using technology to enhance the learning experience.

Another trend in the future of music education is the growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being. Music has long been recognized as a powerful tool for promoting emotional expression and well-being, and this is likely to become even more prominent in the future. As a result, music teachers may be called upon to provide more support and resources for students struggling with mental health issues.

Finally, the future of music education may also involve a greater focus on community engagement and outreach. Music has the power to bring people together and foster a sense of community, and music teachers may be called upon to lead efforts to promote music-making and music education in their local communities.

Overall, while the future of music education may bring some challenges and changes, it also offers many opportunities for music teachers to make a positive impact on the lives of their students and their communities.

A Promising Career Path for Passionate Educators

Becoming a music teacher can be a rewarding and financially stable career path for passionate educators who possess certain qualities and meet specific requirements.

• Passion for Music: A love for music is essential for any music teacher. This passion fuels the teacher’s desire to impart knowledge and inspire students to develop a love for music as well.
• Effective Communication Skills: Music teachers must be able to communicate complex musical concepts in a way that is easy for students to understand. This requires strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to convey emotions and ideas through music.
• Patience and Perseverance: Learning music is a long-term process that requires patience and perseverance. Music teachers must be able to motivate and encourage students to continue practicing and improving, even when progress is slow.
• Creativity and Flexibility: Music teachers must be creative and flexible in their teaching methods to adapt to the needs and interests of each student. They must be able to incorporate different genres and styles of music into their lessons to keep students engaged and motivated.
• Education and Training: A degree in music education or a related field is typically required to become a music teacher. This education provides the necessary knowledge and skills to teach music theory, performance, and history. Additionally, music teachers must continue to develop their skills through ongoing professional development and training.

By possessing these qualities and meeting these requirements, music teachers can embark on a promising career path that is both rewarding and financially stable.

FAQs

1. What are the responsibilities of a music teacher?

A music teacher is responsible for teaching students about music theory, history, and performance. They also guide students in developing their musical skills through individual and group lessons, and may also teach music technology and composition. Music teachers work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, universities, and music conservatories.

2. What qualifications do I need to become a music teacher?

To become a music teacher, you typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in music education. Some schools may also require a teaching certification. Additionally, music teachers should have a strong background in music theory and performance, as well as excellent communication and teaching skills.

3. What are the benefits of being a music teacher?

Being a music teacher can be a very rewarding career path. Music teachers have the opportunity to share their passion for music with their students and help them develop their skills and confidence. They also get to work in a creative and dynamic field, and may have the opportunity to perform and conduct music themselves. Additionally, music teachers often enjoy good job security and benefits, and may have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings.

4. Is being a music teacher financially stable?

Yes, being a music teacher can be a financially stable career path. Music teachers in public schools typically earn a competitive salary and may also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Music teachers in private schools and universities may also earn a good salary, and may have the opportunity to earn additional income through private lessons and performance opportunities.

5. What are the challenges of being a music teacher?

One of the main challenges of being a music teacher is managing a classroom of students with different learning styles and abilities. Music teachers also need to be able to balance teaching music theory and performance skills, and may need to adapt their teaching methods to meet the needs of their students. Additionally, music teachers may face challenges related to budget constraints and limited resources, particularly in public schools.

Why Become a Music Teacher?