When you hear the word Doppelganger, you think of someone who has a strong resemblance to someone else, almost to the point they look like a twin.
There is growing evidence that despite the fact that almost everyone has a Doppleganger, and that they might even share some similar DNA structure, they are not the same person.
According to a recent study in Journal Cell, Dr. Manel Esteller, a researcher in Barcelona, Spain, said, "We were able to see that these look-alike humans share several genetic variants that may explain the similar physical and facial features. But that does not necessarily mean they will behave the same."
Doppelgangers look similar, but are not actually the same. (This is important moving forward.)
The author further states that Doppelgangers likely have always existed, but genetic testing and the internet have made them easier to find and identify.
The study makes me wonder about my Doppelganger.
Not my personal one, my professional one.
I am sure that somewhere in the land of music education, there is someone who teaches like me or speaks like me. Someone who infuses leadership lessons into their classrooms, and enjoys a bit of levity. I know others faced similar struggles and achieved similar results.
I am not unique in that way. I am certain that I have Doppelgangers, perhaps many of them. But, I am not them, and they are not me.
Most music programs look the same to the untrained eye of the parent, administrator, or even adjudicator. But, if you are trained, and know what to look for, the differences are as apparent as they are significant.
So while everyone else sees a sea of Doppelgangers, we can feel isolated, alone - and an island unto ourselves.
WIILLLLLSSSSOOOONNNNN!
Yes, from the outside looking in, your program may look similar to others, but it is not.
Yes, we all deal with similar issues (funding, access, facilities, engagement, enrollment, parent support, etc.) We all struggle with underachieving students and the impacts of the widening socio-economic gap. But as much as we deal with the same issues, we deal with them differently. Ways only you can handle, serving children on you understand.
It's only natural to compare yourself to other teachers or programs, and it's understandable to question or doubt yourself. It's a natural and unintended consequence of being in the performing arts. Just know that you are seeing them, just as they see you, as a Doppelganger.
You may not be the only version of yourself. On some days, you may not even be the best version. But, you are THIS version of yourself. And that is enough!
Yes, you likely have a Doppelganger, personal and professional. And yes, they may appear to be very similar to you in some ways. But, to me, that is not a Doppelganger; that is an imposter. And your students need the real thing!
Have a great week.
Scott