The Most Powerful Music Advocates Are in Your Classroom
In episode 117, Theresa and Kathryn talk with Jazzmone Sutton, Senior Manager of State Advocacy and Equity at NAfME, about rethinking what music education advocacy can look like. Jazzmone challenges the idea that advocacy is simply “sharing the good news” about our programs, instead describing effective advocacy as getting others to act positively on behalf of students and educators—and doing that work proactively. A key part of that advocacy? Students themselves. Jazzmone shares powerful stories of elementary students identifying what they needed, creating opportunities to make music beyond the classroom, and even advocating directly with a principal for a middle school choir.
The conversation also explores how student ownership and advocacy are deeply connected. When students understand why music matters to them, have opportunities to lead, and see themselves as drivers of their own musical journeys, they become authentic advocates for music education. Jazzmone offers practical encouragement for teachers who feel uncomfortable advocating, reminding us that a “no” from one person isn’t a “no” from everyone; and that doing advocacy work often means getting comfortable with discomfort, building relationships, and refusing to simply accept the status quo when students deserve better.
Listen to the full interview:
Here are some key takeaways from Episode 117:
- Students Advocate – Students are not just the reason we advocate – they can be some of our strongest and most authentic advocates.
- Ask Why – Before advocating for students, ask them why music matters, what they need, and what they want from music.
- Build Agency – When students identify what they need and take action toward their goals, advocacy becomes an authentic expression of ownership.
- Get Uncomfortable – Effective advocacy means getting comfortable with discomfort, building relationships, and refusing to accept the status quo.
- Keep Going – A no from one person isn’t a no from everyone, and a no today isn’t necessarily a no tomorrow.
Listen Today!
You can check out the full interview on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. Or you can listen right here!
Connect with Jazzmone and learn more:
You might also enjoy these other episodes:
- Episode 62 – The Kids Come First: Student Ownership in Ensembles, featuring Kathleen Jacoby
- Episode 90 – Throw Away the Rubric: Ungrading the Music Room, featuring Chris Gleason
- Episode 77 – Inspiring Young Musicians: Passion and Purpose in Music Education, featuring Stephen Cox
- Episode 85 – Fostering Lifelong Learning through Reflective Partnerships, featuring Merlin Thompson
