Episoe 88 - Parent Orchestra

Episode 88 – Music as a Gift: Connecting Through Parent Orchestras

Music as a Gift: Connecting Through Parent Orchestras In this inspiring episode, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Annie Ray, orchestra director and 2024 Grammy Music Educator Award winner, to explore the heartwarming and transformative concept of the Parent Orchestra. Annie shares how this initiative—rooted in connection and community—brings caregivers together to learn their child’s…

Episode 87 – Using the Critical Response Process to Foster Meaningful Dialogue

Episode 87 – Using the Critical Response Process to Foster Meaningful Dialogue

Using the Critical Response Process to Foster Meaningful Dialogue In episode 87, Kathryn and Theresa dive into the Critical Response Process (CRP) with Mallory Alekna, Assistant Professor of Music, Human Development, and Learning at Augsburg University. Mallory shares how this four-step feedback framework, developed by choreographer Liz Lerman, can transform music classrooms by fostering meaningful…

The Power of Student Voice: Building Equity in Music Education

Episode 86 – The Power of Student Voice: Building Equity in Music Education

The Power of Student Voice: Building Equity in Music Education In episode 86, we dive into the critical role of student voice in fostering equity and inclusivity in music education. Our guest, Felipe Morales-Torres, shares insights from his work at the Bornoff Foundation for the Advancement of String Education, exploring how music teachers can create…

Fostering Lifelong Learning through Reflective Partnerships

Episode 85 – Fostering Lifelong Learning through Reflective Partnerships

Fostering Lifelong Learning through Reflective Partnerships In episode 85, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Merlin Thompson, an experienced private music teacher, clinician, and the founder of Teach Music 21C. With over 45 years of teaching experience, Merlin shares powerful insights on fostering lifelong musicianship through reflective partnership teaching. He challenges the traditional master-apprentice model…

Episode 84

Episode 84 – Assessment for Growth: Empowering Student Musicians

Assessment for Growth: Empowering Student Musicians In episode 84, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Leah Hanley to explore how assessment can be a powerful tool for student empowerment in music education. Leah, a seasoned orchestra teacher in the Bronx, shares insights on the distinction between summative and formative assessment and how the latter can…

Creative Social Justice Projects in General Music

Episode 83 – Creative Social Justice Projects in General Music 

Creative Social Justice Projects in General Music In episode 83, Theresa and Kathryn welcome Jasmine Henderson to discuss her innovative approach to empowering students through social justice projects in general music classes. Jasmine shares her journey from teaching K-8 general music and choir to collaborating with university students to design a groundbreaking project called the…

Making Music, Making Connections: Strategies for Inclusive Music Classrooms

Episode 82 – Making Music, Making Connections: Strategies for Inclusive Music Classrooms 

Making Music, Making Connections: Strategies for Inclusive Music Classrooms In episode 82, Kathryn and Theresa sit down with Matthew Stensrud, an accomplished music educator specializing in elementary music, responsive classroom techniques, and Orff Schulwerk approaches. Matthew shares his journey into music education, including his inspiration from mentors and his passion for creating inclusive and empowering…

Professional Collaboration: You Don’t Need to Do This Work Alone

Episode 81 – Professional Collaboration: You Don’t Need to Do This Work Alone 

Professional Collaboration: You Don’t Need to Do This Work Alone  In episode 81, Kathryn and Theresa reflect on the power of professional collaboration for music educators. Drawing from their own experiences, they discuss how connecting with fellow educators—whether across the country or in the same district—can transform teaching practices, reduce isolation, and foster creativity. They…

Creativity First: Encouraging Musical Exploration

Episode 80 – Creativity First: Encouraging Musical Exploration

Creativity First: Encouraging Musical Exploration In episode 80, we dive into the transformative world of creative music education with Steve Giddings, an innovative music educator and advocate for hands-on, student-driven learning. Steve shares his journey from traditional conservatory training to championing a more dynamic and accessible approach to teaching music. Through his experiences, Steve has…

Episode 79: Motivating Young Musicians: Exploring Self-Determination Theory

Episode 79 – Motivating Young Musicians: Exploring Self-Determination Theory

Motivating Young Musicians: Exploring Self-Determination Theory In episode 79, we welcome Jessie Peterson, a dedicated middle school band director and a passionate advocate for fostering intrinsic motivation in music education. Drawing from her doctoral studies at Clemson University and her extensive teaching experience, Jessie delves into the transformative power of Self-Determination Theory in the classroom….