Creativity, Ownership, and Expression: Exploring Songwriting in Music Class

In Episode 65, Kathryn and Theresa dive into the first part of an enlightening interview with Alex Adams, a seasoned music teacher with 15 years of experience in both private studio and public school teaching. Alex shares his unique journey from teaching in Maine to becoming a teaching artist with the Documentary Songwriters organization, and his current role as a graduate student at Arizona State University. He discusses the significance of integrating songwriting into music education, emphasizing the empowerment it brings to students by allowing them to express their personal experiences and imaginations through music.

Alex highlights the importance of seeing oneself in the music curriculum, the role of creative freedom in songwriting, and the impact of music on building community and cultural understanding. He also addresses common misconceptions about songwriting and the importance of setting appropriate goals and expectations for students’ creative outputs. Stay tuned for the second part of this insightful interview, Episode 66, where we’ll continue exploring the transformative power of songwriting in education.

You have to think about your goals and your limitations…Sometimes people try to engage in songwriting and it sputters out because there's too few limitations. It's too open and free. It's the terror of the blank page.

Listen to the full interview:

Here are some key takeaways from Episode 65:

  • Alex Adams explores the impact of songwriting in education, empowering students to express their unique experiences and imaginations.
  • Integrating creativity in music education bridges student culture with curriculum, making learning relevant and personal.
  • Songwriting in classrooms fosters community, connecting students’ musical creations with their personal and collective stories.
  • Misconceptions about songwriting are debunked, emphasizing its accessibility and value as a tool for expression in education.
The goal is to empower the students to have a creative tool at their disposal.

Connect with Alex and learn more:

Ready for more?

You can check out the full interview on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. Or you can listen right here, on Spotify Podcasts!

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