Inspiring Young Musicians: Passion and Purpose in Music Education


In episode 77, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Grammy Music Educator of the Year, Stephen Cox, as he dives into his unique approach to music education and his latest venture with the Willis Wonderland Foundation. Stephen shares insights from his 14-year teaching career in Texas, where he developed a progressive, student-centered approach to band programs, prioritizing student autonomy, joy, and intrinsic motivation. He also reflects on his journey toward empowering students to lead and make decisions, which transformed his music programs and resulted in both personal and collective growth for his students.


Now, as part of the Willis Wonderland Foundation, Stephen is developing free songwriting resources to further his mission of making music education more accessible and engaging. The foundation, established to honor the legacy of renowned songwriter Allee Willis, provides teachers with tools to inspire students through songwriting and creative expression. Tune in to hear Stephen’s inspiring thoughts on how progressive music education and creative freedom can transform not only classrooms but the lives of young musicians.

I really believe that whenever the drive and the push come from the students, and I'm just there to make it a little more efficient and help them stay organized, that's the winning formula.

Listen to the full interview:

Here are some key insights from Episode 77:

  • Encourage Lifelong Musicianship: Focus on creating musicians who continue making music beyond school, not just temporary performers.
  • Rethink Success: Redefine success by focusing on student growth, passion, and enthusiasm, not just performance outcomes.
  • Empower Student Leadership: Build leadership skills by giving students responsibility in decision-making for rehearsals and performances.
  • Meet Students Where They Are: Tailor your teaching approach to individual student needs and abilities, ensuring everyone feels included.
  • Promote Creativity: Encourage songwriting and improvisation to foster creativity and personal expression in your music classroom.
You have to think about how you're going to define success. If your sense of success is ‘my students are going to be empowered and excited, they're going to practice way more, they're going to have amazing individual results, then the atmosphere is going to be better in the room. You’re going to be happier and they're going to be happier. If those are the results you're focused on, I don't think there's another way to do it other than to empower the students.

Connect with Stephen and learn more:

Resources Suggested by Stephen:

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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