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 learning environments that empower all students. He discusses the importance of moving beyond access to ensure that music opportunities are relevant, sustainable, and meaningful for diverse student populations. Through compelling stories and practical strategies, Felipe challenges traditional norms in music education and encourages teachers to rethink how they structure ensembles, performances, and classroom interactions to better serve all students.
Music educators will find inspiration and actionable steps to make their classrooms more inclusive and student-centered. Felipe emphasizes the importance of culturally sustaining pedagogy, student agency, and breaking down silos between different musical traditions. Whether it’s through shifting performance structures, integrating diverse musical styles, or simply ensuring students have a voice in their learning, this episode provides valuable takeaways for any music teacher looking to foster a more equitable and engaging classroom. Don’t miss this conversation on how small shifts in mindset and practice can lead to lasting change in music education!
Listen to the full interview:
Here are some key insights from Episode 86:
- Student Voice Matters – Creating space for students to speak and contribute fosters engagement, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging.
- Beyond Access – Equity in music education requires not just opportunities but also relevance, sustainability, and meaningful support for all students.
- Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy – Students should have the chance to engage with and transform their heritage music in meaningful, personal ways.
- Rethinking Excellence – The goal isn’t perfection but fostering a deep understanding of music, humanity, and diverse musical expressions.
- Breaking Musical Silos – Encouraging interdisciplinary music-making, like combining strings with singing or technology, expands creative possibilities for students.
Connect with Felipe and learn more:
Other resources from this episode:
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!
You might also enjoy these other episodes:
- Episode 25 – The Power of a Mission Statement, featuring Kevin Feher
- Episode 31 – Creating a Culture for Student Empowerment, featuring Matthew Arau
- Episode 51 – Harmony and Connection: Leveraging SEL in Music Education, featuring Elizabeth Peterson
- Episode 52 – Unleashing Our Impact: Empowering Music Educators, featuring Jen Rafferty
