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 instrument and experience the joy and challenges of music-making firsthand. With over 225 participants and a growing waitlist, this thriving program fosters cross-cultural relationships and strengthens bonds between families, educators, and schools in profound ways.
Whether you’re a music teacher looking to build deeper connections with your students’ families or someone curious about innovative approaches to music education, this episode is for you. Annie’s passion and creativity will leave you feeling inspired to reimagine how music can unite communities and empower learners of all ages. Tune in to discover how music, when treated as a gift rather than a product, can truly bring people together in meaningful ways.
Listen to the full interview:
Here are some key insights from Episode 88:
- Building Community – The Parent Orchestra fosters authentic relationships between families and schools, creating a strong, connected musical community.
- Music Is for Everyone – Annie emphasizes that music should be accessible to all, regardless of background, skill level, or experience.
- Learning Together – Parents and caregivers learn alongside their children, deepening empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the musical learning process.
- Embrace Vulnerability – Adults in the orchestra model vulnerability and growth, showing students it’s okay to make mistakes and keep trying.
- Lead with Heart – Annie reminds us that leading with care and connection can be more powerful than focusing solely on performance outcomes.
Connect with Annie and learn more:
- Instagram: @AnnieRay.Sounds
- Website: Motherhood and Music Education
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
