The Co-Constructed Curriculum: Embracing Student Voice in Music Education
In episode 97, Theresa and Kathryn talk with Chris Ricketts, music educator, curriculum leader, and doctoral researcher from Portsmouth, UK. Chris shares insights from his work across nine schools in the Bohunt Education Trust, where he focuses on curriculum development, student voice, and building inclusive, co-constructed learning experiences that reflect students’ real musical lives. He discusses the challenges of engaging students in music beyond the compulsory years, the role of teacher autonomy, and how authentic student choice can transform classroom culture.
Chris also reflects on his research and international experiences, including presenting at the Association for Popular Music Education Conference in the U.S. We explore practical ways to embed student voice—through songwriting, peer feedback, ensemble work, and co-constructed projects—and the importance of balancing autonomy with structure. Whether you’re teaching in a traditional ensemble or experimenting with modern band, Chris offers thought-provoking ideas and actionable strategies for amplifying student voices and making music education more relevant, engaging, and empowering.
Listen to the full interview:
Here are some key takeaways from Episode 97:
- Student Voice: Empowering students with authentic choices in music fosters deeper engagement, creativity, and critical thinking.
- Teaching Autonomy: Educators need freedom in curriculum design to adapt lessons that truly meet students’ diverse musical backgrounds.
- Co-Constructed Learning: Building curriculum with students ensures relevance, inclusivity, and stronger connections to their lived musical experiences.
- Rehearsal Skills: Teaching students how to rehearse independently develops collaboration, diplomacy, and lifelong musicianship beyond the classroom.
- Meaningful Choice: Structured freedom prevents tokenism, guiding students to explore music that reflects identity and cultural relevance.
Connect with Chris and learn more:
- Facebook: Chris Ricketts
- Website: Music Curriculum: A Blog on Music Education, Music Curriculum, Teaching and Studying
Links from this episode:
- Join the Coffee Club
- Support Pass the Baton
- Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection
- Instagram – @PasstheBatonMusicEd
Coffee Club Members: be sure to check out the bonus material available for this episode! Not a member? Join today → Pass the Baton Coffee Club
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 62 – The Kids Come First: Student Ownership in Ensembles, featuring Kathleen Jacoby
- Episode 90 – Throw Away the Rubric: Ungrading the Music Room, featuring Chris Gleason
- Episode 77 – Inspiring Young Musicians: Passion and Purpose in Music Education, featuring Stephen Cox
- Episode 85 – Fostering Lifelong Learning through Reflective Partnerships, featuring Merlin Thompson
