The Orchestra Teacher Podcast

In episode 94 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are honored to welcome the esteemed Georgia Lambros Ekonomou. With an impressive career spanning decades, Georgia has made a profound impact on string education in Georgia and beyond. As the former director of orchestras at the Paideia School and the Lovett School, she has led ensembles to national and international acclaim.Join us as we discuss her journey as an educator, her approach to student engagement, and her insights into building outstanding orchestral programs. We also explore her experiences as a conductor, clinician, and performer with a variety of renowned ensembles.Whether you’re a seasoned music educator or just beginning your teaching career, this conversation is filled with valuable wisdom and inspiration. Tune in for an engaging discussion with a true leader in string education!

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Georgia Lambros Ekonomou is the former director of orchestras at the Paideia School and the Lovett Schools in Atlanta, Georgia. During her tenure at Lovett, the Lovett Chamber Orchestra performed at the 1990 MENC National Conference in Washington, D.C.; the 1997 Georgia Music Educators Association Conference in Savannah, Georgia; and at the 1997 International Association of Jazz Educators Conference in Atlanta. She is the recipient of the Lovett School’s Woodward Award for excellence in teaching, and the Georgia/ASTA Lifetime Achievement Award in honor and recognition of her contribution to musical excellence in the state of Georgia. In 2006, Ekonomou founded the Atlanta Junior Chamber Orchestra where she served as Artistic Director and Conductor. She is active throughout the United States as a conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in music education from Northwestern University, and a master’s degree in Music Education from Georgia State University. She is a member of ASTA and NAfME and has served in leadership positions at the State level for both organizations.A violinist, she has performed with the Atlanta Opera Orchestra, the Woman’s Jazz Orchestra of Los Angeles, the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra, the Atlanta Chamber Orchestra, the Emory Chamber Players, and other ensembles in the Atlanta area.— REFERRAL LINKS —Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy the experience! https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/Looking for things on Amazon? Use my referral link:https://amzn.to/3RkfRLkDo you keep a monthly budget? If not, try You Need a Budget! It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNABDo you have cable? Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV! It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshiResources and more information at www.orchestrateacher.net#TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast#OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter

I am proud to announce that The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is now sponsored by Kaleidoscope Adventures! As a leader in the student travel industry for 30+ years, Kaleidoscope Adventures exceeds expectations for student and performance group travel.Learn more at https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast

🎻 Episode #92 – Inspiring Excellence in Music Education with Stephen Lawrence-Carroll 🎶

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Lawrence-Carroll, an esteemed music educator and Director of Orchestral and Music Theory Activities at North Atlanta High School in Atlanta, GA. As the Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair, Stephen has been a driving force in shaping the future of music education, earning accolades such as Atlanta Public Schools High School Teacher of the Year, Educator of the Year by ASTA Georgia, and the CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award.

Stephen shares his journey, from his early influences to his passion for orchestral instruction, curriculum development, and advocacy for the arts. We discuss his experiences presenting at major conferences, his role as State Orchestra Chair for GMEA (2021-2023), and how he continues to inspire students and fellow educators alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned orchestra director or just starting your teaching career, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice from one of the best in the field!

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation!

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #StringEducation #OrchestraDirector #StephenLawrenceCarroll #ASTA #GMEA #CMAFoundation

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Stephen Lawrence-Carroll serves as the Director of Orchestral and Music Theory Activities at North Atlanta High School in Atlanta, GA, where his dedication to the arts extends to his role as the Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair. His remarkable contributions to education have garnered numerous accolades, including the distinguished title of Teacher of the Year for the 2018-2019 academic year and High School Teacher of the Year within the Atlanta Public School System. Stephen's passion and expertise have not only been recognized locally but also at the state and national level, with distinctions such as the Educator of the Year by the American String Teacher’s Association Georgia Chapter, the Atlanta Public Schools Fine Arts Teacher Excellence Award, and the prestigious Country Music Awards Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award. In addition to his honors, Stephen has been a prominent figure in music education conferences, sharing his insights at events like the Georgia Music Educators Association Conference, the Texas Music Educators Association Conference, and the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Conference. His dedication extended to serving as the State Orchestra Chair for the Georgia Music Educator's Association from 2021-2023. Stephen Lawrence-Carroll holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Loyola University New Orleans and a Master of Music Education from the University of Georgia.

Contact: slawrencegmea@gmail.com

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Building Bridges: Fostering Collaboration Between Band and Orchestra Directors

In this special episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome two outstanding music educators, Susan Abell and Nick Blue, to discuss the importance of building a collaborative and supportive relationship between band and orchestra directors.

Far too often, band and orchestra programs operate in isolation—or even in competition with each other. But what if we shifted that mindset to one of partnership and mutual support? Susan and Nick will share real-world success stories and tangible strategies for fostering a culture of teamwork that benefits all students and strengthens the entire school music program.

Topics will include:

🎵 How to establish open communication and a shared vision

🎵 Strategies for coordinating schedules and sharing resources

🎵 The educational and logistical benefits of collaboration

🎵 Ideas for joint performances, cross-program events, and team teaching

🎵 Overcoming challenges and shifting mindsets

Whether you’re a middle or high school band or orchestra director, this episode will provide actionable steps to help you break down barriers, build strong connections with your instrumental counterpart, and create a thriving, unified music program.

Tune in for an inspiring and practical discussion on how working together can elevate music education for everyone! 🎻🎺🎶

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Susan Abell, a Bowling Green, KY native, earned her BME and MAE at Western Kentucky University, where she was active in CNAfME, ASTA, Delta Omicron, and served as Orchestra Graduate Assistant under Dr. Bill Scott. She began orchestra programs at Grassland and Brentwood Middle Schools in Tennessee, growing Grassland's program to achieve consistent Superior ratings and numerous Mid-State selections. In 2023, Ms. Abell expanded her role to include teaching at Franklin High School while continuing her work at Grassland Middle School. In  2022, she joined the Vanderbilt Youth Orchestra Program, where she significantly increased student enrollment in the three string orchestras. Ms. Abell now serves as Assistant Orchestra Director at Simpson Middle School in Marietta, Georgia. In her free time, Ms. Abell enjoys being outdoors, playing with her dogs and going to concerts. 

Nicholas Blue is the Assistant Director of Bands at Franklin High School in Franklin, TN. Originally from Indiana, Mr. Blue is a graduate of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Prior to his time at Franklin High School, Mr. Blue was the Director of Bands at Grassland Middle School in Franklin, TN. Ensembles under Mr. Blue’s direction have earned superior ratings at MTSBOA Concert Performance Assessment and other festivals, recently performing at the Belmont University Regional Wind Band Festival sponsored by Music for All. Throughout Mr. Blue’s time with the Franklin Marching Band, the group has been a perennial Bands of America Regional finalist and Grand Nationals Semi Finalist, and was named Grand Champion at the MTSU Contest of Champions in 2024. The band has been invited to perform in the 2026 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.  Blue has presented professional development clinics for the Midwest Clinic, the American String Teachers Association, and the Tennessee Music Education Association, and in 2025 was named a Yamaha “40 Under 40” Music Educator. 

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Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

In this special episode, hosts Charles Laux and Jessica Fuchs dive into their upcoming presentation at the ASTA National Conference:Compare, Contrast, Collaborate: Perspectives from Early and Late Career Experiences.

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of orchestra education through the lens of both new and seasoned educators. We’ll discuss classroom strategies, programming decisions, mentorship, and the role of technology in today’s orchestra programs. With a shared background in Cobb County, Georgia, Charles and Jessie reflect on their unique career journeys and how collaboration between different experience levels can enhance teaching effectiveness.

Whether you’re just starting your career or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of orchestra education. Tune in to hear firsthand perspectives on fostering community, adapting to changing student needs, and navigating the ever-evolving world of music education!

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #ASTA2025 #MusicEducation #StringEd

Jessica Fuchs currently serves as Director of Orchestras at Kell High School in Marietta, GA, where she has been since 2022. Prior to her position at Kell, she served as Orchestra Director at Ola Middle School and Co-Orchestra Director at Dodgen Middle School. Under her direction, the orchestra programs increased in enrollment and repeatedly received superior ratings at LGPE. As an educator, Mrs. Fuchs strives to facilitate a creative, engaging, purposeful, and inclusive learning environment for all students.

A native of Acworth, Georgia, Mrs. Fuchs holds a Bachelor’s of Music Education from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she studied under the guidance of Dr. Rebecca MacLeod and Dr. Fabian Lopez. During her time at UNCG, Mrs. Fuchs held the position of Undergraduate Research Assistant and was the recipient of the Community-Based Undergraduate Research and Creativity Award in 2018. In 2020, her work on “Near-Peer Mentorship: A Model for Private Music Instruction in an Underserved Community” was published in String Research Journal.

Mrs. Fuchs serves as GMEA District 12 Orchestra Chair, GMEA District 12 LGPE Coordinator, sits on the K-12 ASTA Committee and CCSD Fine Arts Advisory Council. She is an active member of GMEA, ASTA, and NafME and is a sought after Violin clinician in the Atlanta area.

EMAIL: Jessica.Fuchs@cobbk12.org

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Amy Clement has taught orchestra in Gwinnett County since 1997. She is currently in her 16th year as one of the orchestra directors at North Gwinnett Middle School. Orchestras under the direction of Ms. Clement have consistently received superior ratings at Large Group Performance Evaluation and her students also participate in solo/ensemble, countywide honor orchestras, MYSO, ASYO and Georgia all-state orchestra. The NGMS orchestra received the GMEA Exemplary Performance Award in 2009, 2015, and the NGMS fine arts department received the first GMEA Music Program of the Year in 2018. Under Ms. Clement’s leadership, the NGMS 8th grade orchestra was selected to perform at the GMEA conference in Athens January of 2024, and Savannah January of 2012. The NGMS honor orchestra was selected to perform at the Midwest Band and Orchestra clinic in December of 2013 and Carnegie Hall in April of 2017.

Ms. Clement has presented at conferences in Georgia, the national ASTA conference in Orlando as well as the Utah Music Educators Association. She has served as a clinician and adjudicator throughout Georgia. Ms. Clement has held leadership positions as Georgia ASTA treasurer, GA ASTA President, was a member of the ASTA K-12 committee (2018-2020), GMEA District 13 orchestra division chair (2010-2012), GMEA District 13 treasurer (2016-2018) and GMEA Vice-President in charge of all state events (2017-2019). She is currently Past President of Georgia ASTA and is one of two middle school orchestra lead teachers for Gwinnett County Public Schools. In 2012, she was awarded GMEA’s Volunteer of the Year.

A native of Louisville, KY, Ms. Clement began studying the violin at age five at the University of Louisville. She is a graduate of Loyola University in New Orleans where she studied violin with Valerie Poullette and string education with Dean Angeles. Ms. Clement received her BM in music performance and MME in string education. She and her husband Andy live in Lawrenceville, Georgia, with their dogs Zoey & Lovey.

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Sarah Ball has been teaching orchestra for twenty-eight years, currently at North Gwinnett Middle School in Sugar Hill, Ga, where she is one of three orchestra directors. The NGMS orchestra program has 600+ students enrolled in grades 6-8. The 8th grade orchestra was selected to perform at GMEA in January (2012 and 2024), and received the GMEA Exemplary Performance Award in 2009 and 2015. In December 2013, the NGMS Honor Orchestra was one of three middle school orchestras selected internationally to perform in Chicago, Illinois at the Midwest Clinic, and has performed at Carnegie Hall.

Mrs. Ball has presented professional development sessions at the school, county, state and national level including the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, national ASTA conference and The Ohio State University String Teacher’s Workshop, and the Habits Institute in Charleston, SC. She is active as a clinician, adjudicator, and conductor throughout the country. Mrs. Ball is on the author team for the new GIA Publication, Habits of a Successful Young String Musician. She is passionate about making learning fun, impactful, and inspiring all while holding students to highs standards. Ball started violin at the age of 10 in the Henderson County (NC) strings program. She currently resides in Johns Creek, Georgia with her husband Jerrod, and their cats, Topsy and Turvy.

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Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast – Special Guest Harrison Cook 🎻

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Harrison Cook, Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Cobb County, Georgia. Now in his ninth year of teaching, Harrison brings a unique perspective to the classroom, having transitioned from a full-time career as a professional cellist to an award-winning educator.

Join us as we dive into his journey—from performing with world-renowned ensembles like the Atlanta Symphony abd the Atlanta Opera to leading outstanding school orchestras that consistently earn superior ratings at LGPE. Harrison shares insights on cello pedagogy, effective teaching strategies, and the intersection of performance and education.

We’ll also explore his experiences performing in over 10 countries, and his success in mentoring students who have gone on to prestigious conservatories. Whether you’re a seasoned educator, a new teacher, or a musician looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Harrison’s story of passion, performance, and pedagogy!

#OrchestraTeacher #MusicEducation #HarrisonCook #Orchestra #Cello #MusicPedagogy

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Harrison is currently the Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Cobb County, Georgia. He is currently in his ninth year of teaching, after having a full career as a professional musician. He has previously directed orchestras as Simpson Middle School and Sprayberry High School, all within Cobb County. His orchestras have consistently scored superior rating at LGPE. He has had the honor of presenting sessions on cello pedagogy, and has performed as a soloist with several orchestras and choirs at the annual Georgia Music educators Association conference.

Harrison received his BA from Georgia State University and his Masters in Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University for cello performance. He has played in various professional ensembles including the Atlanta Symphony, Atlanta Opera, Atlanta Ballet, Greenville Symphony, and many others. As a performer, Harrison has had the opportunity to play around the world in over 10 countries, including performances in Italy, Monaco, and a solo tour in China. In addition to his symphonic work, Harrison is an active member of the Atlanta music scene, doing studio work for films, games, and performing artists. Harrison has a robust private studio, with students consistently performing at All State and Honor Orchestra, attending summer institutes such as Brevard, Franklin Pond, Suwanee, and Interlochen, as well as universities such as Peabody Conservatory, Indiana University, Cincinnati Conservatory, and the Cleveland Institute of Music.

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Weekend Preview!!

Some fantastic episodes coming this weekend! A trifecta of greatness -- college, high school, and middle school specialists!!

Friday is Dr. David Pope from Baldwin Wallace University. Saturday I have Christine Gero who is orchestra director in Seattle, Washington. Then on Sunday is the incredible Angela Harman, Orchestra Director at Maple Grove Middle School in Utah and author of www.OrchestraClassroom.com! Tune in, like, and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!

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Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Ben McWhorter is the orchestra teacher at Tates Creek High School in Lexington, Kentucky. Known for his professional, engaging, and collaborative approach to teaching, Ben’s orchestras have consistently earned “Distinguished” ratings at district performance assessments during his 19 year tenure. In 2023, Ben implemented a middle school mentoring program, with high school orchestra musicians providing individual instruction to over 50 younger students. This has significantly increased student achievement at both schools and fostered a strong connection between the two programs. Ben secured a grant in 2024 to provide weekly professional chamber music coaching to over 30 of his students, leading to significant growth in their musicianship and fostering a strong sense of collaboration and ensemble.Ben is passionate about the transformative power of string education. He works to ensure that all students have access to orchestra instruction and a wide variety of musical experiences to develop their love of music. An active member of the string education community, Ben served as President of the Kentucky ASTA from 2012-2014 and as a member of the KMEA String Council from 2008-2012. During his tenure on the KMEA String Council, he played a key role in developing a new graded string orchestra list. He is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences, including the 2024 and upcoming 2025 ASTA Conferences.Ben holds a B.M. in Music Education from the University of Louisville and M.M.E. in Music Teacher Education from The Ohio State University. He also has received specialized training in the pedagogical practices of George Bornoff. His professional interests include strengthening music literacy, implementing learner-centered instruction, and utilizing effective assessment practices within the instrumental music classroom.Ben lives in Lexington with his wife, Hillary, their son Charlie, and their three cats.Ben can be reached at: Ben.mcwhorter@fayette.kyschools.us---Please follow/like/subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel or browse ideas and resources on my website!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/ Looking for things on Amazon? Use my referral link:https://amzn.to/3RkfRLkDo you keep a monthly budget? If not, try You Need a Budget! It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnowDo you have cable? Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV! It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi--#TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast#OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter

Thomas Chen is Director of Orchestras at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. Under his direction, the Carmel High School Symphony Orchestra earned regular appearances at the Indiana State School Music Association State High School Concert Finals, produced a recording of Dvorak Symphony No. 9, and performed at The Midwest Clinic in 2019 and 2024. Chen previously held the position of Assistant Director at Dobie High School in Houston, Texas, where he helped lead five orchestras to earn Superior ratings at UIL Concert and Sight Reading.In addition to public school teaching, Chen is Associate Conductor with the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra’s Symphony Orchestra. Chen has performed as a guest conductor with the Purdue University Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Ohio Wesleyan University Summer Music Camp, and Wright State University Fall Strings Festival.Chen earned his Bachelor of Music Education from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where he studied viola with Dr. Nicole Brockmann. While completing his studies, he earned opportunities to perform in masterclasses with the American String Quartet and Joan Tower.Chen is a proud member of the American String Teachers Association and National Association for Music Education. He currently serves as Orchestra Division Chair with the Indiana Music Education Association and President-Elect with the Indiana Chapter of the American String Teachers Association.----Please follow/like/subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel or browse ideas and resources on my website!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/ Looking for things on Amazon? Use my referral link:https://amzn.to/3RkfRLkDo you keep a monthly budget? If not, try You Need a Budget! It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnowDo you have cable? Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV! It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi

This the LAST episode for 2024! Thank you for the support this year! A ton of great content coming your way in 2025!About episode #80...Lauren Roznowski Hayden works for Longfellow Middle School, as orchestra teacher to more than 315 students. She has been a public school teacher for over 17 years, teaching orchestra at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She has taught in the Wauwatosa School District for six years, which as an alumna of the district herself, is a dream come true. Prior to her current position, Lauren worked as Director of Learning in Music for the Kettle Moraine School District, as well as teaching orchestra and interdisciplinary music-based seminars. Lauren is also a music director for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, serving as conductor of the Sinfonia Orchestra, an audition-based group made up of one hundred 4th-10th grade student musicians in Southeastern Wisconsin. Lauren has a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Viola Performance from Lawrence University, and a Master of Music in Interdisciplinary Arts in Music Education from Northwestern University. She has maintained her National Board Certification in Music Education for more than ten years, and holds a principal license as well. In 2024, Lauren was honored with a Kohl Teaching Fellowship, and a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching (DAST). As a Fulbrighter, Lauren collaborated with Victoriano Lopez Escuela de Musica, living and working in San Pedro Sula Honduras for six weeks in the summer of 2024. Lauren is a lifelong resident of Wauwatosa, WI, and lives there with her husband, Mike (also an orchestra teacher), and their two daughters. She is very involved in her community, serving as president of the Wauwatosa Library Board of Trustees, and leader of two Girl Scout Troops. In her free time, Lauren loves to travel with her family, and spend time outdoors kayaking, hiking, and camping. She also loves to read, cook, and paint. --Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/ Looking for things on Amazon? Use my referral link:https://amzn.to/3RkfRLkDo you keep a monthly budget? If not, try You Need a Budget! It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnowDo you have cable? Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV! It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Rachael Keplin—a versatile violist, string educator, and free improviser—for a deep dive into the world of free improvisation, mindfulness, and their transformative impact on learning to play stringed instruments.Dr. Keplin shares her unique approach to fostering creativity and connection through free improvisation, offering insights into how mindfulness can enhance student engagement and musical growth. Dr. Keplin shares a few practical classroom strategies for integrating these concepts into both group and studio teaching environments, making this episode a must-listen for educators looking to inspire their students in new and innovative ways.🎶 About Dr. Rachael KeplinDr. Keplin serves as Associate Principal for the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra and frequently performs with ensembles like the North Carolina Opera and North Charleston Pops. A passionate chamber musician, she co-founded the contemporary ensembles Chamber Brews and Sounding Board, championing new music and non-classical genres.Beyond performance, Rachael creates her own music using a Boss RC-600 loop station, performing solo looper shows throughout North Carolina. Recently awarded the ACGC Artist Grant, she’s currently producing her debut album. Her dissertation, Mindfulness and Free Improvisation, has been presented at national conferences, and she continues to integrate these practices into her teaching at Wake Forest University and The Music Academy of North Carolina.🎧 Tune in to learn how mindfulness and improvisation can transform your teaching and your students’ musical journeys! Watch on YouTube at https://youtu.be/nSGJHmQ6eAQ

For more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net

Read Dr. Keplin’s dissertation here: https://f051af03-d154-425f-bf90-05257cf0f8b0.filesusr.com/ugd/23e7a7_4a185ff0626c482890f9ed8f5c274cfc.pdf

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

In this heartfelt episode, I reunite with three remarkable former Alpharetta High School Orchestra students—Jason Juang, Kacie Xie, and Sarang Pujari—as they share their orchestra journeys and how those experiences have shaped their collegiate years and budding careers. From concert stages to cutting-edge innovation, their stories highlight the transformative power of music education and the lifelong impact of creative collaboration.

Jason Juang, a Georgia Tech alumnus and Henry Luce Scholar, is now a climate change researcher at the Delta Electronics Foundation in Taipei, Taiwan. A former cellist with 7 years of orchestra experience, Jason reminisces about his middle and high school music days and how impromptu college jam sessions with his roommate kept his love for music alive.

Kaci Xie, a recent Yale graduate in Computing and the Arts and Education Studies, reflects on her time as a violist and how it fueled her passion for early childhood education and her involvement with the Yale Symphony Orchestra. Now the founder of Cimu, a startup helping fashion retailers reduce returns, Kacie shares how the discipline and creativity she cultivated in orchestra continue to inspire her entrepreneurial and educational endeavors.

Sarang Pujari, a dual-degree recipient in Computer Science from Georgia Tech, recalls his rich musical background, including six years in All-State, performing with the Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, and his time in Georgia Tech's Symphony Orchestra. Now a software engineer in Miami, Sarang discusses how his orchestra experience instilled teamwork and focus—skills he carries into his career in tech.Join us as we explore how their time in the orchestra prepared them for success, nurtured their passions, and created lifelong memories.

Whether you're a music enthusiast, educator, or former performer, this episode celebrates the enduring influence of music education on personal and professional growth. 🎻✨Also watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YnIvEhgDNXk

For resources and more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net#OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #OrchestraLife #studentsuccess #orchestraalumni #musiceducationmatters #StringsInspiration #ArtsEducation #MusicMatters

A trailer about upcoming episodes featuring some incredible former students! You won't want to miss them! Friday, December 6 - Episode #78 with Sarang Pujari, Kaci Xie, and Jason Juang Sunday, December 8 - Episode #79 with Dr. Rachael Keplin

In episode #77 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are joined by Vinny Conrod, Director of Orchestras at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL, and President of the Florida chapter of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA). With years of experience teaching at both the middle and high school levels, Vinny shares his journey of opening a brand-new high school orchestra program, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of starting from scratch, building a strong program, and fostering a positive culture for both students and staff.Vinny has led orchestras to prestigious events such as the ASTA National Orchestra Festival, the Florida Music Education Association’s State Conference, and the Texas Music Educators Association State Conference. His passion for music education and his commitment to excellence have made him a standout figure in the field.Tune in for this exciting conversation and hear more about Vinny’s innovative approach to teaching, leadership, and growing a thriving orchestra program at a brand-new school.--About Vinny Conrod...Vinny Conrod is the Director of Orchestras at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL, and serves as President of the Florida ASTA chapter. Previously, Mr. Conrod taught Orchestra at Lake Nona High School (Orange County Public Schools - Orlando, FL), Doerre Intermediate School (Klein Independent School District - Houston, TX) and Avalon Middle School (Orange County Public Schools - Orlando, FL).Orchestras under Mr. Conrod’s direction have performed at the ASTA National Orchestra Festival, Florida Music Education Association's State Conference, and Texas Music Educators Association State Conference. Mr. Conrod holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education with a minor in Performing Arts Administration, and a Master’s of Arts in Music with a concentration in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Central Florida.#OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #OrchestraLife #TeachingTips #TeacherVoices #StringPedagogy #CreativeTeachers #MusicTeacherTribe #ProfessionalDevelopment #OrchestraClassroom #OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #TeacherInterviews #OrchestraTeacher #CreativeTeachers #ListenAndLearn

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I sit down with the legendary Bob Phillips, an innovator in string education, composer, and conductor, whose work has shaped the landscape of string music education. Known for his pioneering contributions to large group pedagogy and eclectic styles for strings, Bob has written over 25 book series and more than 225 published works for orchestras and bands, reaching thousands of students each year. Bob reflects on his remarkable career, which includes building a nationally recognized string program in Saline, MI, directing the internationally acclaimed Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic, and performing at venues like the White House and The Midwest Clinic. He shares his experiences as an educator, from teaching string students in the classroom to conducting youth symphonies and leading educational initiatives for organizations like the Great Lakes Music Camp. Throughout the conversation, Bob discusses the importance of diversity in repertoire, the role of eclectic music in fostering student engagement, and the strategies that made his programs thrive. He also shares insights on his long-standing work as a teacher trainer, clinician, and his passion for giving back to the music community. With a career spanning more than four decades, including numerous honors such as multiple "Teacher of the Year" awards, induction into the University of Michigan School of Music Hall of Fame, and the Distinguished Service Award from the American String Teachers Association, Bob Phillips is a true leader in music education. Join us for an inspiring discussion about the evolution of string education, the power of diverse musical styles, and the impact of passionate teaching on students' lives. Perfect for: Orchestra teachers, string educators, composers, conductors, and anyone interested in innovative approaches to music education and performance. #OrchestraTeacher#MusicEducation#OrchestraLife#TeachingMusic#StringEducation#OrchestraEducation#MusicTeachers#EducatorsOfInstagram#OrchestraDirector#MusicClassroom#StringsClass#TeachingStrings#MusicTeachersOfInstagram#YouthOrchestra#BandAndOrchestra#StringPedagogy#OrchestraCommunity#MusicTeacherLife

In this 75th episode, I sit down with Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli, an award-winning music educator and director of orchestras at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, CA. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions and a wealth of experience in both orchestra and choral music, Tiffany shares her insights on what it takes to build successful, high-performing music programs.From her academic journey to her leadership roles as President of the California Orchestra Directors Association and Secretary of the American String Teachers Association, Tiffany discusses the importance of mentorship, student self-efficacy, and the role of diversity in the repertoire.

Under Tiffany’s leadership, the Henry M. Gunn High School Orchestras have consistently earned superior ratings at festivals, performed at prestigious national conferences, and even earned the title of "Grand Champions" at the 2024 Orchestra Cup National Championships. But it's not just about the accolades—Tiffany's commitment to the growth of her students as musicians and individuals is at the heart of her teaching philosophy.Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the intersection of music education, leadership, and the power of music to transform lives.

-- Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli teaches orchestra at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, CA. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli holds a B.A. in Music Education (viola) from the University of California, Los Angeles. She earned her master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Michigan, where her research focused on group composition and student musical self-efficacy in the middle school orchestra classroom. In the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, she studied viola with Richard O’Neill, and received her teaching credential from the UCLA Teacher Education Program. Her ensembles at Gunn High School and previously at Fletcher Middle School, consistently receive superior ratings at festivals. Under Ms. Ou-Ponticelli’s direction, the Henry M. Gunn High School Orchestras have performed at conferences including the Midwest Clinic International Band & Orchestra Conference (2022), the American String Teachers Association National Orchestra Festival (2018), and were named “Grand Champions” at the Orchestra Cup National Orchestra Championships (2024). Ms. Ou-Ponticelli currently serves as President of the California Orchestra Directors Association (CODA), as Secretary of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) national Board of Directors, and as Website Editor for California Music Educators Association (CMEA) Bay Section. She has also held positions as CODA All-State Orchestras Coordinator, CODA Secretary, CMEA Bay Section Orchestra Representative, and has served as a member of the American String Teacher’s Journal Editorial Committee. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli has presented at state and national conferences including ASTA and CASMEC, and has been an invited conductor for county- and state-level honor ensembles. She was the recipient of the 2022 CMEA Bay Section Outstanding Orchestra Educator Award, and the 2023 CMEA State Richard L. Levin Orchestra Educator Award.Ms. Ou-Ponticelli is an active clinician, guest conductor, violist, and vocalist in the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to her orchestral background, she is a lifelong choral singer and currently performs as an alto with the San Francisco Symphony Chorus. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli holds a Level III Orff Certification and is an advocate for incorporating Orff pedagogy in the secondary ensemble setting. Her research interests include musical self-efficacy, repertoire diversity, and solfège singing for instrumentalists.

This short trailer podcast briefly explains why I haven't created any new episodes in a few months. Good news is that there is more to come, so stay tuned!

An innovative music educator and accomplished musician, composer, conductor and performer, Ron Castonguay was named Director of the Arts and Music Director at The Frederick Gunn School in 2019. Ron teaches all levels of Vocal Ensemble, String Ensemble, and Concert Jazz Band as well as AP Music Theory and provides private music instruction. He is responsible for the leadership and development of the school’s Visual and Performing Arts programs and champions the growth and integration of the arts and community through the new Thomas S. Perakos Arts and Community Center. As a result of these efforts, the school has developed collaborations and maintains partnerships with local arts organizations, including Pilobolus, Sherman Chamber Ensemble, the Litchfield Jazz Festival and Litchfield Jazz Camp. Prior to his arrival at Gunn, Ron served for 23 years as Department Chair for the Performing Arts and Music Director for grades 9 through 12 at Gulliver Preparatory School in Miami, Florida. There, he created and directed the school's String Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo and Vocal Ensemble. His ensembles performed at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the Strathmore Center for the Performing Arts and other notable venues, and consistently earned top marks at district, state and national music festivals. Ron holds a bachelor's degree in music theory and composition from the University of Miami (Florida). He is a professional saxophonist, experienced conductor and published composer. He conducted the professional run of “Into the Woods” at the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center in Miami in 2015 and performed an alto saxophone solo with the Miami Symphony on Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Ron’s compositions have been performed numerous times and span a wide array of ensemble genres, from instrumental to choral, and in all musical idioms, from classical to contemporary to jazz. His compositions are currently available at JWPepper.com and LeapYearMusic.com. One of his choral works, Trust In The Mercy Of Your God, was debuted by the University of Miami Chorale under the direction of Jo-Michael Scheibe, and a concert of Castonguay's compositions and arrangements were presented at the University of Miami's Gusman Hall in 2009. Most recently, Ron released his new book, "Rhythmic Sight-Reading: The Tik-A Tee Method," on March 15, 2024. It is a 172-page spiral bound method book for any and every ensemble, focusing only on rhythm and time signatures, from basic to advanced, with over 346 practice exercises, all accompanied by over 363 supplemental MP3s. Learn more at https://www.roncastonguay.com/ Ron has been, or is currently, an active member of the National Association for Music Education, American String Teachers Association, Connecticut Music Educators’ Association, Jazz Education Network, Florida Orchestra Association, Florida Vocal Association, Florida Bandmasters’ Association, Florida Music Educators’ Association, Florida American String Teachers Association, and the Florida Schools Music Association. As a saxophonist, Ron has released two self-produced CDs of original music in the contemporary jazz genre; 1998’s Subtle Touch and On The Right Track, released in 2008. He is also a studio musician, most recently performing all of the saxophone parts on Kate Nauta’s Holiday LP. Ron’s music is available on Pandora, Spotify, iTunes, and CDBaby. He performs live as a solo artist as well as a member of a jazz duo called Perfect Manhattan, and two jazz/blues/funk bands called Front Burner and The Roxtones. Ron is available as a commissioned composer (any idiom), a guest conductor (any genre), and a professional saxophonist (classical or jazz). ​Ron resides in Washington, CT, with his wife, Melissa, and their two daughters, Siena and Summer. Contact Ron at: Ron@RonCastonguay.com

Ms. Billings-White is honored to be one of four the strings specialists in the Lexington Public Schools. She is currently the only itinerant teacher at the elementary schools, both middle schools and high School. Ms. Billings-White is an active director, strings teacher and performer in the Greater Boston area. She earned a Bachelors degree of Music in Cello Performance from McGill University and a Master's degree of Music in Cello Performance, Graduate Performance Diploma in String Performance, and a Master's degree of Music in Music Education from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Ms. Billings-White is a member of NAfME, the National Association for Music Education; ASTA (the American String Teachers Association; and MA-ASTA, the Massachusetts Chapter of the American String Teachers Association where she is now past President, Secretary and webmaster. She started her teaching career as a K-5 general music teacher in the New Bedford public school district. After that, she started her full time strings teaching career in the Ipswich Public Schools teaching students grades 5-12 and directing their orchestra ensembles. Additionally, Ms. Billings-White is on the Faculty in the Music Education Department at the Longy School of Music of Bard College where she teaches a Strings Method II class. Her musical background also included Trumpet and French Horn during her middle and high school years in Update New York. Other interests include sight-reading parties, musical theater gigs, going on adventures with her husband and three children, making sure her two French Bulldogs (Bear and Bianca) are not tearing up the house, enjoying chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream whenever possible and indoor rock climbing at Central Rock Gyms all over Massachusetts.
jbillingswhite@lexingtonma.org

A graduate of Butler University in 2002, Heather Nieto is in her twenty-first year as a music educator. She started her career at Belzer Middle School in Lawrence Township, Indianapolis, Indiana, where she taught elementary and junior high string orchestra for eighteen years. Heather also served as the Belzer Middle School Performing Arts Department Chair and Lawrence Central High School Assistant Orchestra Director. During her time in Lawrence, Heather sat on various committees including the Performing Arts Curriculum Redesign, Equity and Access Committee, and the Lawrence Township Performing Arts Council. While always looking to expand performance opportunities for her students, Heather co-founded the Lawrence Township Honor Orchestra performing at Disney World and the Belzer PopZ Orchestra performing for various school games and community events. Her groups have been invited to perform for the ASTA National Orchestra Festival as well as IMEA Honor Orchestra Ensembles. Additionally, Heather was named the Belzer Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2018 and recognized in four different years by Top 30 Seniors as an honored educator. 

The 2023-2024 school year marks Heather’s third year as the Director of Orchestras for Hamilton Southeastern High School. In just a few short years, Heather has worked with Associate Director, Charles Kunz to create a culture that promotes respect, fosters pride, and inspires excellence with the Southeastern orchestras. During her first year she led the Southeastern Symphony Orchestra to ISSMA State Finals for the first time in the history of the program and she continues to hold the program to a high standard of performance.

Volunteering her time beyond the classroom, Heather has spent time working with DePauw University as a part of their Unit Assessment System Review Committee in addition to their Music and Teacher Education Program. She has presented sessions at DePauw, IMEA, and INASTA and was a featured clinician for the String Teacher Workshop at the Luebke String Festival in 2019. 

Heather currently serves as President for the Indiana chapter of the American String Teachers Association, where she works to support orchestra directors across the state of Indiana. During her time with INASTA Heather has continued to grow the chapter and event opportunities for its members. She continues to advocate for string education and maintains a focus on creating opportunities for members to communicate, collaborate and support one another.

Heather currently lives in Noblesville with her husband, Victor, two children, Sophia (13) and Ivan (9) and their dog, Hachi.

hnieto@hse.k12.in.us

Adrian Gordon is an internationally performed composer and seasoned music educator. In addition to teaching, Mr. Gordon is a composer with Alfred Music as well as the founder of Leap Year Music Publishing, which publishes string music for elementary, middle, and high school ensembles. His compositions appear on the California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, and Texas Orchestra Association Music Performance Reading Lists. He is also the author of the book Note to Self; A Music Director’s Guide for Transitioning to a New School and Building a Thriving Music Program. Adrian received his B.A. in music from the University of Miami, and his master’s degree in music education at Florida International University. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Adrian currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with his wife and their two sons and serves as the Director of Orchestras at Providence Day School. Mr. Gordon can be reached via his website at https://www.adriangordonmusic.com/

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Dr. Rachel Dirks (Ep. 64) Dr. Rachel Dirks, Director of Orchestral Studies at Kansas State University, is an active conductor, clinician, researcher, and teacher. In addition to her work with the K-State Symphony Orchestra, she teaches graduate and undergraduate string education and conducting courses, and applied cello. She has collaborated with orchestras throughout the United States, most recently in New York, Georgia, Hawaii, and Minnesota. As a featured clinician and educator, she has presented her research for numerous music education conferences within the United States and Europe. A Kansas native, Dr. Dirks holds cello performance degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and Bethel College, and a Ph.D. in music education, with an emphasis in orchestral conducting, from the University of Kansas. Her current research surrounding the mental wellbeing of music students and teachers is published in numerous books, periodicals, and online resources. She also serves as the current chair of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Health and Wellness Committee. Throughout her experiences as a conductor and educator, her fundamental goal is to encourage musicians to seek and create community through music. You can contact Dr. Dirks at rdirks@ksu.edu. -- For orchestra teacher resources and more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net -- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262 — Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information. ——— Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.  AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here: https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899

Rosie Riquelme Antunez, Director of Orchestras at Decatur High School, received her Bachelors of Music Education degree from Georgia College and State University where she was a student of Dr. Daniel Kaplunas. Rosie received her Masters of Music Education from the University of West Georgia through their online program and continued her own violin studies with Curtis Institute Alumni, Mrs. Valerie Gardner in Winder, GA. In 2019, Rosie became a Level 1 & Level 2 Google Certified Educator. Rosie received her Specialist Degree in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University in May 2021. Rosie regularly serves as a guest clinician for various honor orchestras and schools around metro Atlanta, and has served as one of the counselors for the Encore! Summer Music Camp and the Atlanta Chamber Music Festival. This school year is Rosie’s thirteenth year teaching orchestra and first year at Decatur High School. While teaching at Collins Hill (2011-2023), all orchestras consistently received straight superior ratings at the annual Large Group Performance Evaluation. In addition to earning straight super ratings, the Collins Hill Chamber Orchestra also regularly received perfect scores at LGPE. In 2016 the Collins Hill High School Chamber Orchestra was selected to perform at the national ASTA conference, and in 2017 was selected to perform at the Georgia Music Educators Association conference. Rosie has also been presenting regularly over the last two years on instructional uses for technology in the classroom. She presented at the Gwinnett Digital Learning Conference in June 2019, GMEA in January 2020, the GA-ASTA conference in September 2020, among other local professional developments in her school and county. As a violinist, she has performed with various groups including the Georgia Philharmonic, Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra, Gwinnett County Chamber Orchestra, and the Georgia Symphony Orchestra. Rosie has had the honor or performing with various performing artists including Josh Groban, Michael Buble, Disturbed, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Ashanti Floyd otherwise known as “The Mad Violinist”. Currently, she regularly performs with the Emerald Empire Band playing for various events around Atlanta. Rosie currently resides in Atlanta, GA with her husband, Jorge. She was born in Venezuela. She enjoys salsa dancing, traveling, paddle boarding, and spending time with her cats. Website: https://sites.google.com/view/dhsorchestra/home Checkmark Assessment Spreadsheet Template: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19woIt7qesTwIZjaOHtfhWeouMH10SNhSgZG6iuQj_kA/copy (will allow you to save your own copy!) Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information. -- Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.  AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission Donate here: https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=2833292

I hope everyone is having a great back to school season! I know it's a crazy busy time for everyone with assigning instruments, open house, parent meetings, and more.

I'm looking to compile a back to school checklist and would love your feedback. What's on your back to school list?? Reach out to me at charles@orchestrateacher.net and let me know your essential "to do's!"

Future guests include Jean Lee from Michigan State University, Rosie Riquelme Antunez, from Decatur High School in Georgia.

If you have a guest you'd like to see on the OTP or if you'd like to be on the show, please let me know!

Please donate to Charles’ charity!!

Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.  AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:

* Funding scientific research

* Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention

* Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention

* Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission

You can learn more about Charles’ fundraiser and donate here:

https://supporting.afsp.org/participant/2833292

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Katie Eakes (Ep. 60)Katie Eakes is Alaskan native musician and educator. She recently completed her 17th year teaching in the Anchorage School District. She is a graduate of East High School in Anchorage and Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where she received a bachelors degree in music education. At TTU, Mrs. Eakes was a part of the Texas Tech String Project pre-teaching program and specializes in working with first, second, and third year string students. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Eakes is an active performer on Double Bass. While in Texas, she was tenured member of the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra. In Alaska she has served as a member of of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra for 17 years, currently serving as Assistant Principal Double Bass, and performs with the Anchorage Opera where she serves as Principal Double Bass. Her leadership roles include serving as the Elective Department Chair, and the Co-Founder and Coordinator for the School Showcase. Mrs. Eakes also has a private bass studio, plays bass guitar with a reunion band, and serves as a studio and remote recording musician. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, her dogs, and her plants, and focusing on physical fitness. Link: https://www.youtube.com/@katiepidgeoneakes1788