The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast: Music Education
By Jessica Peresta
Hi, I’m Jessica, and it’s my passion to help elementary music teachers, just like you, figure out your unique teaching style. In this podcast, I'll share helpful tips and strategies, work-home life balance tips, and mindset blocks, while helping give you the motivation you need to gain momentum in your teaching so you can continue being the music teacher rock star you already are.
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The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast: Music EducationMar 11, 2020
294 - Jamaican Music in Orff with Javel Perriel
In this episode, we delve into the rich connections between Jamaican music and the Orff approach, with our guest, Javel Perriel.
Javel shares his unique journey of integrating these elements in his music teaching practice. From discussing how he uses reggae music in his Orff instruction to explaining the creation of his book, which beautifully merges STEM science, technology, engineering, and math with music and literacy, Javel provides valuable insights. He also offers advice to music teachers on incorporating cultural music into their classrooms and incorporating STEM into their music lessons.
This is a must-listen for teachers seeking innovative ways to enrich their music classrooms.
Get more of Javel here:
Grab a copy of his book here
Check out more of his stuff here
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293- What's Worked Well This School Year
In this episode, I go a little bit anecdotal and take you on a reflective journey through this school year. Throughout the episode, I discussed strategies that worked well in my music teaching, from integrating various teaching methods to building strong relationships with students, as well as the importance of planning and how it contributes to smoother lessons and performances.
This episode serves as a valuable resource for music teachers like me out there looking for practical tips and inspiration for their next school year.
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292- Bucket Drumming to Food Beats with Jesse Mell and Travien Bryson
In this episode of The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast, we have a fun and educational chat with Jesse Mell and Travien Bryson about the awesome and effective music teaching method of bucket drumming.
The discussion covers the ins and outs of their unique teaching method, using food rhythms to teach complex syncopation to beginners, and the importance of tactile learning experiences. They also explore their new book and curriculum, which brings bucket drumming into classrooms, community centers, and churches, opening up an exciting new pathway for both music teachers and non-music teachers alike.
Our guests are two veteran Philadelphia school district teachers - Jesse Mell and Travien Bryson - who joined forces in 2021 to create a math learning system that would help Black and Brown kids close the achievement gap. Food bEatz is a proprietary learning system that helps kids master addition and multiplication with rapping, beat-making, and competitive game play.
Check out more of their stuff here: Instagram
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291- Preparing for a Music Teaching Interview
In this episode, we delve into the key aspects of preparation for a music teaching interview.
From understanding how to discuss your teaching philosophies and methodologies to the importance of researching the school you're interviewing for, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Whether you're a fresh graduate or an experienced teacher looking to make a move, these strategies will equip you for your next music teaching interview.
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290- Teaching in the U.S. as a Foreign Teacher with Lewis Baez
In this episode, we welcome guest Lewis Baez, who shares his unique perspective and experiences teaching in the U.S. as a foreign teacher. Lewis discusses the challenges and rewards of navigating a new educational system and culture, the importance of establishing a strong support system, and the strategies he uses to effectively connect with his students. This episode provides valuable insights for any educators who are new to teaching in a different cultural context and offers strategies for building strong relationships with students and colleagues.
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- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
289- Implementing What You Learn at Music Education Conferences
In this episode, we talk all about implementing what you learn from music education conferences. I explore ways to effectively absorb, organize, and apply the knowledge gained from these events.
The episode emphasizes the importance of reflecting on conference learnings, connecting the dots between problems and solutions, and the courage to try new ideas in the classroom. Whether you're attending your first conference or you're a seasoned attendee, this episode offers valuable insights on making the most out of your conference experience.
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288- Co-Teaching in the Music Room with Linzie Mullins and Betsy Carter
In this episode, we are joined by Linzie Mullins and Betsy Carter to talk about the concept of co-teaching in the music room.
Linzie and Betsy share their experiences, discussing how they navigate managing a large number of students, balance responsibilities, and build a productive learning environment.
Whether you're co-teaching or not, this episode offers valuable insights on enhancing the learning experience in a music classroom.
- Follow more of Linzie and Betsy's story here
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287- Teaching Music with the Orff Schulwerk Approach with Tiffany English
In this episode, we delve into the Orff Schulwerk approach to teaching music with our guest, Tiffany English.
Tiffany shares her experiences and practical advice on implementing the Orff approach, and we discuss how it can contribute to effective teaching.
Tiffany also provides invaluable insights into the challenges, rewards, and strategies for incorporating students' own creativity in music lessons. This episode is a must-listen for music teachers seeking to enrich their teaching techniques and create a more engaging, dynamic music learning environment.
Get more of the American Orff-Schulwerk Association here:
- www.aosa.orghttps://www.facebook.com/americanorffschulwerkassociation
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/aosadg
- Follow them on Instagram or X
Check out our latest blog post here
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286- 5 Steps to Being a Conference Presenter
In this episode, we will be talking all about conference presenting and how to prepare for it. We broke it down into five manageable steps for the listeners to follow.
This episode is full of tips and strategies to help you successfully nail your next presentation. Whether you're considering presenting at a conference for the first time or looking to refine your presentation skills, this episode is packed with valuable advice and guidance.
Check out latest blog post here
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285 - Utilizing AI in Music Education with Priten Shah
In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with guest Priten Shah about the use of AI in music education. Shah, an expert in AI, provides insights into how this technology can be used in the classroom to enhance teaching and learning experiences.
We discuss the potential of AI in areas as well as its ethical implications. This conversation is a must-listen for educators interested in the intersection of technology and music education.
Connect with Priten here:
check out his website - https://pritenshah.com/
connect with him on LinkedIn
Check out new blog post here
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284- Ways to Thrive as an Introverted Music Teacher
In this episode, we tackle the unique challenges and strengths of introverted music teachers. I share personal experiences, strategies for managing overwhelming situations, and tips for creating quiet spaces within the busy environment of a school. If you're an introverted music teacher, make sure to tune in to get a valuable guide to balance your needs with the demands of our profession.
Check out blog post here
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283- Using an Entrepreneurial Mindset in Teaching
In this episode, we discussed the benefits and challenges of applying entrepreneurial thinking in the classroom. I share personal experiences and lessons learned from managing a business and teaching simultaneously. Tune in to explore how these entrepreneurial principles can enhance your teaching methods and improve your students' learning experience.
Check out latest blog here!
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282- How Concepts and Standards Work Hand in Hand
In this episode, we unpack the complex relationship between musical concepts and standards in music education. Using personal anecdotes, you'll learn about the significance of teaching music in a manner that aligns with your personal teaching style, and how to implement it in your classroom.
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281 - Bridging the Gap Between Students with and without Private Music Lessons with Chandler Owen
In this episode of The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast, we have an insightful conversation with Chandler Owen on the gap between students who receive private music lessons and those who don't. We discuss the challenges and potential solutions for balancing the learning environment and ensuring all students get to shine. This episode provides thought-provoking ideas on how to create a harmonious and inclusive music classroom.
Get more from Chandler here:
Chandler Owen Music Fountation Facebook
River Valley Music Center Facebook
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280- Utilizing Transitions in the Music Room
In this episode, I share with you some strategies for managing transitions in the music classroom. The discussion revolves around effective methods to establish clear procedures and signal transitions. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating a seamless learning environment that fosters active participation, understanding, and enjoyment among students.
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279- The Benefits of Singing Together in the Music Room with Debbie O’Shea
In this episode, guest Debbie O'Shea shares her insights on the benefits of group singing in the music classroom. We discuss the benefits this has on the class and how it can enrich a student's overall learning experience. Connect with Debbie here:
FREE Newsletter and the occasional email
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278- How to Dominate Your Formal Observation
In this episode, we explore the important elements of a successful formal observation. I provided valuable tips, examples, and personal anecdotes from my own experiences to help guide you in turning your formal observation into an empowering and affirming experience for yourself, and your students.
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277- Time Management for Music Teachers with Linda Kardamis
Connect with Linda here:
Website: www.teach4theheart.com
Podcast: www.teach4theheart.com/podcast
Facebook Group: www.teach4theheart.com/facebook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/teach4theheart/
Check out the blog post here
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276- How Long to Spend on a Particular Song or Idea
One of the biggest questions when planning instruction in the music room is around how long to spend on a song or idea. On this episode of the podcast, I talk about how I make these decisions. I consider my students, what I’m wanting to accomplish with a song, and many other factors you’ll read about.
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275- 3 Lessons I’ve Learned in 2023
2023 has nearly come to a close, and with that it's time for a bit of reflection. So, in this episode, I'm sharing 3 lessons I've learned in 2023 as we move into 2024.
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274- Take a Break and Don’t Think About School
It's okay to take a break! In fact, it's important and necessary to do so for your mental sanity friend. In this episode, we'll explore ways for you to truly rest and reset over Winter break.
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273- Bringing Hip-Hop into the Music Room with Dr. Patrick Cooper
In this episode, Dr. Patrick Cooper talks about what it means to bring hip-hop into the music classroom. He discusses specific lessons or units he's used with his students, practical ways you can implement hip-hop lessons with even the youngest of students, and talks about new and exciting ideas you'll definitely want to try.
Dr. Patrick K. Cooper is an assistant professor of music education at Florida International University. He teaches courses in research, curriculum development, philosophy, and creativity. He holds degrees in music education from Arizona State University (B.M., M.M.) and University of South Florida (Ph.D.). Winner of the 2015 Outstanding Emerging Researcher Award from the Center for Music Education Research, his research interests capture the intersection of creativity, inclusion, and performance. His publications can be found in academic journals such as Psychology of Music and International Journal of Music Education as well as practitioner texts such as The Music Technology Cookbook and The Learner-Centered Music Classroom. His book Broadcast to Podcast: Lessons from Radio for an Online Music Education is available through F-Flat Books. Dr. Cooper has presented internationally, nationally, and locally at conferences such as NeuroMusic, Society for Music Perception and Cognition, International Society for Music Education, Society for Music Teacher Education, and the National Association for Music Education Biennial Music Research and Teacher Education Conference. He has given workshops and lectures as an invited speaker at several universities including University of Southern California, Arizona State University, Illinois State University, and Westminster Choir College. As a musician, he has performed extensively as a double bassist, synthesizer player, and hip-hop artist. Prior to his appointment at Florida International University, he held adjunct positions with Eastern Illinois University and The Crane School of Music at SUNY-Potsdam, was a Presidential Doctoral Fellow at University of South Florida, and taught in public schools and community centers in St. Petersburg, FL and the metro Phoenix area.
Connect with Patrick here:
- Email him at pcooper@fiu.edu
- Hip-Hop course on LEARN at F-Flat Books
- Broadcasting book at F-Flat Books
- Enroll in the Curriculum Design Roadmap Course
- Read more in this blog post
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272: Making Decisions as a Music Teacher
We all know that being a music teacher involves a harmonious blend of passion, creativity, and decision-making prowess. From the classroom to your home life, the daily decisions can become overwhelming, leading to what we fondly call "decision fatigue." So, let's dive into some practical strategies to boost your confidence in decision-making and embrace the beautiful melody of choices.
- Read this episode's blog post here
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271: The Power of Brain Dumping for Organization
If you’re as pumped as I am about organization, then you’re in for a treat. You know I’m all about sharing my tips on staying organized in the chaos of life, lesson planning, and teaching. And today, we’re diving into a game-changer: the power of brain dumping.
Now, if you’re scratching your head, wondering, “What on earth is a brain dump?” Fear not! I was in your shoes until I realized it’s not just my quirky phrase; it’s a legit thing, backed by countless blog posts. So, let’s demystify this and explore why brain dumping is your new secret weapon for staying organized.
- Read the full blog article on this episode, The Power of Brain Dumping for Organization - Jessica Peresta- The Domestic Musician
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270: Inspiring the Next Generation of Composers with Emi Ferguson
In today's episode, we have a fascinating conversation with the talented Emi Ferguson, a versatile musician and author. Get ready to be inspired as we dive into the topic of inspiring the next generation of composers. Teachers, you're in for a treat – this conversation is filled with valuable insights to bring back to your students.
Emi Ferguson shares her journey as a musician, from being a trained flute player to composing and singing. The conversation highlights the diversity within the musical world and challenges the notion of specializing as a contemporary construct. Drawing inspiration from legendary composers like J.S. Bach, the discussion encourages a holistic exploration of music.
Connect with Emi:
- Website: www.emiferguson.com
- Instagram: @emiferguson
- Youtube: @emiferguson
- Facebook: @emifergusonmusic
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- Read this episode's blog post here
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269: How to Contribute to Parent/Teacher Conferences as the Music Teacher
Today, we're diving into the world of parent-teacher conferences and how, as the music teacher, you can strike a chord that resonates with both parents and students. We know every school has its unique rhythm, so let's explore how you can contribute to these conferences with these handy tips.
- Check out this episode's blog post here
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268: Moving Away from Sunday Night Panic Lessons with Anna Jo Knight
Do you remember the days when you first stepped into the classroom as a music teacher, full of enthusiasm and a passion for sharing the gift of music with your students? Every lesson felt like an opportunity to inspire and connect with your young learners. However, as the years go by, it's easy to fall into a pattern of burnout and "Sunday night panic lessons," as one experienced teacher, Anna Jo, aptly put it.
Anna Jo's journey as a music educator, like many others, has had its ups and downs. She, too, experienced moments of overwhelm and fatigue. But she also found a way to rediscover her love for teaching and, most importantly, her why.
Anna Jo Knight has been teaching for 30 years now. She's currently an elementary music teacher at Abernathy Elementary School, Texas.
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267: How to Be a Minimalist Music Teacher
Now, let me be the first to say, I am not a minimalist in my life. I love to keep things organized, clean out my closets, and constantly give things to goodwill. But in the music room, I want to talk about minimalism because it can bring simplicity, clarity, and joy to your teaching. So, let's dive into the world of minimalism and discover how it can transform your music classroom.
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266: 3 Ways to Naturally Integrate Technology Into Your Lessons
In this engaging episode, I'll take you through three creative ways to naturally integrate technology into your music classroom. As a passionate music teacher and educational technology specialist, I'll share insights on streaming content directly from your computer, embracing student Chromebooks, and the magic of Spotify playlists. I encourage educators not to be overwhelmed by technology and instead find the right balance that resonates with their teaching style and enhances the learning experience, all while keeping the joy of music at the heart of every lesson.
- Read the blog post that goes with the episode here
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265: Culturally Responsive Music Education with Ashley Cuthbertson
In this podcast episode, we are joined by Ashley Cuthbertson, an expert in culturally responsive music education. Ashley shares her insights and experiences, providing valuable information for music educators looking to make their teaching more culturally responsive. Let’s explore how to make music education more inclusive and relevant for diverse learners.
Key Conversations:
Introduction to Ashley Cuthbertson: Ashley introduces herself, her background as a former music educator, and her mission to make music education culturally responsive.
The Early Struggles: Ashley reflects on her initial challenges as a music educator and shares a pivotal moment when she realized the importance of understanding her students beyond their names.
The Need for Culturally Responsive Teaching: Ashley emphasizes the need for teachers to go beyond just teaching and make learning contextualized and relevant for their students.
First Year Teachers and Culturally Responsive Teaching: Ashley provides insights into how first-year teachers, and educators in general, can start incorporating culturally responsive teaching practices into their classrooms.
Overcoming Pushback: Ashley addresses common pushback from educators and the underlying fear that often leads to resistance. She encourages teachers to believe in the power of what they do.
The Power of Music Education: Ashley highlights the transformative power of music education and how it can impact students' lives in profound ways.
Ashley Cuthbertson, M.Ed, NBCT (she/her) is the Founder & Principal Consultant of A. Cuthbertson Consulting, LLC, an educational consulting firm that partners with schools, school districts, and organizations to help music educators develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to deliver instruction that is culturally responsive & relevant to the diverse and ever-changing needs of today's learners so that all students have an equitable pathway to success in music.
Described as an "engaging and charismatic" teacher educator, Ashley has delivered over 100 professional development sessions through her school district and organization partnerships, serving hundreds of music educators across the U.S. and internationally with 95% of attendees highly recommending her sessions. Additionally, she provides instructional coaching services to a small number of music educators each year.
A Nationally Board Certified Teacher, Ashley holds a Master's in Education, as well as certifications in the Kodály approach and Arts integration. Ashley has over thirteen years of experience in education as a general music & choral educator, a band educator, a K-12 musicianship instructor, a private lessons instructor, lead teacher, new teacher coach, adjunct professor, curriculum writer, speaker, and consultant.
A passionate advocate for music education, Ashley additionally serves the National Association for Music Education as a member of the Repertoire Diversity Task Force and the Virginia Music Educators Association as chair of the DEI Council.
Learn more at https://ashleycuthbertson.com/about-us/
Connect with Ashley through:
- Instagram: @ACuthbertson10 (https://www.instagram.com/acuthbertson10/)
- Facebook: @ACuthbertsonConsulting (https://www.facebook.com/ACuthbertsonConsulting/)
- Twitter: @ACuthbertson10 (https://twitter.com/ACuthbertson10)
- Resource: "Happy Birthday, Dr. King!: A music unit to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr" - Blog post & free resource download (link)
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264: How to Batch Your Lesson Planning
Hello, dear educators! I'm thrilled to be back with an episode that's sure to ignite your teaching efficiency. One question I get asked a lot is, "How do I batch lesson planning?" You might be thinking, "Is it really possible to plan all my lessons for the month in just four hours?" Well, I'm here to tell you it is absolutely possible. In this episode, we're going to delve into the fascinating world of batch lesson planning and show you how to streamline your teaching preparation. So whether you're a seasoned pro or someone who often finds themselves scrambling on a Sunday night, I've got you covered.
- Check out the full blog post about this episode here.
- Sign up for the Reflect and Renew challenge right here.
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
263: The Power of Sharing Your Story with Your Students with Starr Loutsis
In this episode, we have a special guest, Starr Loutsis, who is here to discuss the transformative power of sharing your personal story with your students. Music teachers often grapple with the question of how much of their own experiences to reveal to their students. We'll explore why sharing your story is essential, what aspects of your story to share, and how it can benefit both teachers and students. So, let's dive in!
Starr Loutsis is an author and a business publisher at Aligning Purpose Publishing. She helps aspiring authors publish their books without the anxiety and the hassle.
- Read our blog about this episode here.
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
262: How to Ask Questions in the Music Classroom with Dr. Philip Tacka
When it comes to music education, we often find ourselves immersed in the melodies, harmonies, and rhythms of our favorite songs. But have you ever thought about the art of asking questions in the music classroom? It's a topic rarely discussed, yet it plays a profound role in shaping the musical journey of students. Join us on a captivating exploration of Dr. Philip Tacka's innovative strategies that illuminate the path to a deeper understanding of music.
Philip Tacka received his doctorate from The Catholic University of America and completed a year of postdoctoral work at the Franz Liszt Academy, Budapest/Zoltan Kodály Pedagogical Institute in Hungary. He is a Professor of Music in The Tell School of Music at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. His research interests center on the all aspects of music education though he has a particular emphasis on music perception and cognition. He writes in collaboration with Dr. Micheál Houlahan, chair of The Tell School of Music. Their publications include Kodály Today and the accompanying seven volumes in the Oxford University Press series. Two new volumes, Choral Artistry: A Kodály Perspective for Middle School to College Level Choirs and Choral Sight Reading are scheduled to be published in 2023 by Oxford. A more complete listing of publications is included below. He has been involved in Kodály Teacher Training programs every year since the early 1980s and has written and provided professional development for four United States Department of Education grants awarded to both the Austin and Houston, Texas Independent School Districts. Dr. Tacka has also served on editorial boards and served as a grant evaluator for more than a decade on the American Fellowship Panel for the American Association of University Women. Prior to his current position, he was an Associate Professor of Music in the Department of Art, Music & Theatre at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. and worked with the Georgetown University Medical School’s Institute for Cognitive and Computational Science in the neuropsychology of music perception. He regularly presents papers and workshops both nationally and internationally on aspects of music education, music perception and cognition, and Kodály studies and has lectured in Italy, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Estonia, the Netherlands, and England. In March, 2016 he was awarded the Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE) Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2017 received a distinguished alum award from the Hungarian government.
Connect with Dr. Tacka at:
- Website: Sound Thinking Interactive
- FB and Tiktok: @soundthinkinginteractive
- Facebook Group: Houlahan & Tacka & Kodály Studies
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- Read the full blog post: How to Ask Questions in the Music Classroom
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261: Reframing What Makes a “Good” Music Teacher
In this episode, we dive into what it truly means to be an exceptional music teacher. We'll explore five key areas that define your greatness as an educator, from lesson planning to performances, assessments, teaching methods, and your unique personality. Discover how you can confidently embrace your individuality and teaching style while making a profound impact on your students' musical journey. Tune in for valuable insights and inspiration to become the best music teacher you can be - which, for sure, you already are! You just have to realize it!
- Check out this episode's blog post
- Enroll in the Curriculum Design Roadmap Course
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- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
260: How “Education Through Music” is Creating More Music Teacher Positions in Schools with Stephanie Nantell
In this episode, I'm excited to share an insightful conversation with Stephanie Nantell, a passionate advocate for music education. We explore the importance of music education, the challenges teachers and programs face, and the strategies to advocate effectively for music programs. Also, check out my latest blog post and find the key takeaways that we have from this conversation!
Stephanie Nantell is the Senior Director of Programs at Education Through Music. Her journey from a music educator to her current role at Education Through Music (ETM) reflects her unwavering commitment to music education. Stephanie explains that one of the driving forces behind her transition to ETM was the organization's unique mission – not to compete with public schools but to create more music teacher roles and educational opportunities for students across New York City.
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- Enroll in the Curriculum Design Roadmap Course
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
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259: Making Lemonade from Lemons in Your Teaching Journey
In this special episode of the Elementary Music Teacher Podcast, I'll be sharing a personal story of unexpected twists and turns in my teaching journey. While I was diligently preparing for a virtual teaching role, life threw me a curveball that led to an incredible adventure of self-discovery and growth. Join me as I delve into the lessons I learned from this experience and how they can apply to your life and career.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace Change: Life rarely goes as planned, and it's essential to adapt and seize new opportunities when they arise.
- Listen to Your Heart: Trust your instincts and make choices that align with your values and lifestyle.
- Don't Be Afraid to Evolve: Your career path may take unexpected turns, and that's okay. Embrace growth and new experiences.
- Seek Support and Guidance: Don't hesitate to reach out to your support system for advice and insights when facing tough decisions.
- Stay True to Your Passion: Pursue your passions, even if it means juggling multiple responsibilities. Your dedication will shine through.
- Be Vulnerable: Sharing your struggles and uncertainties can inspire and resonate with others. Lean on your community when needed.
This episode reminds us that life's journey is filled with surprises, and each experience contributes to personal and professional growth. Whether you're facing lemons or sipping lemonade, trust in the path that unfolds before you and continue making a positive impact in your students' lives.
Tune in to the full episode for a heartfelt and inspiring narrative that will resonate with educators and anyone navigating the twists and turns of life's journey.
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- Sign up for the Curriculum Design Workshop
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- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
258: Sound Seeds: Nurturing Musicianship in the Elementary Classroom with Dr. Micheal Houlahan
Micheál Houlahan is a Professor of Music Theory and Aural Skills and currently serves as the Chair of the Tell School of Music at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. He received an Irish Arts Council Scholarship for graduate studies at the Liszt Academy in Hungary and a Fulbright Research Scholarship for doctoral studies in Music Theory at the Catholic University of America in the United States after graduating from St. Patrick’s College, Ireland. His research has also received support from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Dr. Houlahan has obtained Licentiate diplomas and Fellowships in Piano Performance from Trinity College and London College of Music, London. He has lectured extensively on music theory and Kodály studies in Ireland, Italy, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Estonia, Netherlands, England, and China. In 2016, he was awarded the Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE) Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, the Hungarian Government invited him to present a lecture on his research and teaching at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. He was also a featured clinician for the 2017 Texas Music Educators Conference. Dr. Houlahan is currently a member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) accreditation commission and serves as an Accreditation Team Leader and Visiting Evaluator for NASM. He was a guest speaker at the Forum Among Leaders of Higher Music Institutions, China Conservatory of Music, Beijing, China, in 2017 and served as an Honorary Professor (2017-2020) at the Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Chinese National School of Music and China Conservatory of Music.
Dr. Houlahan collaborates with Dr. Tacka; they have authored numerous books, chapters in books, and articles.
Check out their works at:
soundthinkinginteractive.com
www.youtube.com/@kodalytoday2289/playlists
www.facebook.com/groups/1469799603314646/
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Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
257: 5 Ways I'm Rethinking Classroom Management
In this episode, I’m delving into the crazy world of classroom management. If you’ve been following along, you know that we’ve touched on classroom management before, but today, I want to take a fresh approach. So, let’s dive in and explore how I’m rethinking classroom management as I head back into teaching. Get ready to challenge some old beliefs and discover new ways to create an engaging and harmonious learning environment. Also, check out my episode blog post here: 5 Ways to Rethink Classroom Management.
- Enroll in the Sound Thinking Interactive Academy
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- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
256: Teaching the Recorder in an Engaging Way with Bill Henry
Bill Henry, with over 17 years of teaching experience in the Maryland public school system, has dedicated his career to shaping young minds through music. He also runs a popular YouTube channel called "Mr. Henry's Music World," with over 50,000 subscribers and millions of views. Bill's dynamic approach to music education engages teachers and students across the globe, and today, he's here to share his expertise on teaching the recorder with enthusiasm and creativity.
Read the blog post that goes along with this episode here
Find out more about the Modern Lab recorder course
Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
255: How I'm Preparing to Teach Again
Today's episode is truly special as I open up about a chapter of my life that's been in the making for a while. Yes, you guessed it – I'm talking about returning to the classroom after a significant hiatus. My journey back to teaching has been a blend of excitement, challenges, and self-discovery, and I'm here to share my insights, personal experiences, and practical tips that I hope will be of immense help to all the wonderful teachers out there who are considering or embarking on a similar path.
In full transparency, a month ago, I found out the virtual school I would be teaching at decided not to open their doors after all. But... I'm excited that I'll be teaching preschool and elementary music at a private school and will be talking about this more in September on the podcast and right here on the blog. So, stay tuned for that!
- Read the blog post that goes hand in hand with this episode right here
- Sign up for the Reflect and Renew challenge
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- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
254: Summer Series: In Personal Professional Development Opportunities for Music Educators
As we wrap up our summer series, I'm thrilled to share some valuable insights into the world of in-person professional development. While I won't cover every single opportunity out there — the list can go on and on! — I'll provide you with some useful tips and ideas to explore. Check out the episode blog post for links and tips on finding in-person PD opportunities near you.
- Sign up for the Reflect and Renew challenge
- Enroll in music teacher PD at F-FLAT LEARN
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
253: Summer Series: Online Professional Development Opportunities for Music Educators
This week’s topic is all about online professional development opportunities for music educators. There are so many great ones out there, and while I can’t cover them all, I’m going to share some that I’ve personally been a part of, whether as an attendee or a presenter. From symposiums and summits to memberships and courses, these platforms offer a diverse range of topics and insights to enrich your teaching practices. You can find all the links on my latest blog post.
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
252: Summer Series: Favorite Music Education Social Media Accounts
Welcome back to another summer series episode of the podcast! Today, we continue our exploration of inspiring music education resources, but this time focusing on social media accounts. These platforms have become valuable spaces for music educators to connect, collaborate, and discover new ideas. From Facebook groups to Instagram and LinkedIn, let's dive into the vibrant community of music educators making a difference in the digital world.
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
251: Summer Series: Music Education Websites and Apps
There are a lot of music education websites and apps that you can use as a music teacher. Honestly, the possibilities of what you can use are growing each and every year. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to do your own research or take the ideas I share and go explore them on your own. In this episode, I’ll share some of my favorite music education websites and apps, the links to which can be found in my latest blog post.
- Grab your free Simplifying Lesson Planning guide.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
250: Summer Series: Favorite Music Education YouTube Channels
In this summer series episode, I'm sharing my favorite music education YouTube channels. The channels mentioned include ideas for play-along videos, teaching strategies, lesson ideas, and much more.
Links mentioned include:
Mario 2023 Theme video
Ready Go Music Rhythm Patterns video
Fun with Composers channel
Ms. Wonderly Makes Music channel
Music and Motivate channel
Swick's Classroom channel
Mrs. King's Music Corner channel
Mr. Henry's Music World channel
Becca's Music Room channel
249: Designing a Curriculum that Works for You with Katie Jenks
In this episode, we chat with Katie Jenks not just about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course but also about the real struggles that we music teachers face everyday. We dive deep into the overwhelm that comes with having too little or too many resources in our hands, not knowing where to start with building a curriculum that is cohesive and makes sense for our students, and grasping at straws when it comes to writing daily and weekly lesson plans that are aligned to our long-term goals in music education.
These problems seem universal for music educators out there, and we talk about how the Curriculum Design Roadmap course provides solutions that will not seem like another overwhelming checklist we have to tick off one by one. Katie also shares her experience in going through the course — the clarity that comes with knowing when and how to use the resources available to her, the confidence in knowing that her curriculum building is headed into the right direction, and the feeling that this is a community rather than a one-time course that she has to finish.
- Join the Curriculum Design Roadmap course before doors close on June 29th at 10pm CST.
- Sign up for teacher coaching or business coaching with Jessica.
- Find out more about the HARMONY membership here.
- Find out more about the Curriculum Design Roadmap course here.
- Get your copy of Make A Note: What You Really Need to Know About Teaching Elementary Music
248: Summer Series: Favorite Music Education Books
In this summer series episode, I'm sharing my favorite music education books. The resources I share include where to find books to teach with, books to teach from, and books for professional development.
Join the Curriculum Design Roadmap course before doors close on June 29th at 10pm CST.
Links mentioned include:
The Ultimate Music Ed Book List
247- Summer Series: Favorite Music Education Podcasts
There are so many great podcasts out there, but in this episode, I'm going to share a list of my favorite music education AND business podcasts.
You can read a list of the blogs mentioned in this blog post. Sign up for the Curriculum Development workshop coming up SOON!
246: Summer Series: Favorite Music Education Blogs
There are so many great blogs out there, but in this episode, I'm going to share a list of my favorite music education blogs.
You can read a list of the blogs mentioned in this blog post. Sign up for the Curriculum Development workshop coming up SOON!
245: Real PD that Music Teachers Need with Dr. Sarah Gulish and David Allen
There is a lot of great professional development for music educators available. But, the missing piece is the ongoing PD all school year long. Music teachers need real time PD that addresses the issues they're dealing with on a weekly basis. That's why the LEARN site was founded as a way to give you relevant PD by real music education professionals in the field. This interview with the F-flat team will dive into what real PD should look like.
Sign up for PD at F-flat LEARN here.