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Join us on this episode of That Music Podcast as we discuss trauma-informed music education with guest Courtney Gazda. We'll learn about the basics of trauma and trauma-informed education, how music can help students who have experienced trauma, and specific strategies for implementing trauma-informed music education in the classroom. We'll also explore the benefits of this approach and hear about some challenges that teachers may face when trying to implement it. Don't miss out on this informative and important discussion!

Courtney Gazda is the Manager of Learning Programs with The Cleveland Orchestra. She develops and facilitates impactful music education programming for children ages PreK-12 in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. She also creates and presents meaningful educator training for Early Childhood Teachers and specializes in a Trauma-Informed lens, being mindful of the impact trauma has on a child’s development and utilizing necessary social-emotional learning and self-regulation practices in music education.

An award-winning Music Educator, Ms. Gazda also maintains her State of Ohio Music Teaching License and was previously a classroom music educator in Northeast Ohio. She holds a Master of Arts Administration degree from the University of Akron and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Mount Union, in addition to having training in Kodaly methodology and Trauma-Informed Teaching. She also serves on the League of American Orchestra’s Education and Community Engagement Leadership Committee.

Episode Chapters:

• 3:40 Background & Benefits

•  14:30 Implementation

• 21:30 Challenges & Obstacles 

Links and Resources: 

• Elementary Newbie Guide
• Disabilities Guide
• Steady Beat Survival Guide
• That Music Teacher Masterclass

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you!