July 25, 2025

112. Clay McKinney, author of TheCello.online and full-time middle school director, discusses some cello tip & tricks, his teaching, and more.

53 minutes

🎙 The Orchestra Teacher Podcast — Episode 112: Clay McKinney, author of TheCello.online and full-time middle school director, discusses some cello tip & tricks, his teaching, and more.

In Episode 112 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes the passionate and innovative Clay McKinney, director of orchestras at Parkway Central Middle School in Missouri. With over a decade of experience in the classroom, Clay shares insights into his teaching journey, his approach to engaging middle school students, and how he blends performance, pedagogy, and creativity in his work.

A cellist by training, Clay holds a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the University of Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. In 2023, he was honored as the Missouri American String Teachers Association Secondary Teacher of the Year — a testament to his dedication and impact as a music educator.

Beyond the classroom, Clay is the creator of The Cello Online YouTube channel, a valuable resource for cello players and teachers alike. With over 1 million views and nearly 10,000 subscribers, his content reaches musicians around the world, combining instructional videos with thoughtful and accessible cello guidance.

In this episode, Clay talks about his path into string education, his alternative route to certification, building a thriving middle school program, and how his digital content creation supports and extends his passion for teaching.

🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful and energizing conversation on musicianship, middle school magic, and making music accessible both in and beyond the classroom.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Mr. McKinney holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Cello Performance from the University of Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from University of MO St. Louis. He now serves as the director of orchestras at Parkway Central Middle School currently in his 11th year. In 2023 He was awarded the Missouri American String Teacher Secondary Teacher of the Year award for his work as a middle school orchestra director. Mr. McKinney also maintains a YouTube channel dedicated to cello www.youtube.com/@thecelloonline which has garnered over 1 million views and has a following of nearly 10,000.

https://www.thecello.online/

https://www.youtube.com/@thecelloonline

[email protected]

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By Dr. Charles Laux

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