What do space, the International Space Station, rockets, and recorders have in common? You’re about to find out as this episode features music and STEAM education pioneer, Laurie Orth. While we talk about how space and music education collided in her world, we also explore how you too can “get it together,” learn new things, and ultimately do cool things, such as how Mrs. Orth brings together the contrasting disciplines of space exploration and music. 

Laurie Orth is passionate about creating a pipeline for young people into STEAM through music. She is an independent contractor at the Jessye Norman School of the Arts in Augusta, Georgia. In 2019, she published Rocket Recorder, an innovative music workbook that introduces space content to young people. Rocket Recorder is certified by the Space Foundation’s Space Certification for Education™ program. She has presented her space-themed music curriculum for professional development to educators internationally. Ms. Orth serves as a Space Station Ambassador for the International Space Station National Lab, is a Space Foundation Teacher Liaison, and she volunteers with the Air & Space Forces Association. She was selected as a social media influencer by NASA. She is the soprano section leader for the Chancel Choir and the Junior Choir Director at St. John United Methodist Church in Augusta, GA. She sings professionally and is a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association and the National Association for Music Educators.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kbs76G2iK_A. 

Learn more about Laurie Orth: www.laurieorth.com 

Order your copy of “The Business of Choir”: https://www.giamusic.com/store/resource/the-business-of-choir-book-g10713 or check out the website, businessofchoir.com. 

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**Show music originally written by Mr. Todd Monsell

**Show photography provided by Dr. Dan Biggerstaff