In this conversation, Kevin Lackie joins me to discuss the importance of classroom management and structure in choral education. This also the topic of a recent Choral Journal (ACDA) article that Kevin wrote. Be sure to check that out! He emphasizes the need for teachers to create an inclusive environment where students feel expected and engaged.

Many useful portions of this episode center around the ways that one unified educational philosophy can be adapted to a variety of teaching realities. Chances are, our tactics could be different but the philosophy is the same! Kevin shares his journey in music education, highlighting the significance of warm-ups and the role of philosophy in teaching. The discussion also covers strategies for redirecting student behavior and building buy-in among students, ultimately aiming to foster a cohesive and productive learning atmosphere.

Tune in now on YouTube or your favorite podcast app!

Tune in, and have your thinking stimulated and challenged. Then, weigh in yourself with your related ideas and experiences on Facebook in the Choralosophers group or over on choralosophy.substack.com Also, don’t forget to grab a reading rope for your classroom wall from the shop! Music Reading Rope

For future rehearsal clips, find me on TikTok, Insta and FB!

Kevin Lackie, conductor, educator and baritone, brings extensive skills in choral-vocal technique and community development. With a background of building and repairing choral programs across the east coast, his ensembles regularly receive praise for artistry, programming, and connection with their community. Most notably, Kevin Lackie made his Boston Symphony Hall conducting debut for the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Opening Week 2025 program “Music’s Next Generation.”

A passionate educator, Mr. Lackie was the longest-standing member of the Fairfax County Public School curriculum writing team that wrote a grade 5-12 choral curriculum that is used in 196 schools in Northern Virginia. Kevin regularly presents at conferences and universities and is published in the ACDA Choral Journal with a ChorTeach article on classroom management. Additionally, he has been a proud Mentor Teacher supporting new teachers in their programs.

Mr. Lackie is also an advocate for socioeconomic equity in the choral world. Kevin founded the New Hampshire-based “Scores Project,” which raises funds to donate to local public music programs in need of financial support. Dedicated to the belief that no child should be denied access to music due to a lack of finances, this project has continued for almost a decade, uninterrupted by the pandemic, and has contributed to choral programs around the state.

Prior to moving to Boston, Kevin Lackie was the Founder and Artistic Director of the Mount Vernon Chamber Singers in Alexandra, VA. He has served as Music Director and Director of Traditional Worship in numerous church denominations and taught middle and high school choral programs. Additionally, he serves as Tenor-Bass Repertoire & Resource Chair with the Virginia Chapter of the American Choral Director’s Association. Currently, he is on the teaching staff at Harvard University assisting the Harvard Glee Club and is a graduate conductor with Boston University’s 150-voice Symphonic Chorus. Kevin earned degrees from Keene State College, East Carolina University, and is pursuing his Doctorate in Conducting at Boston University.

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