Happy Native American Heritage Month! November is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of the Native people, acknowledging the important ways in which these groups have enriched the quality and character of our Nation. In today's episode, we delve into the different types of Native American chants and the musical traditions and instruments associated with them. To further understand and appreciate the unique beauty of Native American traditions – musical and otherwise – feel free to explore the resources linked below:

https://www.nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/

https://www.wfmt.com/2021/11/24/7-native-american-musicians-you-should-know/https://www.britannica.com/art/Native-American-music

https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/blog/rumble-on-more-native-american-musicians-you-should-know/

https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/resources-for-educators/classroom-resources/media-and-interactives/media/international/native-pride-dancers/

https://www.denverartmuseum.org/en/collection/indigenous-arts-north-america

https://rnt.firstnations.org/

https://americanindian.si.edu/nk360/about/understandings

In the fourth and final part of our discussion with Dr. Hanser, we learn about the distinctions between various national and international music therapy associations. Dr. Hanser reflects on her most powerful memories from her time working with patients and concludes by sharing what excites her about the future of music therapy research.

In the third part of our discussion with Dr. Hanser, we discuss what defines "success" as a music therapist. Dr. Hanser also shares about the work she's done in other countries, reflecting on what she has taught and what she has learned. Finally, she provides insight into the course design process for her “Music Therapy Techniques for Wellness” course at Berklee College of Music.

In the second part of our discussion with Dr. Hanser, we learn more about her work as a practicing clinical music therapist. How does Dr. Hanser tailor her approach when working with different patient populations, such as those with cancer vs. those with dementia? How does her approach as a music therapist differ between patients with a musical background or training as opposed to those without? Tune in to find out!

Researcher, author, professor, and music therapist Dr. Suzanne Hanser has truly done it all. Join us as we delve into everything from her childhood musical memories to her process of founding the music therapy programs at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute!

In part two of our interview with high school cellist Caleb Graupera, we continue to discuss how early music education might be improved to promote a more inclusive understanding of classical music's history and evolution. Caleb also shares exciting initiatives currently happening in the classical music space.that celebrate cultural diversity.

How do we distinguish between tokenization for the sake of political correctness versus actual broad access and participation in the classical music space? What changes can be made to music education curricula to better incorporate cultural diversity and promote a more inclusive understanding of classical music's history and evolution? In this episode, high school cellist Caleb Graupera shares his experience with and thoughts on diversity in the classical music space.