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In this heartfelt episode of Beyond Artless, we shine a spotlight on Jennifer Rogholt — a dedicated band mom whose tireless support and advocacy for music education has made a lasting impact on students, directors, and entire school communities.

Jennifer shares her perspective on what it means to be a parent, volunteer, and champion for the arts. From late-night band trips to organizing fundraisers, she reflects on the joy, challenges, and profound rewards of supporting young musicians.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Jennifer’s journey as a proud band parent and volunteer
• How small acts of service create big change in music programs
• The power of community, connection, and showing up
• Why music education matters — for kids and for culture
• Tips for parents and supporters who want to get involved

This conversation is a celebration of the unsung heroes behind every concert, halftime show, and festival. Jennifer reminds us that when parents, educators, and students work together, music can transform lives.

 Tune in and honor the advocates who keep music alive beyond artless.

As a parent and fostering a love for music in those around you: 

1.  Music should be fun - always keep it light and fun.
2. Involve them in some way.  Attend events together.  Watch YouTube music together. 
3. Meet them where they are at. Celebrate what they love.
4. Time not minutes.  When practicing : time spent with an instrument is time spent.
5. Be playful, creative, no limits - can do no wrong.  Everything is progress and celebrate the first time something is played and the last.
6. When comfortable, look for ways to share music - practice videos, playing for grandparents, friends, church or even other venues.
7. Be Coachable : Teach being coachable by being coachable yourself.

Fostering Relationships With Music Educators

1. Show Up - walk in - ask what can I do or how can I help
2. Help whenever possible - actually move chairs, stands etc.  Actually walk in the space and say, I am here to help.
3. Express gratitude always - Thank them for things accomplished.
4. Notice the small things. - what changes or things are the directors incorporating that is moving things slowly in a new direction.  Tell them you notice that and that you are excited about it.  For example, having students share details about a piece at a concert before the piece is played.
5. Listen to them without judgment or feedback.  Be a safe place.
6. Be there for the program and events that will benefit all students
7. Be a resource to the other parents - the director can say, "I will have you talk with Momma Jen about that.  She can point you in the right direction."
8. Provide resources such as extra camp payments for a child that needs help, serve on Boards and volunteer opportunities, provide special rewards for fundraising efforts and sponsor when able.

Building Parent Involvement:

1. Personal invitation with no way out. Meet me here at this time and we will do this together.

2. Make it fun - no drama

3. Well organized - clear direction on what to do and how to help. Written directions are great because they give time for others to digest what they will do ahead of time. Sign up genius is a wonderful resource for this.

4. Get to know the kids with adults that could help, and maybe don't. Tell the kid, I would love to get to know your adult more. Can you give them my number and have them call me about ways we can work together? This works!

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