Steve and Alan talk with professor, author, composer, and choral director Marques Garrett about the importance of diversifying choral programming and elevating non-idiomatic works. Garrett shares fascinating personal experiences learning about the rich musical heritage within historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), where choirs have long championed non-idiomatic compositions by Black artists. 

Garrett discusses the challenges of broadening repertoire choices, the historical context behind the under-representation of Black composers, and the impact of his efforts to increase awareness and performance of this vital body of choral music. The conversation explores Garrett's programming choices, the nuances of cultural appropriation, and the need for inclusive representation in music education. With a focus on practical strategies and the power of community, this episode offers invaluable insights for music educators and anyone passionate about fostering a more diverse musical landscape. 

Steve and Alan talk about the past year and preview a bit of what’s coming up in early 2025.

Alan and Steve talk to orchestra director Chris Selby about effective ways to improve musical clarity through intonation and rhythm.

In this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of music instruction: articulations. While this topic is essential for band directors working with woodwinds and brass, the conversation also holds valuable insights for orchestra, choir, and general music teachers. Discover why articulations are as crucial as notes and rhythms, and how understanding “music as a language” can elevate your teaching approach.

Steve and Alan explore the ways any K-12 educator can implement the philosophy of music as a student birthright in their classrooms and schools. They discuss strategies for increasing access and opportunities for student creativity and composition, as well as building relationships with administrators to strengthen music education programs. Guest Leila Ramagopal Pertl shares her insights on empowering students as musical beings and serving the whole child through general music.

In this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve share a simple strategy to engage students and reduce stress through effective delegation. Learn how to delegate tasks in three categories: Organize, Teach, and Appreciate. From managing classroom materials to teaching peers and showing gratitude, these strategies empower students while giving you more time to focus on what matters. Tune in for practical tips to make your teaching life easier!

Alan and Steve sit down with professor Ryan Scherber to explore ways that teachers can integrate social and emotional learning (SEL) into their music classrooms. Scherber provides an overview of key SEL competencies and emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma-informed pedagogy. The discussion covers specific, actionable strategies that music educators can use to foster critical social-emotional skills, from breathing exercises to collaborative composition projects. Scherber also addresses potential challenges teachers may face when implementing SEL. Listeners will come away with a toolbox of easy-to-use SEL techniques tailored for the music classroom.

In this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve introduce a simple "pecking order" strategy to help music educators prioritize planning tasks and reduce stress. Learn how to categorize tasks based on urgency—starting with immediate student needs, teammate collaboration, administrative requests, and parent communication. Tune in for a practical method to streamline your planning and stay focused on what matters most!

Recorded in front of a live audience, Alan and Steve sit down with renowned band director Dr. Kelli Pence to learn from her wealth of experience. Kelli reflects on her early teaching days, sharing the mistakes she made and the strategies she's developed over the years to effectively engage students and manage classroom challenges - including dealing with those dreaded "nasty grams" from parents. Kelli also shares invaluable insights from her mentors, like the legendary Mallory Thompson, on the importance of musicianship, the value of teaching at all levels, and the role of marching band. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration for music educators at any stage of their career.

After Alan and Steve give a short acceptance speech for receiving Education Podcast of the Year, Steve shares some very practical tips and encouragement for lightening your load by providing opportunities for local college students.