Sign up to save your podcastsEmail addressPasswordRegisterOrContinue with GoogleAlready have an account? Log in here.
Dr. Steve Shanley, Alan Feirer, and national thought leaders explore current issues in music education, with practical application for K-12 music educators.... more
FAQs about Music Ed Insights:How many episodes does Music Ed Insights have?The podcast currently has 119 episodes available.
August 25, 2025We’re Back! Reflections and Fresh Energy for Season FourAfter a summer hiatus, Alan and Steve return to the mic to share what they’ve been up to, what they’ve learned, and what’s coming in Season Four. From hikes in Scotland to arranging jazz charts, AI to acoustic concerts, youth leadership to professional rejuvenation—this is a relaxed and insightful welcome-back chat....more9minPlay
June 02, 2025Summer Strategies: Combating Loneliness and Supporting New Teachers In this episode, Steve and Alan explore meaningful ways to spend summer break. They discuss combating isolation by nurturing friendships, pursuing personal interests, and providing support to new teachers. Their conversation offers practical insights into maintaining connections and finding purpose during the break, with a focus on professional and personal well-being....more9minPlay
May 19, 2025How to do a Conference with Dr. Rodney Dorsey LIVERecorded in front of a live audience at IBA, Alan and Steve talk with Dr. Rodney Dorsey about maximizing the conference experience, work-life balance, and other lessons learned from a lifetime in music education....more44minPlay
May 12, 2025Quick Pro Tip: The Value of Bringing in Outside VoicesLongtime listener and educator Kyle Engelhardt joins Alan and Steve to talk about the power of bringing in outside clinicians. From leadership development to jazz programming, Kyle shares how working with trusted experts helped elevate his students and strengthen his program. Whether you're a veteran or new to the profession, this is a great reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone....more10minPlay
May 05, 2025Quick Pro Tip: How One School Made Professional Development Work for Music TeachersIn this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve welcome longtime listener Michael Kosiek and Carlisle High School principal Andrea Hoekstra. They share how Carlisle’s flexible approach to professional development allows teachers—especially music educators—to focus on learning that’s relevant to their subject areas. Hear practical advice for how teachers and administrators can work together to create PD that truly supports professional growth....more9minPlay
April 28, 2025Quick Pro Tip: Give Compliments – the Why and HowIn this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve unpack what makes a compliment truly meaningful—especially in the classroom or rehearsal setting. From specificity to timing to structure, they share practical ways to reinforce good behavior, boost motivation, and show appreciation in a way that actually sticks. Whether you're working with students or colleagues, this quick tip will help you give compliments that make a difference....more4minPlay
April 21, 2025Quick Pro Tip: Are Secondary Music Teachers Doing Too Much?Alan and Steve respond to a message from a listener who asks a bold but important question: Are high school music teachers doing too much? From overloaded calendars to student burnout, they explore what drives the packed schedules—and how to lead strong programs without running ourselves or our students into the ground....more5minPlay
April 14, 2025Quick Pro Tip: How to Lead Well by Stepping Back During a ClinicAlan and Steve explore how directors can model effective leadership during a clinic or festival rehearsal. It’s tempting to jump in, redirect, or show what you already know—but great leadership in these moments often means knowing when to step back. With practical advice on professional etiquette, communication, and presence, this episode helps you get the most out of your guest clinician—for your students and for yourself....more6minPlay
April 07, 2025Empowering the Next Generation of Musicians with Chuck DickersonIn this episode, Alan and Steve sit down with Chuck Dickerson, the Founder and Music Director of the Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA). Chuck shares his insights on the importance of increasing diversity and representation in classical music, and provides actionable strategies for K-12 music educators to make a difference.From incorporating music across the curriculum to advocating for policy changes, Chuck offers a roadmap for teachers to engage underrepresented students and communities. He also discusses ICYOLA's unique approach of creating a supportive, non-competitive environment to foster a love of orchestral music.Tune in to discover practical ways music educators can empower the next generation of musicians and ensure classical music reflects the diversity of our society....more28minPlay
March 31, 2025Quick Pro Tip: How to Prep Your Students for a Successful ClinicIn this episode of Music Ed Insights, Alan and Steve discuss simple but powerful ways to prepare students for clinics and guest rehearsals. From body language and eye contact to answering questions and teacher prep, this conversation offers practical tips for band, choir, orchestra, and general music teachers—especially during festival season. Help your students make the most of these valuable learning moments with confidence and professionalism....more7minPlay
FAQs about Music Ed Insights:How many episodes does Music Ed Insights have?The podcast currently has 119 episodes available.