Pass the Baton: Empowering Students in Music Education, a Podcast for Music Teachers

In episode 76, Theresa and Kathryn welcome Gillian Desmarais Keller, an award-winning music educator specializing in K-12 music technology. Gillian shares her journey from teaching elementary music to establishing a cutting-edge music technology program in Maplewood Public Schools. She highlights the importance of integrating technology into traditional music education, offering students new opportunities for creativity through recording, lyric writing, and music production. Gillian also discusses how technology can enhance the learning experience by blending traditional music theory with modern tools like digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Soundtrap and Ableton.

The conversation emphasizes the potential of music technology to engage a wider range of students, including those who may not be interested in traditional music programs. Gillian shares practical tips for teachers to start incorporating technology into their classrooms, advocating for the use of web applications like Chrome Music Lab and Groove Pizza as entry points. Whether you're a band director, choir teacher, or general music instructor, this episode provides valuable insights on how to make music education more accessible and relevant to all students.

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In episode 75, Theresa and Kathryn are joined by Emily Meyerson, a seasoned music educator, to discuss her unique approach to teaching music through the TAB (Teaching for Artistic Behavior) pedagogy. Emily shares her experiences transitioning from a traditional teaching model to one that empowers students to behave and think like musicians. She emphasizes the importance of giving students creative control in the music classroom, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. From integrating technology, like electronic instruments and recording studios, to fostering a collaborative environment, Emily highlights how this innovative method nurtures independent thinkers and lifelong musicians.

You will also hear Emily's insights on balancing student-led projects with structured lessons and how she adapted TAB for various grade levels. She discusses the importance of classroom management, collaboration with other educators, and the profound impact of giving students creative freedom. This episode offers practical tips for educators interested in empowering their students while maintaining classroom structure.

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In Episode 74, Kathryn and Theresa talk to Berry McWhorter about how his deep dive into Japanese music education transformed his approach to teaching. After discovering the impressive performance of Japanese middle school bands during his studies, Berry embarked on a journey to understand the unique student-led structure of Japanese music programs. He found that these programs place significant responsibility on students to lead rehearsals, manage performances, and even handle administrative tasks, all with minimal direct supervision from teachers.

Inspired by this model, Berry applied similar strategies in his own high school band teaching. He encouraged student leadership by implementing student-led sectionals and allowing students to choose and conduct their concert pieces. This shift toward student ownership, influenced by the Japanese approach, created a more engaged and motivated classroom environment. Berry emphasizes that this method not only improves students’ musical abilities but also instills valuable life skills such as independence, responsibility, and collaboration. 

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In episode 73, Kathryn and Theresa engage in a compelling conversation with Ally McGowan, a dedicated middle school orchestra teacher from Connecticut. Ally shares her journey of transitioning from traditional methods of student engagement to a more empowering approach in her classroom. She discusses how small, intentional changes in her teaching methods have transformed her students' learning experiences, moving them from passive participation to active ownership of their musical growth. Ally emphasizes the importance of listening to her students and allowing them to take part in decisions about their learning, such as choosing the flow of their lessons and engaging in improvisational activities.

The discussion also highlights the value of collaboration among educators, with Ally describing her experiences working alongside other music teachers to enhance the learning environment. She reflects on the benefits of having students provide peer feedback, which not only deepens their understanding but also fosters a supportive classroom community. By focusing on student empowerment and incorporating innovative teaching techniques, Ally has successfully created a classroom atmosphere where students are excited to learn and explore music in new and meaningful ways.

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In this episode of the Pass the Baton podcast, hosts Kathryn Finch and Theresa Hoover kick off the fourth season by discussing how to create an empowering classroom environment as the new school year begins. They emphasize the importance of setting the tone early, fostering an inclusive and positive atmosphere where students feel confident and motivated. The conversation delves into practical strategies for building student engagement, focusing on providing opportunities for students to take ownership of their learning, which in turn enhances their confidence and love for music.

The episode also highlights the significance of student voice and choice in the classroom. Kathryn and Theresa explore how giving students a say in their learning process, from the music they play to the way the classroom is organized, can lead to a more dynamic and collaborative environment. They offer actionable tips on how to integrate student feedback, creativity, and collaboration into daily lessons, ensuring that students feel seen, heard, and empowered to succeed throughout the school year.

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In Episode 71, Kathryn and Theresa celebrate the conclusion of Season 3, reflecting on the 20 episodes produced and the incredible people they met within the field of music education. Now three years old, the book “Pass the Baton” has had an incredible impact, as did the successful graduate course run through VanderCook College of Music this spring. With an emphasis on the importance of student-centered teaching and collaborative learning, Theresa and Kathryn share personal highlights and lessons learned from their favorite episodes. Heading into summer, they discuss their plans for relaxation, family time, and continued professional development. Hint - stay tuned this summer for a relaunch of the Coffee Club and don’t forget to check out the free resources available on the website!

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In Episode 70, Kathryn and Theresa talk to Dr. Sarah Gulish, a former high school music teacher turned digital publisher. Sarah shares her journey from classroom teaching to founding a music education company, F-flat Books. She highlights the release of her new children's book, "Rosie Rocks," which tells the story of a shy girl finding her voice through playing the electric guitar. The book emphasizes themes of student voice, gender representation in music, and the importance of teachers supporting and listening to their students' interests and aspirations in music education.

Listeners will gain insights into Sarah's innovative approach to music education, including her advocacy for broadening the scope of music programs to include diverse instruments and styles. She underscores the value of fostering a creative and inclusive environment where all students can explore their musical potential. The episode provides practical advice for educators on how to encourage student participation and innovation in the music classroom.

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Episode 69 of the podcast, Theresa and Kathryn address common concerns from music teachers about transitioning to more student-empowered classrooms. The episode focuses on how teachers can relinquish control while effectively meeting educational standards and ensuring administrative approval. The hosts emphasize the importance of incorporating student choices and fostering independence, while ensuring the curriculum aligns with the National Core Arts Standards which advocate for student engagement in music education. Practical advice is offered on taking small steps towards empowering students, which not only aids in meeting standards but also enhances students' overall musical and educational experience. The episode serves as an encouragement for music educators to embrace student-centered teaching methods while maintaining high educational and performance standards.

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In Episode 68 of the podcast, guest Yeshima shares their extensive background and current projects in music education, highlighting their passion for incorporating project-based learning (PBL) into music classrooms. Yeshima details their journey from teaching high school band and percussion in Texas to embracing elementary general music after being inspired by a music educators conference. Now pursuing a PhD, they reflect on their experience implementing PBL, emphasizing its potential to foster student-driven learning through authentic, real-world challenges. This approach not only enhances student engagement but also integrates community involvement, culminating in student-created projects that address community needs. Yeshima also discusses their entrepreneurial venture, Drum Smart LLC, where they teach group drumming, further demonstrating the power of music education to impact individuals and communities alike.

Yeshima's story serves as an inspiring example of how educators can deeply engage students in learning through music, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and community connection. Their approach illustrates the transformative potential of project-based learning in developing students' skills, confidence, and community awareness, making music education a powerful conduit for holistic development and social impact.

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In Episode 67, the conversation centers on transformative approaches to student assessments. Angela Harman shares her journey from traditional to student-driven assessments, which involve students in both self-assessment and peer feedback processes. This method not only makes assessments more meaningful and manageable but also fosters a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to be active participants in their own learning journey. The interview emphasizes practical strategies that music teachers can apply to shift the focus from mere grading to genuine student growth and learning progress.

Angela’s approach reflects a significant shift in educational practices, promoting student autonomy and a collaborative classroom atmosphere. These methods are not just about easing the teacher's burden but are crucial in helping students develop independence and critical skills necessary for their musical and personal development. The interview is rich with insights and real-life applications that are relevant to music educators looking to enhance their teaching methods and student engagement.

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