Welcome back to The Crescendo Music Education Podcast! If you tuned in to Part 1 of our conversation with Joel Copeland, you already know what a powerful and grounded voice he brings to the world of music education and leadership. And if you haven’t listened to that episode yet—press pause and go back! It’s packed with stories and insights that lay the foundation for what we’re diving into today.

In this second part, we go even deeper into Joel’s journey—especially his experience becoming a nationally certified Lead Teacher and how that process shifted his view of influence, impact, and leadership. You’ll hear his reflections on the true role of Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers, why leadership is about connection rather than position, and how advocacy plays a vital role in sustaining music programs across the country.

He also shares some practical advice for music educators navigating the day-to-day—and a few “nuggets of fabulous” that might just reframe how you use your time and energy this week.

Whether you're a classroom teacher, a school leader, or somewhere in between, Joel’s voice is one we all need to hear.

Let’s jump back in. Here’s Part 2 of our chat with Joel Copeland.

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Anita Collins - Bigger Better Brains

Connect with Joel: 

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-copeland/ 

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Hey friends, and welcome back to the Crescendo Music Education Podcast —the podcast where we explore the heart and craft of music education, one inspiring conversation at a time.

Today’s episode is a special one. I had the privilege of hearing our guest speak at the HALT Summit in Canberra, and his keynote left a lasting impression. There was something about the way he spoke—grounded, clear, and deeply human—that stayed with me. He reminded us that impact doesn’t end at the classroom walls… in fact, that’s often where it begins.

Joel Copeland is a distinguished music educator and leader, currently serving as the Principal of the ACT Instrumental Music Program. He’s led music programs across diverse educational settings, served as National President of Kodály Australia, and in 2021, he earned national certification as a Lead Teacher—a significant milestone that’s shaped his approach to leadership and influence.

Whether you’re a music teacher, a school leader, or just someone who believes in the quiet power of connection, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and a few “nuggets of fabulous” you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get into it. Here’s my conversation with Joel Copeland.

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Anita Collins - Bigger Better Brains

Connect with Joel: 

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-copeland/ 

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Today’s episode is extra special—and honestly, a little bit emotional—because I’m sitting down with my dear friend and colleague, Deb, to celebrate the live launch of my brand-new book, The Stalagmite Effect.

Now, if you know Debbie like I do, you know she’s one of the busiest, most passionate educators out there. So naturally, my first question to her was… Why on earth write a book? Aren’t you quite busy enough already?

But here’s the thing—this isn’t just any book. It’s personal. It’s heartfelt. And it’s been years in the making—well, four months of writing every single day, to be exact. Debbie started slowly, hit a few roadblocks along the way, and then found that wonderful rhythm where she’d wake up with something she just had to put down on paper. And she loved that feeling.

In this episode, we’re going to get personal and pull back the curtain on her writing journey—the challenges she’s overcome, the moments of surprise along the way, and what this book truly means to her. We’ll talk about the “dark fog” period she writes about, how her teaching philosophy has evolved over 40+ years, and what she hopes readers will do after they turn the final page.

And because this is a launch celebration, Debbie’s also going to treat us to a few live readings from the book—stories that are real, funny, touching, and so full of heart. You’ll get to experience the variety this book offers, see why her storytelling is so engaging, and—if you’re anything like me—want to get your hands on the full copy immediately.

So, grab your coffee, settle in, and join us for a conversation that’s as much about friendship and life as it is about the power of small, steady steps.

Let’s dive into the live launch of The Stalagmite Effect with Debbie.

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Welcome back to part two of our conversation with the wonderful Erin Elliott!

If you tuned in to part one, you already know Erin is a creative force in the elementary music classroom—bringing joy, structure, and sparkle to every lesson she teaches. In this second half of our chat, we dive even deeper into the real-life rhythms of music teaching.

Erin shares more of her favorite classroom strategies, her passion for recorders (yes, recorder geeks unite!), and how she stays grounded and efficient—both in and out of the music room. You’ll also hear about how she sets healthy boundaries with her time, leans into her strengths, and finds little pockets of peace amid a full teaching life.

Whether you're looking for a fresh idea, a practical tip, or just some encouragement from someone who truly gets it—this episode is for you.

Let’s jump back in!

Resources Mentioned:

• The Napping House 
• Joyful Noise Recorder Curriculum 

Connect with Erin: 

• YouTube
• Instagram
• Website: https://fromdoremitoyou.com/

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Today’s guest is someone who brings joy, creativity, and solid musicianship into every corner of her classroom—and beyond.

Erin Elliott has been sharing the joy of music since 2008 and is currently a K-5 elementary music teacher in northern Indiana. But her reach goes far beyond those school walls—she’s also the teacher-author behind From Do-Re-Mi To You, where she shares practical ideas and inspiration with music educators around the world.

Erin has taught everyone from curious kindergartners to future music teachers at the college level, always with a passion for sparking creativity and laying a strong musical foundation for every learner.

She holds a B.M.E. from the College of Wooster, a Music Certificate in Oboe from Bowling Green State University, and a Master’s in Music Education from the University of Louisville. She’s also Orff-certified through all three levels—thanks to her training at the University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.

Outside the music room, Erin is a proud band director’s wife, a mom to two wonderful kids (plus three adorable furbabies), and a self-proclaimed recorder geek. When she’s not teaching, you’ll likely find her with a chai latte in hand, relaxing by the lake in the Adirondack Mountains or tending to her garden.

She’s joining us today to share her “nuggets of fabulous” for managing time, staying energized, and keeping music teaching joyful and efficient—even when the to-do list is long. Get ready for a conversation that’s both practical and inspiring.

Let’s welcome Erin to the podcast!

Resources Mentioned:

• The Napping House 
• Joyful Noise Recorder Curriculum 

Connect with Erin: 

• YouTube
• Instagram
• Website: https://fromdoremitoyou.com/

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Welcome back to Part 2 of our conversation with the inspiring Leanna O’Brien! If you caught Part 1, you already know that Leanna is passionate about bringing music to life through movement—and helping educators feel confident doing it.

In this second half of our chat, we go even deeper. Leanna shares practical examples of how she brings movement into the classroom, explains how it reinforces key music concepts, and gives us some of her favorite “nuggets of fabulous” for music teachers everywhere. You’ll also hear her thoughts on advocacy, connection, and what she wishes every music educator could hear right now.

If you’re ready to be inspired, encouraged, and equipped—let’s jump back in!

Resources Mentioned:

• In the Hall of the Mountain Kin
• Flight of the Bumblebee
• Strega Nona Read Aloud

Connect with Leanna: 

• YouTube
• Facebook Group
• Website: https://soaringscarvesacademy.com/

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the show!

Today, we’re diving into a topic that will get your students moving—literally! We’re joined by the incredible Leanna O’Brien, a curriculum designer, movement specialist, and professional development expert who has made it her mission to bring music to life in classrooms around the world.

Leanna’s lessons are used in over 500 schools, and she’s known for integrating meaningful movement—think scarf dancing, movement breaks, and activities that teach tempo, pitch, texture, and more—in ways that are joyful, accessible, and deeply effective.

She’s the founder of The Soaring Scarves Academy, where she empowers educators to weave music and movement into their teaching so students can engage, remember, and thrive. Whether you’re looking to boost behavior management, deepen understanding, or just bring more fun into your music room, Leanna has a way of making it all feel possible—and exciting.

Resources Mentioned:

• In the Hall of the Mountain Kin
• Flight of the Bumblebee
• Strega Nona Read Aloud

Connect with Leanna: 

• YouTube
• Facebook Group
• Website: https://soaringscarvesacademy.com/

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Hey there, and welcome back to the show! I’m so glad you’re here—especially today—because this episode is something a little different and very close to my heart.

I’ll walk you through the five key parts of the book:

• The power of small steps in personal growth
• Helping others grow
• Redefining productivity and success
• Embracing diverse, colourful paths
• And designing your own journey

And yes—each chapter ends with reflection questions, because I want this to be about your journey, not just mine.

If you’re ready to dig deeper, The Stalagmite Effect is available now on Balboa Press and Amazon. I’d love for you to grab a copy, reflect on your own journey, and maybe even share it with someone who needs a little encouragement to grow in their own quiet, steady way.

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Welcome back to Part Two of our inspiring chat with the wonderful Kate Schirmer—musician, singing teacher, conductor, and vocal pedagogy powerhouse.

If you caught Part One, you already know Kate brings so much wisdom, warmth, and depth to the world of singing and music education. Today, we’re shifting gears just a little to talk about the music that moves her.

In this episode, Kate shares some of her all-time favorite choral pieces and composers—the ones that speak to her soul, challenge her as an artist, and remind her why she fell in love with music in the first place. From classical gems to contemporary treasures, this conversation is full of inspiration, nostalgia, and a few musical surprises.

Whether you’re a choir director, singer, or just someone who loves great music, you’ll come away with fresh ideas for your own playlists, rehearsals, or maybe even repertoire planning.

So let’s dive into Part Two with Kate Schirmer—and explore the songs and sounds that have shaped her journey.

Songs Mentioned in This Episode: 

• Hope - Jason Robert Brown/ Mark Brymer
• Beautiful City - Stephen Schwartz/Mack Huff
• From the Start - Laufey
• Diamonds and Crystals - Pete Churchill
• Anyone Can Whistle - Stephen Sondheim 

Kate's Favorite Composers: 

• MT: Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, Yve Blake, Kate Miller-Heidke & Keir Nuttall, Eddie Perfect, Tim Minchin 
• Classical: Reynaldo Hahn, Samuel Barber, Richard Strauss
• CCM: Paul Simon, Ben Folds, Tim Freedman, Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Regina Spektor

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the show! We have an absolute treat for you today—a conversation with someone whose passion for singing, teaching, and musical artistry runs deep.

Today’s guest is Kate Schirmer—musician, vocal pedagogue, conductor, and passionate music educator. Kate holds a Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours from the University of Queensland, and a Master of Music Studies in vocal pedagogy from the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University. She brings an incredible depth of experience to everything she does—from teaching singing at Griffith University and lecturing in the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre, to conducting the Queensland Show Choir’s young adult ensemble, Voiceworks, as its Artistic Director.

Kate has presented nationally and internationally, is a sought-after adjudicator, and is a proud long-time member of the Australian National Association of Teachers of Singing (ANATS), where she’s served extensively—including as president of the Queensland chapter. In fact, in 2021, she received the ANATS award for Outstanding Service.

But those are just the headlines. Hope you enjoy this episode! 

Songs Mentioned in This Episode: 

• Hope - Jason Robert Brown/ Mark Brymer
• Beautiful City - Stephen Schwartz/Mack Huff
• From the Start - Laufey
• Diamonds and Crystals - Pete Churchill
• Anyone Can Whistle - Stephen Sondheim 

Kate's Favorite Composers: 

• MT: Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, Yve Blake, Kate Miller-Heidke & Keir Nuttall, Eddie Perfect, Tim Minchin 
• Classical: Reynaldo Hahn, Samuel Barber, Richard Strauss
• CCM: Paul Simon, Ben Folds, Tim Freedman, Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Regina Spektor

Where to find me: 

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunity
Official Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDeb