Claire is an incredible music educator who believes in the power of curiosity—both for us as teachers and for our students. How can we create a classroom environment where students feel encouraged to wonder, explore, and ask questions about the music they hear and create? How can curiosity fuel deeper learning, creativity, and engagement? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today.

So, whether you’re driving to work, setting up your classroom, or just taking a well-deserved break, get ready for an inspiring conversation about fostering curiosity in the music room. Let’s welcome Claire to the podcast!

Claire's Biography:

Claire Hornagold is a music teacher in Brisbane with over 20 years’ experience teaching both instrumental music and classroom music. She graduated with Honours from the Queensland Conservatorium and began teaching with Education Queensland in 2011. During this time, Claire has been a primary music specialist, an instrumental music teacher, and a team teacher in a general classroom. 

Her passion lies with classroom music and also curriculum, and as a result she has rewritten the P-6 music curriculum at 2 different schools and has started rewriting the curriculum for Version 9 at her current school, as part of their ‘innovation team’. Claire strongly believes in making links between Music and other aspects of student learning, and she actively seeks opportunities to incorporate other learning into Music lessons and assessment. 

Claire has also worked heavily in the extra-curricular music space, in growing choral programs, initiating piano concerts and whole school singing sessions, and being Producer for 2 primary school musicals. She is taking on an additional challenge this year of being a Year 2 teacher one day a week and is looking forward to seeing what this brings!

Links Mentioned in this Series:

• James Morrison Video  
• Ostinato Video  
• Anthems website 
• Wheel of Names  

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 The Crescendo Music Education Podcast! If you tuned in to Part 1 of our conversation with Miranda, you know we explored the joy of music education and how to embrace the journey. But today, we’re diving even deeper—into those unforgettable impactful teaching moments that remind us why we do what we do.

Every music teacher has those moments—the ones that stick with us long after the lesson ends. Maybe it’s a breakthrough with a struggling student, a performance that gave everyone chills, or just a simple ‘aha’ moment that made all the difference. Miranda and I will be sharing some of our most meaningful experiences, reflecting on what makes a lesson truly impactful, and how we can create more of these moments in our classrooms.

So, let’s jump back in and continue this inspiring conversation with Miranda!

Links Mentioned in this Series:

• Dr Anita Collins – Bigger Better Brains
• Crescendo Membership
• Music Play-Online membership through Crescendo
• Little Blue – Jacob Collier

 
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 The Crescendo Music Education Podcast, the show where we dive into all things music education—tips, inspiration, and real conversations to help you thrive in the classroom. I’m Debbie O'Shea, and today, I have a special guest joining me: Miranda!

Miranda is a passionate music educator who truly believes in embracing the journey, not just the destination, when it comes to teaching music. Whether you're a first-year teacher or a seasoned pro, it’s easy to get caught up in the challenges—lesson planning, assessments, performances—but how often do we take a step back and enjoy the process?

In this episode, we’ll chat about finding joy in the everyday moments, fostering a love of music in our students, and remembering why we started this journey in the first place. So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into this inspiring conversation with Miranda!

Links Mentioned in this Series:

• Dr Anita Collins – Bigger Better Brains
• Crescendo Membership
• Music Play-Online membership through Crescendo
• Little Blue – Jacob Collier

 
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 The Crescendo Music Education Podcast, the show where we dive into all things music education, choral leadership, and the power of inclusive teaching. Today, I’m thrilled to welcome a very special guest—Elliot Rentoul!

Elliot is a Brisbane-based composer, educator, and choral specialist who’s passionate about making music education accessible, engaging, and deeply connected to community. As an early-career music specialist with several Kodály levels under their belt, Elliot brings an aural-vocal approach that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity in students. And let’s not forget—they’re a self-professed solfa nerd!

Beyond the classroom, Elliot leads the thriving Brisbane Pride Choir, sings with the Brisbane Chamber Choir, and contributes to the choral community through their work with the Australian National Choral Association.

Let’s get started!

 
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, we’re diving into the heart of music education—teaching tools.

For me, the voice is my favorite and most versatile tool in the music classroom. It’s the instrument we all carry with us, and it opens endless opportunities for connection, creativity, and learning. Whether it’s singing, chanting, or exploring vocal games, the voice helps create a powerful and inclusive learning environment.

I’ll also share how Judy Creen’s incredible resources have been a game-changer in my teaching. Her materials bring structure and inspiration to the music room, offering tools that are practical, engaging, and effective for students of all ages. Judy’s work has helped me weave together the threads of music and education seamlessly, ensuring that every student finds their own rhythm and voice.

In this episode, we’ll explore why these tools are so impactful, how I use them in my classroom, and some tips for incorporating them into your teaching practice. So, let’s get started and bring these tools to life! 🎶

Links Mentioned in this Episode:
🎶 Idea of North – Muskjainada

💻 Judy Creen's resources:

• 30 Thematic Singing Games
• Music in a Multi-Age Classroom 

🎤 We Gather Here Together 

 
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 to Kathryn’s Musical Heartbeat, where the rhythm of life and the melody of learning collide!

From a grandfather who paid $100 for both a house and a piano, to a great-aunt honored in Edinburgh for her extraordinary contributions to singing, playing, and composing music—it seems music was destined to flow through my veins.

After teaching as a classroom teacher for 10 years, I discovered just how deeply music and learning are intertwined. A life-changing 16-week in-service program sparked a passion for music education that’s been my driving force for over 40 years. Together with my incredible Mackay colleagues, we’ve become a leading voice in music education, championing innovative approaches and inspiring students and educators alike.

Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of being trained by legends like Judy Johnson and Anne Comiskey, and personally inspired by giants in music education such as Lois Choksy, Denise Bacon, and Katalin Forrai—who once played music games with my son Stephen as he sat in his stroller in Mackay’s Conservatorium Theatre!

Join me as we explore the stories, people, and ideas that make music the heartbeat of education and life itself. Let’s dive in! 🎶

Links Mentioned in this Episode:
🎶 Idea of North – Muskjainada 
 
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 to The Crescendo Music Education Podcast, where we explore the power of music to bring people together and celebrate diversity!

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome a very special guest, Bryson—a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the music classroom. Bryson has dedicated his career to ensuring every student, regardless of ability, background, or learning style, feels seen, heard, and valued in the music room.

If you’re ready to learn how to make your music classroom a space where all students can thrive, this is the episode for you. So grab a seat, tune in, and let’s create harmony through inclusion! 🎶

🎶 Find more about Bryson:

• Website
• That Music Podcast
• Instagram
• Facebook

Where to find me:

Crescendo Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crescendocommunityOfficial Crescendo Page: https://www.facebook.com/CrescendoMusicEd/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CrescendoMusicEdTwitter: https://twitter.com/crescendomusicLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-o-shea-62a3741b/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CrescendoDebbie/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/crescendodebbie/

Today, we’re diving into Part 2 of our inspiring conversation with the incredible Ralph Hultgren. If you joined us last time, you know we explored Ralph’s passion for music education and his art of composing.

In this episode, we’re shifting the spotlight to something truly vital: advocating for the child. Ralph shares his wisdom on why every decision we make as educators should start and end with the best interests of the child in mind. From fostering creativity to nurturing confidence, we’ll unpack how advocacy can transform the music room—and beyond.

Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just beginning your journey, Ralph’s insights will challenge and inspire you to put students at the heart of everything you do.

Biography of Ralph Hultgren:
Ralph Hultgren, born in Box Hill, Victoria, Australia, is a distinguished freelance teacher, composer, and conductor currently residing in Newmarket, Queensland. He began his professional music career in 1970 as a trumpet player with the Central Band of the Royal Australian Air Force. Dr. Hultgren has made significant contributions to music education and has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including being named a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2016. He is the Patron of the Maryborough Music Conference and has received the Midwest Clinic International Award for his global contributions to music education. Ralf received the Citation of Excellence from the Australian Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association, as well as life membership of ABODA.

Dr. Hultgren's extensive academic career includes serving as Head of Open Conservatorium at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, where he lectured in conducting and instrumental music education and conducted the Queensland Conservatorium Wind Orchestra. He has also performed with notable ensembles like the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Brass Choir. While composing and conducting are his primary focuses today, teaching remains his greatest passion. Outside of music, he enjoys reading, listening to various genres, and leading a men's group at his church, cherishing time with his family.

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 to this special episode of the podcast, where we’re thrilled to have the legendary Ralph Hultgren as our guest! Ralph is a celebrated composer, conductor, and educator whose music has inspired musicians around the globe. In this episode, we’ll dive into his incredible journey—from his early days discovering his passion for music to becoming one of the most respected composers in the industry.

Ralph will also give us a behind-the-scenes look at his composition process. How does he bring a piece of music to life? What inspires his work? And what advice does he have for aspiring composers and educators? Whether you’re a music lover, teacher, or creator, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will leave you inspired. Let’s get started! 🎶

Biography of Ralph Hultgren:
Ralph Hultgren, born in Box Hill, Victoria, Australia, is a distinguished freelance teacher, composer, and conductor currently residing in Newmarket, Queensland. He began his professional music career in 1970 as a trumpet player with the Central Band of the Royal Australian Air Force. Dr. Hultgren has made significant contributions to music education and has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including being named a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2016. He is the Patron of the Maryborough Music Conference and has received the Midwest Clinic International Award for his global contributions to music education. Ralf received the Citation of Excellence from the Australian Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association, as well as life membership of ABODA.

Dr. Hultgren's extensive academic career includes serving as Head of Open Conservatorium at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, where he lectured in conducting and instrumental music education and conducted the Queensland Conservatorium Wind Orchestra. He has also performed with notable ensembles like the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Brass Choir. While composing and conducting are his primary focuses today, teaching remains his greatest passion. Outside of music, he enjoys reading, listening to various genres, and leading a men's group at his church, cherishing time with his family.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:
🎶 Together Sing
🎙️ Together Sing Podcast Ep 72

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 to Part 3 of our inspiring conversation with David Law! This time, we’re exploring the heart of music education: students as music makers. From instruments to choir, David shares his thoughts on fostering collaboration and encouraging self-reflection. 

Get ready to feel inspired, motivated, and equipped with practical strategies to empower your students as music makers. Let’s dive in! 🎶

Biography of David Law:
David Law has conducted the Wind Ensemble since 2009, starting his QYO journey as a member in 1997. He studied euphonium at Queensland University of Technology and has played piano since age eight. As the Founding President and Musical Director of the Queensland Wind Orchestra, he also conducts the Queensland Youth Orchestra Wind Ensemble and has guest conducted for various ensembles, including the Brisbane Philharmonic Orchestra.

David is an experienced clinician and conductor, working with Queensland Music Festival and Griffith University’s State Honours Ensemble Program. He regularly leads school honor bands and presents at conferences on successful school band programs. Additionally, he has adjudicated state and national competitions.

In musical theatre, he has served as Music Director and Conductor, trained at the Goodspeed Musical Theatre Institute, and conducted workshops for Opera Queensland. Currently, he is the Head of Performance Music at Redeemer Lutheran College, directing award-winning ensembles.

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