🎻 Episode #93 – A Lifetime of Orchestral Excellence with Dr. Mark Laycock 🎶

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are honored to welcome Dr. Mark Laycock, Professor of Music at Wichita State University, where he holds the Ann Walenta Faculty of Distinction Endowed Professorship. As Director of Orchestras and Coordinator of Strings, Dr. Laycock has led the WSU Symphony Orchestra to international acclaim, including performances at Carnegie Hall, Spain, and Canada.

Beyond his work at WSU, Dr. Laycock is a Board Member and Chair of Orchestra Activities for the Midwest Clinic, a former Director of the Wichita Youth Symphony, and an internationally sought-after conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. His career has taken him across 35 states and multiple countries, working with ensembles in Australia, Slovakia, Canada, and Thailand. His contributions to ASTA, NAfME, Conn-Selmer Institute, and state music conferences nationwide have shaped the future of string and orchestral education.

Join us for an insightful conversation about music education, orchestral leadership, conducting, and the evolving landscape of string pedagogy. Whether you’re a music educator, conductor, or passionate about orchestral performance, you won’t want to miss Dr. Laycock’s expert perspective!

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #StringEducation #OrchestraDirector #DrMarkLaycock #MidwestClinic #ASTA #GMEA #WSUSymphony

CONTACT:  [email protected]

WEB: https://www.wichita.edu/academics/fine_arts/music/

— REFERRAL LINKS & SPONSORS —

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy the experience! 

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link:

https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk

Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.

tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnow

Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!

https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi

Resources and more information at www.orchestrateacher.net

#TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast

#OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter

I am proud to announce that The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is now sponsored by Kaleidoscope Adventures! As a leader in the student travel industry for 30+ years, Kaleidoscope Adventures exceeds expectations for student and performance group travel.Learn more at https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast

🎻 Episode #92 – Inspiring Excellence in Music Education with Stephen Lawrence-Carroll 🎶

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Stephen Lawrence-Carroll, an esteemed music educator and Director of Orchestral and Music Theory Activities at North Atlanta High School in Atlanta, GA. As the Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair, Stephen has been a driving force in shaping the future of music education, earning accolades such as Atlanta Public Schools High School Teacher of the Year, Educator of the Year by ASTA Georgia, and the CMA Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award.

Stephen shares his journey, from his early influences to his passion for orchestral instruction, curriculum development, and advocacy for the arts. We discuss his experiences presenting at major conferences, his role as State Orchestra Chair for GMEA (2021-2023), and how he continues to inspire students and fellow educators alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned orchestra director or just starting your teaching career, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice from one of the best in the field!

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation!

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #StringEducation #OrchestraDirector #StephenLawrenceCarroll #ASTA #GMEA #CMAFoundation

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Stephen Lawrence-Carroll serves as the Director of Orchestral and Music Theory Activities at North Atlanta High School in Atlanta, GA, where his dedication to the arts extends to his role as the Fine and Performing Arts Department Chair. His remarkable contributions to education have garnered numerous accolades, including the distinguished title of Teacher of the Year for the 2018-2019 academic year and High School Teacher of the Year within the Atlanta Public School System. Stephen's passion and expertise have not only been recognized locally but also at the state and national level, with distinctions such as the Educator of the Year by the American String Teacher’s Association Georgia Chapter, the Atlanta Public Schools Fine Arts Teacher Excellence Award, and the prestigious Country Music Awards Foundation Music Teacher of Excellence Award. In addition to his honors, Stephen has been a prominent figure in music education conferences, sharing his insights at events like the Georgia Music Educators Association Conference, the Texas Music Educators Association Conference, and the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Conference. His dedication extended to serving as the State Orchestra Chair for the Georgia Music Educator's Association from 2021-2023. Stephen Lawrence-Carroll holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Loyola University New Orleans and a Master of Music Education from the University of Georgia.

Contact: [email protected]

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Episode #91: Fiddling in the Classroom with Kiana June Weber

In this exciting episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Kiana June Weber—renowned American-Irish fiddler, educator, and entrepreneur—to discuss her inspiring journey and how teachers can incorporate fiddling into the classroom.

A visionary educator and thought leader, Kiana has built a career that blends traditional and modern approaches, breaking down barriers in music education. From performing on world stages with Barrage, Gaelic Storm, and Come From Away, to mentoring students across the globe, Kiana’s innovative methods help develop technical mastery, creativity, emotional intelligence, and personal growth.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

🎻 The benefits of integrating fiddling and alternative styles into string education

🎻 Ways to engage and inspire young musicians through crossover styles

🎻 strategies for implementing fiddling into your orchestra program

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, private instructor, or performer, this conversation will provide fresh ideas and practical tools to expand your students’ musical horizons. Tune in for an engaging discussion with one of today’s most dynamic and forward-thinking string educators! 🎶

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Kiana June Weber was born and raised on a farm just outside the small town of Chelsea, Michigan. She began playing the piano at the age of 5, but soon after, she begged her parents to let her play the violin. At the age of 7, she started taking Suzuki violin lessons and by 14, she was playing in the most elite youth orchestras and ensembles in Michigan.

After graduating high school, Kiana attended the University of Michigan (UM) where she studied violin with Stephen Shipps. While at UM, she continued to gig with many bands while exploring alternative styles on the violin. In 2007, Kiana formed her own acoustic trio called the Daughters of Newgrass, which performed original compositions of a diverse fusion of rock, Celtic, Bluegrass, and Jazz. In 2009, Kiana’s studies were put on hold when she was recruited by the world famous violin troupe, Barrage.

Kiana toured with Barrage for three years and appeared in theaters, festival stages, and television specials all over the North America, Central America, Europe and Asia. One of the highlights of her travels was performing on Beijing TV’s televised Chinese New Year Special to an estimated 50 million viewers. After Barrage Kiana returned to her studies and graduated at the top of her class at University of Michigan’s prestigious School of Music. In the fall of 2012, Kiana hit the stage as the newest member of the famous Irish band, Gaelic Storm.

In 2019 Kiana joined the touring cast of Tony Award Winning musical Come From Away.  Playing fiddle with this production, Kiana brings her expertise of Celtic music and on-stage charisma to this first national tour. 

Website: kianajune.com

Instagram: instagram.com/kianajuneweber

links to upcoming events with Kiana:

https://www.kianajune.com/upcomingevents

Two free workshops that your listeners might love! 

* “From Zero to Fiddle in 60 minutes”  Designed to bring classical players on their fiddling journey. Completely free. All instruments are welcome. 

* “The Folk Orchestra”  A practical and hands-on workshop discovering how to actually use and program fiddle tunes.

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Building Bridges: Fostering Collaboration Between Band and Orchestra Directors

In this special episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome two outstanding music educators, Susan Abell and Nick Blue, to discuss the importance of building a collaborative and supportive relationship between band and orchestra directors.

Far too often, band and orchestra programs operate in isolation—or even in competition with each other. But what if we shifted that mindset to one of partnership and mutual support? Susan and Nick will share real-world success stories and tangible strategies for fostering a culture of teamwork that benefits all students and strengthens the entire school music program.

Topics will include:

🎵 How to establish open communication and a shared vision

🎵 Strategies for coordinating schedules and sharing resources

🎵 The educational and logistical benefits of collaboration

🎵 Ideas for joint performances, cross-program events, and team teaching

🎵 Overcoming challenges and shifting mindsets

Whether you’re a middle or high school band or orchestra director, this episode will provide actionable steps to help you break down barriers, build strong connections with your instrumental counterpart, and create a thriving, unified music program.

Tune in for an inspiring and practical discussion on how working together can elevate music education for everyone! 🎻🎺🎶

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Susan Abell, a Bowling Green, KY native, earned her BME and MAE at Western Kentucky University, where she was active in CNAfME, ASTA, Delta Omicron, and served as Orchestra Graduate Assistant under Dr. Bill Scott. She began orchestra programs at Grassland and Brentwood Middle Schools in Tennessee, growing Grassland's program to achieve consistent Superior ratings and numerous Mid-State selections. In 2023, Ms. Abell expanded her role to include teaching at Franklin High School while continuing her work at Grassland Middle School. In  2022, she joined the Vanderbilt Youth Orchestra Program, where she significantly increased student enrollment in the three string orchestras. Ms. Abell now serves as Assistant Orchestra Director at Simpson Middle School in Marietta, Georgia. In her free time, Ms. Abell enjoys being outdoors, playing with her dogs and going to concerts. 

Nicholas Blue is the Assistant Director of Bands at Franklin High School in Franklin, TN. Originally from Indiana, Mr. Blue is a graduate of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Prior to his time at Franklin High School, Mr. Blue was the Director of Bands at Grassland Middle School in Franklin, TN. Ensembles under Mr. Blue’s direction have earned superior ratings at MTSBOA Concert Performance Assessment and other festivals, recently performing at the Belmont University Regional Wind Band Festival sponsored by Music for All. Throughout Mr. Blue’s time with the Franklin Marching Band, the group has been a perennial Bands of America Regional finalist and Grand Nationals Semi Finalist, and was named Grand Champion at the MTSU Contest of Champions in 2024. The band has been invited to perform in the 2026 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade.  Blue has presented professional development clinics for the Midwest Clinic, the American String Teachers Association, and the Tennessee Music Education Association, and in 2025 was named a Yamaha “40 Under 40” Music Educator. 

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

In this special episode, hosts Charles Laux and Jessica Fuchs dive into their upcoming presentation at the ASTA National Conference:Compare, Contrast, Collaborate: Perspectives from Early and Late Career Experiences.

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of orchestra education through the lens of both new and seasoned educators. We’ll discuss classroom strategies, programming decisions, mentorship, and the role of technology in today’s orchestra programs. With a shared background in Cobb County, Georgia, Charles and Jessie reflect on their unique career journeys and how collaboration between different experience levels can enhance teaching effectiveness.

Whether you’re just starting your career or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of orchestra education. Tune in to hear firsthand perspectives on fostering community, adapting to changing student needs, and navigating the ever-evolving world of music education!

#OrchestraTeacherPodcast #ASTA2025 #MusicEducation #StringEd

Jessica Fuchs currently serves as Director of Orchestras at Kell High School in Marietta, GA, where she has been since 2022. Prior to her position at Kell, she served as Orchestra Director at Ola Middle School and Co-Orchestra Director at Dodgen Middle School. Under her direction, the orchestra programs increased in enrollment and repeatedly received superior ratings at LGPE. As an educator, Mrs. Fuchs strives to facilitate a creative, engaging, purposeful, and inclusive learning environment for all students.

A native of Acworth, Georgia, Mrs. Fuchs holds a Bachelor’s of Music Education from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she studied under the guidance of Dr. Rebecca MacLeod and Dr. Fabian Lopez. During her time at UNCG, Mrs. Fuchs held the position of Undergraduate Research Assistant and was the recipient of the Community-Based Undergraduate Research and Creativity Award in 2018. In 2020, her work on “Near-Peer Mentorship: A Model for Private Music Instruction in an Underserved Community” was published in String Research Journal.

Mrs. Fuchs serves as GMEA District 12 Orchestra Chair, GMEA District 12 LGPE Coordinator, sits on the K-12 ASTA Committee and CCSD Fine Arts Advisory Council. She is an active member of GMEA, ASTA, and NafME and is a sought after Violin clinician in the Atlanta area.

EMAIL: [email protected]

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Amy Clement has taught orchestra in Gwinnett County since 1997. She is currently in her 16th year as one of the orchestra directors at North Gwinnett Middle School. Orchestras under the direction of Ms. Clement have consistently received superior ratings at Large Group Performance Evaluation and her students also participate in solo/ensemble, countywide honor orchestras, MYSO, ASYO and Georgia all-state orchestra. The NGMS orchestra received the GMEA Exemplary Performance Award in 2009, 2015, and the NGMS fine arts department received the first GMEA Music Program of the Year in 2018. Under Ms. Clement’s leadership, the NGMS 8th grade orchestra was selected to perform at the GMEA conference in Athens January of 2024, and Savannah January of 2012. The NGMS honor orchestra was selected to perform at the Midwest Band and Orchestra clinic in December of 2013 and Carnegie Hall in April of 2017.

Ms. Clement has presented at conferences in Georgia, the national ASTA conference in Orlando as well as the Utah Music Educators Association. She has served as a clinician and adjudicator throughout Georgia. Ms. Clement has held leadership positions as Georgia ASTA treasurer, GA ASTA President, was a member of the ASTA K-12 committee (2018-2020), GMEA District 13 orchestra division chair (2010-2012), GMEA District 13 treasurer (2016-2018) and GMEA Vice-President in charge of all state events (2017-2019). She is currently Past President of Georgia ASTA and is one of two middle school orchestra lead teachers for Gwinnett County Public Schools. In 2012, she was awarded GMEA’s Volunteer of the Year.

A native of Louisville, KY, Ms. Clement began studying the violin at age five at the University of Louisville. She is a graduate of Loyola University in New Orleans where she studied violin with Valerie Poullette and string education with Dean Angeles. Ms. Clement received her BM in music performance and MME in string education. She and her husband Andy live in Lawrenceville, Georgia, with their dogs Zoey & Lovey.

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Sarah Ball has been teaching orchestra for twenty-eight years, currently at North Gwinnett Middle School in Sugar Hill, Ga, where she is one of three orchestra directors. The NGMS orchestra program has 600+ students enrolled in grades 6-8. The 8th grade orchestra was selected to perform at GMEA in January (2012 and 2024), and received the GMEA Exemplary Performance Award in 2009 and 2015. In December 2013, the NGMS Honor Orchestra was one of three middle school orchestras selected internationally to perform in Chicago, Illinois at the Midwest Clinic, and has performed at Carnegie Hall.

Mrs. Ball has presented professional development sessions at the school, county, state and national level including the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, national ASTA conference and The Ohio State University String Teacher’s Workshop, and the Habits Institute in Charleston, SC. She is active as a clinician, adjudicator, and conductor throughout the country. Mrs. Ball is on the author team for the new GIA Publication, Habits of a Successful Young String Musician. She is passionate about making learning fun, impactful, and inspiring all while holding students to highs standards. Ball started violin at the age of 10 in the Henderson County (NC) strings program. She currently resides in Johns Creek, Georgia with her husband Jerrod, and their cats, Topsy and Turvy.

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast – Special Guest Harrison Cook 🎻

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Harrison Cook, Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Cobb County, Georgia. Now in his ninth year of teaching, Harrison brings a unique perspective to the classroom, having transitioned from a full-time career as a professional cellist to an award-winning educator.

Join us as we dive into his journey—from performing with world-renowned ensembles like the Atlanta Symphony abd the Atlanta Opera to leading outstanding school orchestras that consistently earn superior ratings at LGPE. Harrison shares insights on cello pedagogy, effective teaching strategies, and the intersection of performance and education.

We’ll also explore his experiences performing in over 10 countries, and his success in mentoring students who have gone on to prestigious conservatories. Whether you’re a seasoned educator, a new teacher, or a musician looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Harrison’s story of passion, performance, and pedagogy!

#OrchestraTeacher #MusicEducation #HarrisonCook #Orchestra #Cello #MusicPedagogy

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Harrison is currently the Director of Orchestras at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Cobb County, Georgia. He is currently in his ninth year of teaching, after having a full career as a professional musician. He has previously directed orchestras as Simpson Middle School and Sprayberry High School, all within Cobb County. His orchestras have consistently scored superior rating at LGPE. He has had the honor of presenting sessions on cello pedagogy, and has performed as a soloist with several orchestras and choirs at the annual Georgia Music educators Association conference.

Harrison received his BA from Georgia State University and his Masters in Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University for cello performance. He has played in various professional ensembles including the Atlanta Symphony, Atlanta Opera, Atlanta Ballet, Greenville Symphony, and many others. As a performer, Harrison has had the opportunity to play around the world in over 10 countries, including performances in Italy, Monaco, and a solo tour in China. In addition to his symphonic work, Harrison is an active member of the Atlanta music scene, doing studio work for films, games, and performing artists. Harrison has a robust private studio, with students consistently performing at All State and Honor Orchestra, attending summer institutes such as Brevard, Franklin Pond, Suwanee, and Interlochen, as well as universities such as Peabody Conservatory, Indiana University, Cincinnati Conservatory, and the Cleveland Institute of Music.

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I have a conversation with Angela Harman, a dynamic music educator and leader in the string education community. Angela teaches orchestra in Utah’s Nebo School District, where her dedication and passion have grown her program to include over 360 students daily.

Angela is also the founder of OrchestraClassroom.com, a widely respected resource for string teachers, where she shares innovative ideas and practical methods for orchestra classrooms. As a sought-after presenter, Angela has shared her expertise at national and state-level conferences, including NAfME and ASTA, and has contributed articles to prestigious publications such as Teaching Music magazine and the SmartMusic Blog. She’s even a co-author of The String Teacher’s Guide to Recruiting and Retention.

Join us as Angela shares her journey as an educator, her strategies for program growth, and her passion for empowering students through music. You’ll hear about her award-winning work, including recognition from UMEA, Give A Note, and Best of State in public music education. Angela’s insights and creative ideas will inspire orchestra teachers at all levels to take their programs to the next level.

🎧 Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the most influential voices in string education today!

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BIOGRAPHY:

Angela Harman teaches orchestra in Utah’s Nebo School District. She has substantially grown the orchestra program at her school, currently teaching over 360 students daily. 

Angela is the founder of www.orchestraclassroom.com, where she posts ideas and methods that she uses in her classroom. Her blog is well known in the string teacher sphere, and many find inspiration in her articles.

Angela served as UMEA Orchestra VP and is currently serving on the NAfME National Orchestra Council. As a sought-out presenter, Angela frequently teaches at professional development conferences including national NAfME, ASTA, state MEA conferences and school districts. She has been featured in NAfME's 'Music in a Minuet' blog and 'Teaching Music' magazine. She has had articles published in the UMEA Journal. SmartMusic blog, and GradeCam blog.  She is a contributing author of the book ‘The String Teacher’s Guide to Recruiting and Retention.

Angela has earned a number of awards including: Give A Note Tour from Radio Disney/Give a Note foundation (2016), Superior Accomplishment Award (UMEA, 2017), and Best of State in public music education (bestofstate.org,2020). 

Contact: [email protected]

Website: www.orchestraclassroom.com

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/orchestra-classroom

Instagram: @orchestra.teacher.life

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orchestraclassroom

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link:

https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk

Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.

tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnow

Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!

https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi

—

#TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast

#OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Christine E. Gero, an accomplished conductor, violinist, and music educator.

🎧 Tune in to learn more about Ms. Gero’s unique path, her experiences as a violinist and educator, and her thoughts on keeping orchestra education vibrant and relevant in today’s world.

Don’t miss this exciting episode!

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BIOGRAPHY

Christine E. Gero began her tenure as Roosevelt High School’s Orchestra Director in 2018. Previously, she was the Newport High School Orchestra Director in Bellevue, WA from 2013-2018.
Ms. Gero has performed as conductor and violinist in various settings, from Carnegie Hall to the famous rock club CBGB’s in New York. She has studied violin primarily with Charles Johnston, Yuri Vodovoz of the Alaria Chamber Ensemble (Mannes College), and Joey Corpus in New York City. As a chamber musician she has performed throughout the NY metropolitan area and in Prague at the Ameropa Music Festival. Ms. Gero’s work in alternative music genres include studies with acclaimed jazz violinist, John Blake Jr. as well as performances and recording with rock bands and singer-songwriters in New York City and Seattle.  
Ms. Gero received her B.A. in Music and her M.A. in Music Education from New York University. While working towards her master’s degree, she also received her Suzuki Teacher Certification at the prestigious School for Strings on West 54th Street in Manhattan where she was the last cohort to study under Louise Behrend for 2 complete years.  Ms. Gero began her teaching career as part of the music faculty at the Elisabeth Morrow School in Englewood, NJ. During that same time, she created and built a thriving private violin/viola studio in both New Jersey and New York. In 2003, Ms. Gero became the Orchestra Director for Nyack Public Schools, where she later also served as Chair of the Music Department. Originally from the New York metropolitan area, Ms. Gero relocated to Seattle in 2013 where she enjoys the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with her son.

Contact: [email protected]

Websites: christinegero.com

https://www.rooseveltorchestra.org/

Socials:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-gero-aa5b449/

https://www.facebook.com/christine.gero.5

https://www.instagram.com/rosescandles2025/

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Please follow/like/subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel or browse ideas and resources on my website!

Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net

YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher

Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z

Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262

-- REFERRAL LINKS --

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. They know the best destinations and most iconic venues for orchestras. Check out the Kaleidoscope Adventures link below for fresh ideas and inspiration – and then let them work their magic! They’ll handle all the details from start to finish so all you have to do is enjoy theexperience!

https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/

Looking for things on Amazon?  Use my referral link:

https://amzn.to/3RkfRLk

Do you keep a monthly budget?  If not, try You Need a Budget!  It’s a great app/website that helps keep your finances on track.

tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnow

Do you have cable?  Cut the cord and check out YouTube TV!  It works on mobile, Smart TVs, the web and more!

https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi

—

#TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast

#OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter