In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with Darren Sacks, one of Greater Boston’s leading double bass educators, to discuss how young bassists can transform their playing and mindset to reach new levels of success.

Sacks shares his journey from discovering the double bass on a high school field trip to building a thriving studio that prepares students for competitive auditions across the country—including the MMEA All-State Festival, Interlochen, CASMEC, and top conservatories such as Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music.

Listeners will hear insights on developing efficient practice systems, audition strategies, and the mindset needed for long-term growth. Sacks and Dr. Laux also dive into practical teaching topics such as right-hand setup, standing vs. sitting posture, German vs. French bow technique, and how orchestra teachers can better support their bass sections.

Whether you teach bass or simply want to help your students practice smarter, this episode offers valuable takeaways for educators and performers alike.

🎧 Guest Bio:

Darren Sacks teaches double bass at the University of Massachusetts Boston and works with the Boston Music Project and El Sistema Somerville. His students consistently earn top placements in regional and national youth programs. A performer with the Cape Symphony, Portland Symphony, Boston Philharmonic, and more, Sacks holds degrees from the Hartt School and Boston Conservatory and is passionate about helping serious young bassists bridge the gap between school orchestra and elite audition success.

http://www.darrensacksbasscoach.com

Facebook Teaching Page: https://www.facebook.com/people/Darren-Sacks-Bass-Coach/61579266980559/

Facebook Group: "Parents of Young Double Bassists | Audition Prep & Success Tips"

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1154710079820381

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

#doublebass #bassauditiontips #bassauditionpreparation #bassteaching #doublebassteacher #basspedagogy #orchestrateacherpodcast #charleslaux #darrensacks #musiceducation #stringeducation #basstechnique #howtopracticebass #bassauditionstrategy #bassstudents #youthorchestraaudition #musicauditions #bassauditionadvice #howtoteachbass #UMassBostonbass #BostonMusicProject #ElSistemaSomerville #doublebasspracticetips #bassauditionmindset #bassbowgrip #FrenchbowvsGermanbow #standingvssittingbass #doublebassposture #bassperformancetips #studentmotivation #musicmindset #practiceefficiency #orchestraeducationpodcast

118. Repertoire, Routines, and Fresh Perspectives with Abby Miles, Dublin City Schools (OH)

In this episode, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes Abby Miles, orchestra director at Eversole Run Middle School in Dublin City Schools, Ohio. Abby shares her journey from studying music education at Baldwin Wallace University to teaching 5th–12th grade in Perrysburg, where her ensembles performed at the OMEA State Conference and the ASTA National Orchestra Festival.

Now in her seventh year of teaching, Abby reflects on the lessons she learned from strong mentors, the challenges of starting her career during the pandemic, and the transition from high school to middle school orchestra. She also discusses her approach to programming repertoire that resonates with students, the importance of routine and structure in the classroom, and her favorite teaching tool—ClassroomScreen.

Abby’s passion for inclusive, high-quality music education shines through as she shares practical strategies for engaging young musicians and creating meaningful learning experiences.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Abigail is the orchestra director at Eversole Run Middle School in Dublin City Schools. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace University in 2019. Before joining Dublin City Schools in 2025, Abigail taught 5th–12th grade orchestra in Perrysburg Schools in Perrysburg, Ohio, where her ensembles consistently earned superior ratings at OMEA Large Group contests. Her groups also performed at the OMEA State Professional Development Conference and the 2024 National Orchestra Festival in Louisville, Kentucky, as part of the ASTA National Convention. 

In addition to her work in the classroom, Abigail is an active performer and conductor. She has conducted the Baldwin Wallace University Middle School Strings Camp, Ohio State Morning Strings Camp and actively performs her cello throughout the state of Ohio. Abigail is passionate about providing inclusive, high-quality music education and fostering a lifelong love of music in her students.

Link mentioned in the podcast: https://classroomscreen.com

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

117. Composing Beyond Limits, Inspiring Musicians with Brian Balmages

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes world-renowned composer and conductor Brian Balmages. Known for his powerful and versatile works for orchestra, band, and chamber ensembles, Balmages’ music has been performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House. He has conducted across the globe with ensembles ranging from professional symphonies to The President’s Own United States Marine Band.

Brian shares his unique musical journey—including how he built his career without traditional composition or performance degrees, the influence of his musical family, and the pivotal orchestral experiences that shaped his path. He discusses the importance of failure in the creative process, the need for young musicians to embrace rigor and dedication, and how teaching and performing intersect in the life of every musician.

We also explore his latest projects, including A Hundred Horizons, a new festival-style orchestra piece, and his innovative work with MakeMusic Cloud (formerly SmartMusic), where he has been creating engaging, soundtrack-based practice foundations that are transforming the way students approach technical skills.

Join us for this inspiring conversation with one of today’s most influential voices in instrumental music education and composition.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Brian Balmages is known worldwide as a composer and conductor who equally spans the worlds of orchestral, band, and chamber music. His music has been performed by groups ranging from professional symphony orchestras to elementary schools in venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Sydney Opera House, Toronto Centre for the Arts, and many more. As a conductor, he has performed in nearly all 50 states with notable engagements including “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, United States Air Force Band, performances at the Midwest Clinic, Western International Band Clinic, Maryborough Music Conference (Australia), numerous state ASTA conferences, Teatro dell’Aquila (Italy), and others. He is an elected member of the American Bandmasters Association and won the 2024 Outstanding Contributor Award presented by the Phi Beta Mu International Bandmasters Fraternity. Currently, he is Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred Music and MakeMusic.

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

Episode 116 – Directing, Composing, Inspiring: A Conversation with Dr. Perry Holbrook

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Perry Holbrook, Artistic Director of Orchestras at Walton High School in Cobb County, Georgia. Over his 25-year tenure, Dr. Holbrook has grown the Walton Orchestra program from 130 to over 300 students, leading ensembles to perform at The Midwest Clinic, the ASTA National Conference, and GMEA, as well as on multiple European tours.

Charles and Dr. Holbrook discuss his unique journey from trumpet major to acclaimed orchestra director, the traditions and culture of the Walton program, and his approaches to student leadership, rehearsal strategies, and creating meaningful musical experiences. They also dive into his flourishing career as a composer, exploring how pieces like Someday, Never Summer Mountain, and Acadian Solstice came to life and continue to inspire student ensembles across the country.

Whether you’re interested in program-building, rehearsal philosophy, or composing for young orchestras, this conversation is full of valuable insights from one of the most respected voices in our field.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Perry Holbrook serves as the Artistic Director of Orchestras at Walton High School. Over the past 25 years he has guided the program’s growth from 130 to more than 300 students. Under his leadership, Walton ensembles have earned multiple invitations to perform at The Midwest Clinic, the ASTA National Conference, and the Georgia Music Educators Association In-Service Conference, as well as completing several European concert tours.

Beyond his own program, Dr. Holbrook is a sought-after guest conductor and clinician. He has led state, regional, and national honor orchestras and has presented sessions at major professional gatherings, including The Midwest Clinic, ASTA, the Georgia Music Educators Association, and the Texas Music Educators Association. He also teaches AP Music Theory at Walton.

In addition to his teaching and conducting, Dr. Holbrook is an accomplished composer. His original works, including Someday, Never Summer Mountain, Acadian Solstice, and Bear on the Square, have been recognized as JW Pepper Editor’s Choice selections and are performed by ensembles nationwide. Notably, Someday has been featured by all-state orchestras and at state music educator conventions, reflecting his commitment to creating music that is both pedagogically meaningful and artistically engaging for developing orchestra students. Dr. Holbrook is looking forward to four new releases in 2026.

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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 #orchestracomposers #composerprofile

Episode 115 – Building Community & Legacy with Dr. Gail Barnes

In this inspiring episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, host Dr. Charles Laux sits down with Dr. Gail Barnes, Distinguished Professor Emerita of Music Education and former Director of the USC String Project. With a career spanning public school teaching, university leadership, groundbreaking research, and co-authorship of Measures of Success for String Orchestra, Dr. Barnes has shaped generations of string educators and students alike.

Listeners will hear the story behind the creation of the widely used Facebook Orchestra Teacher group (now over 11,000 members strong), insights into building sustainable string programs, and reflections on her career-long passion for expanding access to music education for underserved youth. Dr. Barnes also shares her continued work as a researcher, author, mentor, and guest conductor—proving that while she may be “retired,” her impact on the profession continues to grow.

Whether you’re a new teacher looking for practical wisdom, or a veteran educator seeking inspiration, this conversation is filled with community, legacy, and encouragement for orchestra educators everywhere.

— BIOGRPAHY —

Distinguished Professor Emerita, Dr. Barnes was a professor of Music Education and former Director of the USC String Project. She received her BM and MM from the University of Michigan and her PhD from the Ohio State University. Prior to being appointed to the University of South Carolina School of Music faculty, she was an orchestra teacher in the Norfolk Public Schools (Virginia). Dr. Barnes research interests include community and school orchestra programs and access to music education for under-served youth. She is a co-author of Measures of Success for String Orchestra (published by The FJH Music Company).  

https://www.sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/music/faculty-staff/Barnes.php

https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrchestraTeachers/

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

Episode 114 – The Orchestra Teacher Podcast featuring Marc Kaufman

In this episode, we welcome H. Marc Kaufman, orchestra director at Lovinggood Middle School in Cobb County, Georgia. After a several successful decades teaching band, Marc made the transition to strings. His previous collaborative work with full symphony orchestra and chorus concerts sparked his passion for orchestra, leading him to his current role.

Marc’s career spans nearly four decades and a wide variety of experiences: science teacher, textbook writer, content developer for Turner Networks, curriculum and technology coordinator for the Georgia Department of Education, band director, music and movement technician with marching ensembles, and now orchestra director. He shares how this unique path has shaped his teaching, his perspective on building successful programs, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Join us for this inspiring conversation with Marc Kaufman about career journeys, building community through music, and finding joy in every chapter of teaching.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Marc Kaufman is in his second year as the orchestra director at Lovinggood Middle School in Cobb County, Georgia. Prior to making the move to strings, he spent the previous ten years as the Director of Bands at Couch Middle School in Grayson, Georgia. In his tenure at CMS, Marc doubled the size of the program. His ensembles consistently earned superior ratings at GMEA performance evaluations, and were an invited ensemble at the Music For All Southeastern Regional Concert Festival at Georgia State University in 2024. In addition to his conducting responsibilities, Marc also arranged many pieces for the CMS Ram Jam, concert band classes, and most importantly, the full symphony orchestra with chorus concerts held every December. It was his experience with the collaborative December concerts that got him started on the road to being an orchestra director. 

In a career that has spanned nearly four decades, Marc has been a science teacher, textbook writer, content developer for Turner Networks, curriculum/technology coordinator for the Georgia Department of Education, a high school and middle school band director, a music and movement technician for high school bands, DCI and DCA Drum Corps, and is currently in his second year as an orchestra director. 

Marc holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Middle Grades Education from Kennesaw State University and a Master of Arts in Music Education Degree from Piedmont University. 

Marc and Jackie Kaufman live in Sugar Hill, Georgia with their beloved Australian Cattle Dog Maddie, and are close to their three children (all teachers!), two daughters-in law, two grandchildren, five granddogs and one grandcat. 

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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 #frombandtostrings #frombandtoorchestra 

Episode 113 – Building a Thriving Middle School Orchestra with Ashley Culley

In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Charles talks with Ashley Culley, director of orchestras at Dodgen Middle School in Cobb County, Georgia. Over her 25-year career — 19 of them at Dodgen — Ashley has grown her program from 190 to over 380 students while serving as a leader, performer, clinician, and adjudicator.

She shares strategies for program growth, student engagement, and community building, along with insights from her upcoming invitation to perform at The Midwest Clinic.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Ashley Culley is the director of orchestras at Dodgen Middle School in Cobb County, Georgia. She has been an orchestra director for 25 years with the last 19 years at Dodgen. While at Dodgen, the orchestra program has grown from 190 students to 380 students. She is a Cobb County Teacher Leader for middle school orchestras. Her prior teaching experiences include Kell High School in Cobb County, Georgia and Milton High School, Northwestern Middle School and several elementary schools in Fulton County, Georgia. 

Mrs.Culley earned a Bachelor of Music Education with Performance Certificate from the University of South Carolina. While at USC, she worked in the USC String Project. She earned a Master of Music in Cello Performance and a Master of Arts in String Pedagogy from the Ohio State University. Mrs.Culley is an active performer, clinician and adjudicator. As an adjudicator and clinician, she has worked with orchestras in Georgia, Ohio and South Carolina.

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

🎙 The Orchestra Teacher Podcast — Episode 112: Clay McKinney, author of TheCello.online and full-time middle school director, discusses some cello tip & tricks, his teaching, and more.

In Episode 112 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes the passionate and innovative Clay McKinney, director of orchestras at Parkway Central Middle School in Missouri. With over a decade of experience in the classroom, Clay shares insights into his teaching journey, his approach to engaging middle school students, and how he blends performance, pedagogy, and creativity in his work.

A cellist by training, Clay holds a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the University of Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. In 2023, he was honored as the Missouri American String Teachers Association Secondary Teacher of the Year — a testament to his dedication and impact as a music educator.

Beyond the classroom, Clay is the creator of The Cello Online YouTube channel, a valuable resource for cello players and teachers alike. With over 1 million views and nearly 10,000 subscribers, his content reaches musicians around the world, combining instructional videos with thoughtful and accessible cello guidance.

In this episode, Clay talks about his path into string education, his alternative route to certification, building a thriving middle school program, and how his digital content creation supports and extends his passion for teaching.

🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful and energizing conversation on musicianship, middle school magic, and making music accessible both in and beyond the classroom.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Mr. McKinney holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Cello Performance from the University of Alabama and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from University of MO St. Louis. He now serves as the director of orchestras at Parkway Central Middle School currently in his 11th year. In 2023 He was awarded the Missouri American String Teacher Secondary Teacher of the Year award for his work as a middle school orchestra director. Mr. McKinney also maintains a YouTube channel dedicated to cello www.youtube.com/@thecelloonline which has garnered over 1 million views and has a following of nearly 10,000.

https://www.thecello.online/

https://www.youtube.com/@thecelloonline

[email protected]

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Looking to plan a great orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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 #CelloPedagogy #thecello #celloteaching #alternativecertification

In Episode 111 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux welcomes the dynamic and inspiring Taniesha Pooser — assistant principal at the Gwinnett School for Math, Science, and Technology, founder of Recolor.Ed, and veteran orchestra educator. With over 15 years of classroom experience, multiple accolades (including 2022 Gwinnett County Middle School Teacher of the Year), and a deep commitment to student success, Taniesha shares her powerful journey from music educator to school leader.

In this episode, Taniesha reflects on her unique upbringing as a military child, her path from violinist to bassist, and how her mentors helped shape her purpose in music education. She discusses her transition into administration, driven by her desire to support teachers and students on a broader level — and candidly addresses the challenges of shifting roles while staying true to her musical roots.

Listeners will also learn about her initiative, RecolorEd.org, which empowers educators to build inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments. Taniesha shares her experiences with schedule advocacy for the arts, the importance of visibility in leadership, and her continued involvement in music through adjudication and youth orchestra direction.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and staying connected to the heart of music education — even from the front office.

🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Taniesha’s unwavering dedication to education, equity, and the arts.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Taniesha M. Pooser is a dedicated music educator, conductor, and administrator with over sixteen years of experience in music education, including more than a decade in public school orchestra instruction. She has served as an orchestra director and county lead orchestra teacher in Gwinnett County Public Schools, Georgia, where her exceptional work was recognized in 2022 when she was named the GCPS Middle School Teacher of the Year.

A passionate advocate for equity and excellence in the arts, Mrs. Pooser served as a member at large with the American String Teachers Association (ASTA). She also served as the chair for the inaugural Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access committee. In March 2023, Mrs. Pooser was honored with ASTA’s prestigious Presidential Award for Outstanding Service, recognizing her exemplary commitment to the organization and the broader music education community.

Now serving as an assistant principal, Mrs. Pooser continues to influence the field of music education through her leadership. She remains active as a guest clinician, conductor, presenter, and adjudicator at regional and state orchestral events. Additionally, she serves as the conductor of the Heart Youth Orchestra in Athens, Georgia, where she continues to inspire the next generation of young musicians.

https://www.recolored.org/

http://linkedin.com/in/taniesha-pooser-recolored

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

Resources and more information at ⁠www.orchestrateacher.net⁠

#StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter #ViolinPedagogy #violinteaching #violateaching #EducationalLeadership #RecolorEd #EquityInEducation #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #ArtsAdvocacy #MusicAdministrator #YouthOrchestra #WomenInLeadership #DiversityInEducation #TeacherLeader #FineArtsEducation #InspiringEducators #PBIS #MentorshipMatters #FromTeacherToAdministrator

🎙 The Orchestra Teacher Podcast — Episode 110: Sadie Uhing – From Trumpet to Strings: A Young Educator’s Journey

In Episode 110 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Dr. Charles Laux sits down with Sadie Uhing, a rising star in the world of string education. Currently in her second year of teaching, Sadie shares her inspiring and unconventional path from growing up as a trumpet player and band student to becoming a dedicated orchestra director.

Sadie opens up about her transition into the string world, the challenges and triumphs of her first year in the classroom, and the professional development and mindset shifts that helped her succeed. Now leading over 150 students across multiple ensembles—including three high school ensembles and two 8th grade orchestras—Sadie brings energy, versatility, and a love for diverse musical styles to her teaching.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney with dual degrees in Music Education and Music Performance, Sadie has performed with groups such as the Nebraska Brass Band, Kearney Symphony Orchestra, and the Flatwater Jazz Orchestra. She also serves as Secretary for the Nebraska String Teachers Association and is active in NAfME, NMEA, and ASTA.

Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned veteran, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical insights, and the kind of enthusiasm that reminds us why we teach music.

🎧 Tune in to hear how one band kid found her calling in strings and is already making a meaningful impact in the classroom and beyond.

— BIOGRAPHY —

Sadie Uhing serves as the Orchestra Director at Kearney High School and is the 8th grade Orchestra Teacher for Kearney Public Schools. She is in her second year of teaching and directs 150+ students in ensembles such as Symphonic Orchestra, Camerata, Freshman Concert Orchestra, and the 8th Grade Orchestra classes at Horizon and Sunrise Middle Schools. She is a recent graduate from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and holds Bachelor degrees in Music Education and Music Performance. From jazz to classical, she has been trained in many musical styles and loves interpreting and performing diverse repertoire. She also enjoys teaching private lessons and researching music methodologies. Sadie has performed in a variety of ensembles such as the Nebraska Brass Band, Kearney Symphony Orchestra, and the Flatwater Jazz Orchestra. She is also a member of the National Association for Music Education and the Nebraska Music Education Association. She currently serves as Secretary for the Nebraska String Teachers Association, and participates in the American String Teachers Association. 

— REFERRAL LINKS —

Ready to shake up your next orchestra trip? Kaleidoscope Adventures has been planning performance travel beyond expectations for more than 30 years. 

⁠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.

⁠https://tinyurl.com/TheOrchestraTeacherYNAB⁠

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

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