NCMEA Podcast

Episode Description – NCMEA Podcast with Andrew BeachIn this episode of the North Carolina Music Educators Association Podcast, host Howie Ledford sits down with Andrew Beach, Orchestra, Modern Band, and Piano teacher at Southwest Guilford High School and co-chair of the NCMEA Popular Music Committee.Andrew shares insights into the growing world of popular music education and the work of the NCMEA Popular Music Committee in supporting teachers across North Carolina. The conversation explores what a popular music program can look like in today’s classrooms, how educators can begin building programs at their own schools, and the importance of creativity, accessibility, and culturally responsive teaching in music education.Listeners will also learn about several exciting initiatives hosted by the committee, including SoundForge, the Singer-Songwriter and Music Producer Showcase, and professional development opportunities designed to help teachers bring modern band, songwriting, and music production into their curricula.Andrew also shares his own journey into popular music education, discusses the power of community among music educators, and describes one of his favorite classroom activities—“Terrible Solos,” a creative exercise designed to break down the fear of improvisation and encourage students to embrace musical risk-taking.Whether you’re a band, orchestra, chorus, or music technology teacher, this episode highlights ways that popular music education can expand opportunities for students and connect classrooms to the music students are already passionate about.

🎙️ Podcast 32 — A Conversation with NCMEA President Carolina Perez GuerreroIn this inspiring episode of the NCMEA Podcast, host Howie Ledford sits down with the newly elected NCMEA President, Carolina Perez Guerrero — a dynamic educator, conductor, performer, and leader whose journey spans continents, classrooms, and concert halls.Carolina shares her story, beginning with a childhood across Miami, Minneapolis, Tampa, and Chile before landing in North Carolina, where her love of music education took root. Today, she serves as Instructor of Music at NCSSM–Durham, directing multiple ensembles and shaping young musicians through vibrant, forward-thinking instruction.Together, Howie and Carolina dive into:Her personal and musical journey from band rooms to Duke University to NCSSMWhy she pursued the NCMEA presidency — and the organization’s deep impact on her lifeHer vision for NCMEA’s future, including:Support for small, urban, and geographically isolated music programsStrengthening the statewide mentoring programExpanding modern music offerings like digital production, popular music, and technologyIncreasing access, advocacy, and inclusive music practicesLeadership philosophy: collaboration, empowerment, and building community across all music disciplinesRepresentation and service: what it means to lead as a Latina music educatorFilled with authenticity, humor, and a deep passion for music education, this episode highlights Carolina’s heart for teachers, students, and the future of NCMEA. Whether you’re a band director, choral educator, orchestra teacher, or music production specialist, this conversation will inspire and energize you for the work ahead.

Episode Title: Meet the Candidates: A Conversation with Demeka Kimpson and Ryan EllefsenIn this special election edition of the NCMEA Podcast, host Howell “Howie” Ledford sits down with Demeka Kimpson and Ryan Ellefsen, the candidates running for President-Elect of the North Carolina Music Educators Association.Join us for an engaging, honest, and inspiring conversation as both candidates share who they are, what drives them, and their visions for the future of NCMEA. You’ll hear their thoughts on leadership, collaboration across sections, and the role of music education in a changing world.And don’t miss the fun surprise question at the end — one that gives a glimpse of the personality behind the podium!Whether you’re a long-time NCMEA member or new to the organization, this episode offers a front-row seat to the ideas and energy shaping the next generation of music-education leadership in North Carolina.🎧 Listen now — get to know the people ready to lead our state’s music education community forward!

In this episode, we have our final installment about the upcoming changes to the educational standards that the state has passed. You will want to go to the following website: ⁠http://go.ncdpi.gov/AE-Hub⁠. This is where you will find a wealth of information about the upcoming switch, webinars, information for principals, and the like. We both hope this podcast episode will make your transition easier.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christen Blanton, director of the Old-Time Ensemble at UNC-Greensboro and Orchestra Director at Lincoln Academy in Guilford County.We explore the rich history of Old-Time music, its similarities and differences with Bluegrass, and the cultural hotspots that keep this tradition alive in North Carolina. Dr. Blanton shares how Old-Time music is taught and learned, and how its community-based, aural tradition can be powerfully integrated into modern classrooms.We also dive into the cultural significance of Old-Time music in our state, and how embracing this tradition can connect students to history, identity, and one another.This is one of my favorite interviews in the history of this podcast — I guarantee you’ll learn something new and walk away inspired.

In this episode, we talk about the upcoming changes to the educational standards that the state has passed. You will want to go to the following website: http://go.ncdpi.gov/AE-Hub. This is where you will find a wealth of information about the upcoming switch, webinars, information for principals, and the like. We both hope this podcast episode will make your transition easier.

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Robert Irving III - legendary pianist, composer, and Miles Davis' musical director from 1980-1989. We discuss his history and how he met and worked with Miles Davis. Mr. Irving was key to Miles Davis' comeback album "The Man with the Horn." We also discuss his future plans with Miles Davis' 100th birthday next year.

In this podcast, I sit down with Mr. James Daugherty. James is the Past President of the Southern Division, a Past President of NCMEA, and is currently the Co-Chair of the Advocacy Committee. James recently retired from Davidson County after a 30-year career in education. One of James' signatures in his leadership is advocacy. In this episode, we look at how we advocate. James gives us perspectives on what we do well and how we can improve as educators. You will want to hear his wisdom in this area, I guarantee.

In this episode, Brandon Roeder and I discuss the new standards required next year in detail. We cover what they are and how they relate to our current standards. If you have questions about the new standards, this is a podcast you do not want to miss.

Hello, and welcome to another school year. In this episode, Dr. Jose Rivera from UNCP and I discuss Latin American Music Education in the state of North Carolina. This topic should be of interest because the Latin American population is growing in our state. Major points of discussion include population growth, student support, ensembles, Latin music resources, and much more. I hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, I have a fascinating conversation with Mr. Avery Payne, the Band Director at Millbrook High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. Notably, under his leadership, the Millbrook HS Wind Ensemble performed at the NCMEA Conference in 2022. Moreover, this year, they graced the stage at the National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. Specifically tailored for aspiring and early-career educators, this episode delves into the intricacies of long-term planning necessary to consistently move a program's performance to a higher level. Avery shares invaluable insights and practical advice for educators embarking on their journey, especially those stepping into their first teaching roles.

Absolutely! Here's a more dialed-back version: In this engaging episode of the podcast, join me as I sit down with Mr. Dustin Ragland, the Education Development Manager for Ableton Live in the Americas. Together, we explore the fascinating ways Live can enhance the classroom experience and unlock its full potential. From practical tips on integrating field recordings to leveraging various Ableton products, we delve into insightful discussions sure to inspire educators. Plus, a friendly reminder: NCMEA maintains neutrality, welcoming all software systems for discussion. If any other DAW would like to have a discussion, please feel free to contact howie.ledford@gmail.com so we can talk.

In this captivating podcast episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tonya Allison and Lindsey Williams, who serve as our esteemed Co-Chairs for Music In Our Schools Month. Together, we delve into the history of this significant month, exploring its origins and evolution. Furthermore, we delve into the invaluable advocacy work undertaken by NCMEA at the state level, shedding light on the crucial role of music education in our communities. Throughout our conversation, we ponder various ways to harness the spirit of Music In Our Schools Month within our local community, emphasizing the transformative power of music education. From sharing inspiring projects to exchanging insightful perspectives, our discussion covers a diverse range of topics, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the significance of this month-long celebration.

In our 20th episode, join me for an enlightening conversation with the newly elected President of the NCMEA, Mrs. Catherine Butler. Together, we look into Mrs. Butler's journey as both and individual and a dedicated educator, exploring her experiences as a musician and teacher. We also discuss her vision for the future of the NCMEA and the strategies she plans to implement to achieve them.

On this episode of the NCMEA Podcast, I have a conversation with Mrs. D’Walla Burke, the Director of Choral Activities at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. In this episode, our focus is on Historically Black colleges and universities, exploring the rich and diverse culture they embody, with a particular emphasis on the unique culture at WSSU. As a natural extension of our discussion, Professor Burke and I delve into the topics of culturally responsive teaching and asset-based learning.

Warning: If you are looking for some joy and some education this podcast is for you. My guest is Ms. Jazzmone Sutton. She is currently the State Advocacy Engagement Manager for NAfME. we look at the topic of advocacy from multiple angles. We examine the difference between policy and advocacy. We also look at how you can deal with your community all the way from your parents to your principal. She goes over strategies for getting what you need for your classroom in a manner that is truly inspiring. We hope you enjoy.

In this episode, Dr. Carol Earnhardt and I discuss the topics of mentoring and musical literacy. We discuss how a first-fifth year teacher can get a mentor, and how one can become a mentor. We look at how this program is making a difference in music education. In the "Favorite Lesson Plan section" we look at why musical literacy is on of her favorite topics in music education. Take a listen. We hope you will enjoy.

In this podcast, I talk with Dr. Wes Parker at NCSU. Dr. Parker is the Director of Jazz Studies at NCSU and led the Jazz Orchestra to a performance at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Show in Chicago. The Jazz Orchestra is only the fourth band from NC to ever play that conference, and the only collegiate ensemble to play there. In this heart warming interview, we talk about music at a school without a music major. We also talk about he built the jazz program and resources for jazz. I hope you enjoy.

In this episode of the NCMEA Podcast, I talk to Mr. Donny Walter. Mr. Walter is the Orchestra Director at Northwest Guilford Middle and High School. This interview covers a host topics, but our main focus was to talk about how get better more productive rehearsals. This podcast will give you good ideas that you can implement in your rehearsals.

This is a fascinating episode and somewhat controversial. This episode is about stand heights. Band directors have told students to raise their stand to where they can see the conductor. Dave explores what a lowering stand height can do for your program. We explore how low stand heights change the look and sound of the instrument and the ensemble. This brings to light that some teachers do not look at the overall presentation of their ensembles. On a personal note, presentation is a topic I am exploring with my own students. Also, we take a look at the pedagogical benefits of a lower stand height for younger students. After this podcast you might never look at this topic the same way again.