Pass the Baton: Empowering Students in Music Education, a Podcast for Music Teachers

In Episode 67, the conversation centers on transformative approaches to student assessments. Angela Harman shares her journey from traditional to student-driven assessments, which involve students in both self-assessment and peer feedback processes. This method not only makes assessments more meaningful and manageable but also fosters a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to be active participants in their own learning journey. The interview emphasizes practical strategies that music teachers can apply to shift the focus from mere grading to genuine student growth and learning progress. Angela’s approach reflects a significant shift in educational practices, promoting student autonomy and a collaborative classroom atmosphere. These methods are not just about easing the teacher's burden but are crucial in helping students develop independence and critical skills necessary for their musical and personal development. The interview is rich with insights and real-life applications that are relevant to music educators looking to enhance their teaching methods and student engagement. Connect with Angela and learn more: Angela’s website: http://www.orchestraclassroom.com Angela’s blog: http://orchestrateacher.blogspot.com Instagram: @orchestra.teacher.life Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: ⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

In Episode 58, Kathryn and Theresa interview Jamie Widener, a music educator passionate about incorporating Genius Hour in her elementary music classes. The episode focuses on Jamie's approach to engaging students by allowing them to pursue music-related passion projects, inspired by Google's strategy of allowing employees to dedicate 20% of their work time to personal projects. Jamie discusses the practical aspects of implementing Genius Hour in the music classroom, including project selection, time management, and fostering creativity and autonomy among students. This method has been successful in engaging students by allowing them to explore topics they are passionate about, leading to diverse projects like instrument building and experimenting with different musical genres. The episode emphasizes the importance of student choice and empowerment in education, highlighting the benefits of Genius Hour in developing not only musical skills but also soft skills like collaboration, research, and presentation. Connect with Jamie: Instagram: @Caffeinated.J Blog: https://caffeinatedj.com/ Genius Hour: https://caffeinatedj.com/genius-hour-in-elementary-music/ Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

This week, Kathryn and Theresa spoke with Jared Brockmeyer about how he has incorporated game-based practices in his middle school band classes! Jared currently teaches 6th-8th grade band in Missouri. He also has experience teaching high school band and worked with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps. As a game-lover, Jared has found that there are several elements in video games that not only engage students but also give them agency, and by incorporating those elements in the classroom, he has transformed the learning experience. Connect with Jared and learn more about his work: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086107376866  Email: beyondgamification@gmail.com  Get a free preview of Pass the Baton here: https://www.daveburgessconsulting.com/books/pass-the-baton/ Support Pass the Baton - Resources, Books, Coaching, and more! ➡ ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠ For more info: https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Free Download - Exit Tickets for Self-Reflection: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 81, Kathryn and Theresa reflect on the power of professional collaboration for music educators. Drawing from their own experiences, they discuss how connecting with fellow educators—whether across the country or in the same district—can transform teaching practices, reduce isolation, and foster creativity. They share anecdotes of innovative classroom projects, such as their cross-state recorder pen pals and collaborative feedback sessions using Flipgrid, which helped students develop skills in constructive critique and purposeful music-making. These experiences underscore how collaboration not only enhances teaching but also models lifelong learning and teamwork for students. Kathryn and Theresa also highlight the importance of finding support networks to combat the isolation many music teachers face. They suggest starting with conferences, social media, or even colleagues outside of music education to brainstorm ideas or share lessons. For those looking for a structured way to connect, they recommend the Pass the Baton Coffee Club, which provides opportunities for group planning and idea-sharing. Take the leap into collaboration, whether by exchanging lessons or teaming up for larger projects, and share your experiences to inspire others in the music education community. Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership  Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9 Episode 56 - Straight Talk on Student Centered Music Classes, with Tom Chester and Justin Johnson Episode 41 - Empower Students to Practice with Purpose, with Katie LaBrie and Tracy Magwire Episode 75 - From Student to Artist: The TAB Approach in General Music, with Emily Meyerson Episode 33 - Fostering Independent Musicians, with Amy Rever Oberle and Lauren Staniszewski

In episode 80, we dive into the transformative world of creative music education with Steve Giddings, an innovative music educator and advocate for hands-on, student-driven learning. Steve shares his journey from traditional conservatory training to championing a more dynamic and accessible approach to teaching music. Through his experiences, Steve has developed techniques that encourage students to explore music through improvisation, creativity, and collaboration. Whether teaching rock bands, flipping Bloom's Taxonomy, or introducing new rhythms, Steve emphasizes making music education more about creating and less about replicating. Join us as we explore Steve's innovative classroom practices, from "moshing" warm-ups to using tools like Groove Pizza and GarageBand to compose original works. Steve also discusses the critical role of fostering a safe space for students to make mistakes, take risks, and discover their unique musical voices. This episode is packed with practical advice for educators looking to bring creativity into their classrooms and inspire students to see themselves as lifelong musicians. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of music education’s leading voices! Website: https://www.stevesmusicroom.com Rock Coach: https://amzn.to/4i9Ph2i Creative Musicking: https://amzn.to/3Zk7mCm Technology for Unleashing Creativity: https://amzn.to/3B8oNgV Mikey’s Place: https://amzn.to/3ZbwI56 Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 79, we welcome Jessie Peterson, a dedicated middle school band director and a passionate advocate for fostering intrinsic motivation in music education. Drawing from her doctoral studies at Clemson University and her extensive teaching experience, Jessie delves into the transformative power of Self-Determination Theory in the classroom. She shares how the principles of autonomy, competence, and relatedness have helped her create an inclusive and empowering environment where students thrive. Whether it’s encouraging students to choose their own instruments or setting collaborative goals for performances, Jessie demonstrates how these strategies cultivate a love for music that lasts a lifetime. Tune in as Jessie shares practical insights, from utilizing sticker-based systems for mastery learning to fostering peer mentorship among students. Her creative approaches have not only expanded her band program dramatically but have also reinforced the value of music as a safe space for self-expression and growth. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to teaching, this episode offers valuable takeaways to implement in your own practice. Don’t miss Jessie’s heartfelt stories and actionable tips for building a connected and motivated musical community. Connect with Jessie and learn more: Email - petersonjessielynn@gmail.com Chris Ferguson website - https://www.cfergusonmusic.com/ Dan Pink - Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us - https://amzn.to/4ezsYQs Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In Episode 78, Theresa and Kathryn welcome Taylor Morris and Sara Duce, co-founders of the Gilbert Town Fiddlers. Taylor and Sara discuss their journey in music education and share how they have built an extracurricular program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and student ownership in music. Their organization, based in Gilbert, Arizona, teaches middle and high school students how to play and arrange music by ear, improvise, and work in ensemble settings. They emphasize giving students autonomy in music-making, allowing them to learn arrangement skills and make creative decisions in a democratic, collaborative environment. Taylor and Sara also explain how their experiences in music education have influenced their approaches as private teachers and orchestra directors. They discuss the importance of providing students with choices, encouraging self-reflection, and helping them build the confidence to express ideas. Both educators highlight the unique skills students develop through ensemble-led arrangements and how the experience allows students to connect deeply with their music. Taylor and Sara’s insights make this episode a valuable listen for educators interested in incorporating more student-led, creative processes into their classrooms. Connect with Taylor and Sara: Website: https://www.gilberttownfiddlers.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilberttownfiddlers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gilberttownfiddlers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylormorrismusic/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraduceviola/ Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 77, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Grammy Music Educator of the Year, Stephen Cox, as he dives into his unique approach to music education and his latest venture with the Willis Wonderland Foundation. Stephen shares insights from his 14-year teaching career in Texas, where he developed a progressive, student-centered approach to band programs, prioritizing student autonomy, joy, and intrinsic motivation. He also reflects on his journey toward empowering students to lead and make decisions, which transformed his music programs and resulted in both personal and collective growth for his students. Now, as part of the Willis Wonderland Foundation, Stephen is developing free songwriting resources to further his mission of making music education more accessible and engaging. The foundation, established to honor the legacy of renowned songwriter Allee Willis, provides teachers with tools to inspire students through songwriting and creative expression. Tune in to hear Stephen's inspiring thoughts on how progressive music education and creative freedom can transform not only classrooms but the lives of young musicians. Connect with Stephen and learn more about his work: Website: https://stephentcox.com/ The Willis Wonderland Foundation: https://williswonderland.org/ Learn more about Pass the Baton Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 76, Theresa and Kathryn welcome Gillian Desmarais Keller, an award-winning music educator specializing in K-12 music technology. Gillian shares her journey from teaching elementary music to establishing a cutting-edge music technology program in Maplewood Public Schools. She highlights the importance of integrating technology into traditional music education, offering students new opportunities for creativity through recording, lyric writing, and music production. Gillian also discusses how technology can enhance the learning experience by blending traditional music theory with modern tools like digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Soundtrap and Ableton. The conversation emphasizes the potential of music technology to engage a wider range of students, including those who may not be interested in traditional music programs. Gillian shares practical tips for teachers to start incorporating technology into their classrooms, advocating for the use of web applications like Chrome Music Lab and Groove Pizza as entry points. Whether you're a band director, choir teacher, or general music instructor, this episode provides valuable insights on how to make music education more accessible and relevant to all students. Connect with Gillian: Website: http://www.soundteched.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gillian.desmarais LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilliandesmarais/ Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 75, Theresa and Kathryn are joined by Emily Meyerson, a seasoned music educator, to discuss her unique approach to teaching music through the TAB (Teaching for Artistic Behavior) pedagogy. Emily shares her experiences transitioning from a traditional teaching model to one that empowers students to behave and think like musicians. She emphasizes the importance of giving students creative control in the music classroom, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. From integrating technology, like electronic instruments and recording studios, to fostering a collaborative environment, Emily highlights how this innovative method nurtures independent thinkers and lifelong musicians. You will also hear Emily's insights on balancing student-led projects with structured lessons and how she adapted TAB for various grade levels. She discusses the importance of classroom management, collaboration with other educators, and the profound impact of giving students creative freedom. This episode offers practical tips for educators interested in empowering their students while maintaining classroom structure. Connect with Emily and learn more: NAfME Presentation: https://vimeo.com/513015857 Yamaha Article: https://hub.yamaha.com/music-educators/40-under-40/2023/meyerson-emily/ Email: emeyerson@nbls.org X: @MsMeyerson Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In Episode 74, Kathryn and Theresa talk to Berry McWhorter about how his deep dive into Japanese music education transformed his approach to teaching. After discovering the impressive performance of Japanese middle school bands during his studies, Berry embarked on a journey to understand the unique student-led structure of Japanese music programs. He found that these programs place significant responsibility on students to lead rehearsals, manage performances, and even handle administrative tasks, all with minimal direct supervision from teachers. Inspired by this model, Berry applied similar strategies in his own high school band teaching. He encouraged student leadership by implementing student-led sectionals and allowing students to choose and conduct their concert pieces. This shift toward student ownership, influenced by the Japanese approach, created a more engaged and motivated classroom environment. Berry emphasizes that this method not only improves students’ musical abilities but also instills valuable life skills such as independence, responsibility, and collaboration.  Connect with Berry and learn more: Instagram: @berry_mcwhorter_drums Bravo Music: https://bravomusic-inc.com/ Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In episode 73, Kathryn and Theresa engage in a compelling conversation with Ally McGowan, a dedicated middle school orchestra teacher from Connecticut. Ally shares her journey of transitioning from traditional methods of student engagement to a more empowering approach in her classroom. She discusses how small, intentional changes in her teaching methods have transformed her students' learning experiences, moving them from passive participation to active ownership of their musical growth. Ally emphasizes the importance of listening to her students and allowing them to take part in decisions about their learning, such as choosing the flow of their lessons and engaging in improvisational activities. The discussion also highlights the value of collaboration among educators, with Ally describing her experiences working alongside other music teachers to enhance the learning environment. She reflects on the benefits of having students provide peer feedback, which not only deepens their understanding but also fosters a supportive classroom community. By focusing on student empowerment and incorporating innovative teaching techniques, Ally has successfully created a classroom atmosphere where students are excited to learn and explore music in new and meaningful ways. Connect with Ally and learn more: email - amcgowan @ fairfieldps.org Social Media - @allyytaylor ASTA - https://www.astastrings.org/  ASTA Connecticut - https://www.ctastastrings.org Learn more about Pass the Baton Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In this episode of the Pass the Baton podcast, hosts Kathryn Finch and Theresa Hoover kick off the fourth season by discussing how to create an empowering classroom environment as the new school year begins. They emphasize the importance of setting the tone early, fostering an inclusive and positive atmosphere where students feel confident and motivated. The conversation delves into practical strategies for building student engagement, focusing on providing opportunities for students to take ownership of their learning, which in turn enhances their confidence and love for music. The episode also highlights the significance of student voice and choice in the classroom. Kathryn and Theresa explore how giving students a say in their learning process, from the music they play to the way the classroom is organized, can lead to a more dynamic and collaborative environment. They offer actionable tips on how to integrate student feedback, creativity, and collaboration into daily lessons, ensuring that students feel seen, heard, and empowered to succeed throughout the school year. Kickstart your school year with our Pass the Baton BINGO board. Download it now and watch your students thrive! ➡ https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l0d3p7 Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Coffee Club: https://buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton/membership Support Pass the Baton: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Get it for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9

In Episode 71, Kathryn and Theresa celebrate the conclusion of Season 3, reflecting on the 20 episodes produced and the incredible people they met within the field of music education. Now three years old, the book “Pass the Baton” has had an incredible impact, as did the successful graduate course run through VanderCook College of Music this spring. With an emphasis on the importance of student-centered teaching and collaborative learning, Theresa and Kathryn share personal highlights and lessons learned from their favorite episodes. Heading into summer, they discuss their plans for relaxation, family time, and continued professional development. Hint - stay tuned this summer for a relaunch of the Coffee Club and don’t forget to check out the free resources available on the website! Learn more: Website - www.passthebatonbook.com Resources - www.passthebatonbook.com/resources Book - https://www.amazon.com/Pass-Baton-Empowering-Music-Students/dp/1951600541/ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠⁠

In Episode 70, Kathryn and Theresa talk to Dr. Sarah Gulish, a former high school music teacher turned digital publisher. Sarah shares her journey from classroom teaching to founding a music education company, F-flat Books. She highlights the release of her new children's book, "Rosie Rocks," which tells the story of a shy girl finding her voice through playing the electric guitar. The book emphasizes themes of student voice, gender representation in music, and the importance of teachers supporting and listening to their students' interests and aspirations in music education. Listeners will gain insights into Sarah's innovative approach to music education, including her advocacy for broadening the scope of music programs to include diverse instruments and styles. She underscores the value of fostering a creative and inclusive environment where all students can explore their musical potential. The episode provides practical advice for educators on how to encourage student participation and innovation in the music classroom. Connect with Sarah and learn more: Instagram - @sarahgulishmusic Instagram - @fflatbooks Website - https://fflat-books.com/ Book - https://fflat-books.com/product/rosie-rocks-hardback-book/ Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

Episode 69 of the podcast, Theresa and Kathryn address common concerns from music teachers about transitioning to more student-empowered classrooms. The episode focuses on how teachers can relinquish control while effectively meeting educational standards and ensuring administrative approval. The hosts emphasize the importance of incorporating student choices and fostering independence, while ensuring the curriculum aligns with the National Core Arts Standards which advocate for student engagement in music education. Practical advice is offered on taking small steps towards empowering students, which not only aids in meeting standards but also enhances students' overall musical and educational experience. The episode serves as an encouragement for music educators to embrace student-centered teaching methods while maintaining high educational and performance standards. Download the Common Concerns Guide here: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/m1c9m7 Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

In Episode 68 of the podcast, guest Yeshima shares their extensive background and current projects in music education, highlighting their passion for incorporating project-based learning (PBL) into music classrooms. Yeshima details their journey from teaching high school band and percussion in Texas to embracing elementary general music after being inspired by a music educators conference. Now pursuing a PhD, they reflect on their experience implementing PBL, emphasizing its potential to foster student-driven learning through authentic, real-world challenges. This approach not only enhances student engagement but also integrates community involvement, culminating in student-created projects that address community needs. Yeshima also discusses their entrepreneurial venture, Drum Smart LLC, where they teach group drumming, further demonstrating the power of music education to impact individuals and communities alike. Yeshima's story serves as an inspiring example of how educators can deeply engage students in learning through music, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and community connection. Their approach illustrates the transformative potential of project-based learning in developing students' skills, confidence, and community awareness, making music education a powerful conduit for holistic development and social impact. Connect with Yeshima and learn more about their work: Website - www.drumsmartllc.com  Social Media - @drumsmartllc Project Based Learning: Creating Music That Impacts the World - https://fflat-books.com/product/project-based-learning/ Bloom Music Learning YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@bloommusiclearning1386 Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: ⁠⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

In Episode 66, Kathryn and Theresa continue their discussion with Alex Adams about the transformative role of songwriting in music education. Building on the foundation laid in Episode 65, Alex offers a deeper exploration into how songwriting can be a powerful medium for students to connect their personal experiences with the academic study of music. He emphasizes the importance of creating a music education environment that resonates with the cultural and individual identities of students, making learning both relevant and impactful. Throughout the interview, Alex not only shares his experiences and insights but also provides valuable resources and teaching strategies that educators can utilize to integrate songwriting into their curriculum. These resources aim to empower teachers to facilitate a more inclusive and expressive classroom, where students can harness their creativity to construct meaningful musical expressions. Alex’s narrative encapsulates a comprehensive view of music education, advocating for an approach that nurtures creativity, personal expression, and cultural inclusivity through the art of songwriting. Connect with Alex and learn more: website - http://mralexadams.com resources: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SRx6UP4_Lpb-iB_M3SBi5Cwdxb0CadQA?usp=drive_link Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: ⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

In Episode 65, Kathryn and Theresa dive into the first part of an enlightening interview with Alex Adams, a seasoned music teacher with 15 years of experience in both private studio and public school teaching. Alex shares his unique journey from teaching in Maine to becoming a teaching artist with the Documentary Songwriters organization, and his current role as a graduate student at Arizona State University. He discusses the significance of integrating songwriting into music education, emphasizing the empowerment it brings to students by allowing them to express their personal experiences and imaginations through music. Alex highlights the importance of seeing oneself in the music curriculum, the role of creative freedom in songwriting, and the impact of music on building community and cultural understanding. He also addresses common misconceptions about songwriting and the importance of setting appropriate goals and expectations for students' creative outputs. Stay tuned for the second part of this insightful interview, where we'll continue exploring the transformative power of songwriting in education. Connect with Alex and learn more about his work: Website: http://mralexadams.com Songwriting Resources: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SRx6UP4_Lpb-iB_M3SBi5Cwdxb0CadQA?usp=drive_link Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website: www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9⁠

In Episode 64, Kathryn and Theresa delve into the common pitfalls educators face in music education, emphasizing the importance of student ownership and engagement. The discussion navigates through the essential strategies for avoiding four key mistakes that can stifle student creativity and initiative. From the nuances of genuinely listening to student voices to the intricate balance of guiding creative activities, this episode serves as a beacon for educators striving to foster a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment. The insights shared are not only thought-provoking but also practical, offering listeners a roadmap to empower their students and transform the classroom into a hub of innovation and self-expression. Tune in to unravel the secrets to unlocking your students' potential and igniting their passion for music education.  Other interviews mentioned in this episode:  Episode 53, with Shane Colquhoun  Episode 3, with Laura Johnson Episode 13, with Sonya Knussen  Episode 14, with Robby Burns Episode 27, with Scott Edgar Learn more about Pass the Baton: Pass the Baton website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.passthebatonbook.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Pass the Baton: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/passthebaton⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection! Download for free now: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/f8l7g9