The Orchestra Teacher Podcast: Recent Episodes
Charles Laux
A podcast designed for string and orchestra educators to learn from some of the best in the profession. Topics include string pedagogy, classroom management, program administration, assessment, current trends, and more. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
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:
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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
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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
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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
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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
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🎙 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
clay@thecello.online
— 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
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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
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🎙 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!
https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi
Resources and more information at www.orchestrateacher.net
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frombandtoorchestra #risingstar
Episode 109 – Frank Lestina: Viola App, Repertoire Adaptation, and Rehearsal InsightsIn this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we sit down with veteran educator and conductor Frank Lestina, who shares a wide range of insights from his rich career in music education. Topics include the innovative “Vln2Vla” viola learning app, which helps violinists transition to viola, and adapting repertoire through platforms like ArrangeMe to meet students where they are. Frank discusses his Mahler 3 arrangement, his first published work, and the process behind creating meaningful educational repertoire.We also dive into rehearsal priorities, with a focus on rhythm, pulse, and intonation, and how these foundations support musical growth. Frank shares his experiences leading the Midwest Clinic’s New Music Reading Sessions, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at this influential event. Finally, we explore the impact of international student travel, including performance tours to Europe and beyond.This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiration, and stories from the podium—don’t miss it!— BIOGRAPHY —Frank Lestina received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Roosevelt University and his Master’s Degree in Administration from the University of Illinois. Mr. Lestina started his teaching career in Danville, Illinois where he taught orchestra at Southview Middle School and Danville High School. In 1986, Mr. Lestina accepted the Orchestra Director position at Libertyville High School, Libertyville, Illinois. The Symphony Orchestra was invited to perform at the Midwest Clinic in 1991 and again in 1996. In addition, the LHS Orchestras traveled extensively, including three tours to Europe. In the fall of 2000, Mr. Lestina accepted the position of Fine Arts Supervisor and Orchestra Director at the new school in District 128, Vernon Hills High School, where the string enrollment eventually grew to 150 students in three orchestras. Mr. Lestina retired from Vernon Hills High School in June of 2013 and currently serves as adjunct faculty in Music Education at DePaul University and VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. In addition, Mr. Lestina currently serves on the Advisory Board of The Midwest Clinic and moderates the New Music Reading Session for Orchestra. Mr. Lestina is very active as a guest conductor, clinician and adjudicator and has served as guest conductor for many of the ILMEA District Orchestras at both the Middle School and High School levels. Mr. Lestina conducted the ILMEA All-State Orchestra for the 2014 Conference in Peoria, Illinois. In May of 2018, Mr. Lestina was awarded an honorary Doctorate from VanderCook College of Music for his contributions to music education.Learn more about Frank, the Vln2Vla app, and more at https://franklestina.com/— 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/3RkfRLkDo 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/TheOrchestraTeacherYNABDo 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/r22irzcuy7jshiResources 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 #ViolinPedagogy #violinteaching #violateaching
Welcome to a special episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, where string educators share their creative ideas, tips, and teaching tools with listeners. Episode 108 kicks off this exciting new series with a contribution from David Cho, an elementary string specialist from Prince William County, Virginia. David introduces his innovative “bow tapes” concept—using standard fingerboard tape on the bow to guide young students toward a correct and consistent bow hold.In the second half of the episode, host Charles Laux is joined by Harrison Cook for a focused discussion on upper string pedagogy, where they diagnose common challenges in violin and viola technique and offer practical solutions for teachers.This episode is packed with valuable insights you can bring directly into your classroom. Don’t miss it!-- BIOGRAPHY -- David Cho is in his third year teaching fifth grade strings in Prince William County Schools in Northern Virginia. he has previously touched strings in the Catholic schools, ranging from elementary to high school. His background is professional performance both as a symphony, musician, chamber, musician, and Concerto soloist with orchestras. Some of his professional highlights include 12 seasons as Assistant Principal Cellist in the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, performances with Washington National Opera and Kennedy Center ballet, performances at Wolf trap in the National Gallery Orchestra.— 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/3RkfRLkDo 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/TheOrchestraTeacherYNABDo 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/r22irzcuy7jshiResources 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 #ViolinPedagogy #violinteaching #violateaching
In Episode 107 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, host Dr. Charles Laux welcomes Mac Mayer, orchestra director at Whitaker Middle School in Keizer, Oregon, for an insightful conversation about teaching strings across different regions and levels. With 22 years of experience spanning Ohio, Georgia, Kansas, and Oregon, Mac shares his journey in string education, the importance of energy and honesty in teaching, and his philosophy on effective programming that balances challenge and accessibility.
Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on building musicianship through intonation-focused warm-ups, incorporating ear training, and fostering student independence beyond just playing pieces for performance. Mac also reflects on the significance of mentorship, collegiate string education programs, and professional involvement to grow as an educator. Hear about Mac’s favorite repertoire, including some hidden gems, and learn about his experience working with renowned composer Richard Meyer.
This episode offers inspiration and practical advice for orchestra teachers aiming to elevate their teaching craft, engage students with meaningful repertoire, and navigate the challenges of the profession with passion and resilience. Whether you're a veteran teacher or just starting out, Mac’s candid insights and infectious energy are sure to resonate.
Tune in for a dynamic discussion celebrating the joys and realities of orchestra teaching from the middle school podium to state-level adjudication.
-- BIOGRAPHY --
Mac Mayer is Orchestra Director at Whiteaker Middle School and feeder elementary schools in Keizer, Oregon. He holds undergraduate degrees in Music Performance and Music Education from The Ohio State University, studying with Dr. Rober Gillespie and Dr. Paul Robinson in Music Education and Double Bass, respectively. He holds a Master of Music Education from the University of Kansas, studying with Dr. Jacob Dakon, as well as Dr. Martin Bergee and Dr. Paul Popiel. Prior to teaching in the Salem-Keizer School District Mac taught orchestra in Olathe, Kansas, as well as Cobb County, Georgia and Pickerington, Ohio.
Mac Mayer is a certified orchestra adjudicator for the state of Oregon, and works frequently as an adjudicator, clinician, and conductor throughout the state and region. Mac serves as Co-Chair for the Oregon Middle School All-State Orchestra and is on staff with Salem Youth Symphony as conductor of the Amadeus Orchestra.
— 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!
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
This video episode features an amazing cellist and pedagogue, Harrison Cook, who is the orchestra director at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Kennesaw, Georgia. Harrison gives us some practical, hands-on pedagogy about cello scale fingerings, shifting, extensions, and more.
— BIOGRAPHY —
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. 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 105 — Annie Ray: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact in Orchestra Education
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Annie Ray, 2024 GRAMMY Music Educator Award winner and Orchestra Director at Annandale High School in Fairfax County, VA. Annie shares how she’s redefining access to music education through groundbreaking programs like the Fairfax Parent Orchestra and Crescendo Orchestra—designed for students with significant disabilities.
A nationally recognized speaker and advocate, Annie talks about meeting students where they are, leading with empathy, and balancing motherhood and music education. Her passion and innovation are reshaping what’s possible in the orchestra classroom.
🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of today’s most impactful music educators
— BIOGRAPHY —
Annie Ray currently serves as both the Orchestra Director and Performing Arts Department Chair at Annandale High School (AHS) in the Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) system. Annie is an advocate for providing universal access to quality music education and is known for founding and developing creative opportunities to make music accessible to students of all demographics.
Her establishment of the Fairfax Arts Coalition for Education Parent Orchestra annually teaches about 225 caregivers in FCPS to learn to play their child’s instrument and provides mentorship to upcoming music teachers. Annie also founded the Crescendo Orchestra program to make Orchestra curriculum accessible to students with significant developmental or intellectual disabilities. In April 2020, TEDx invited Annie to give the talk, The Sounds of Success, based on her approach in the classroom and what it means to meet all students where they are at.
Annie is a highly sought after keynote speaker and headliner at over 50 music and general education conferences from 2023-2025 alone, regular guest lecturer and artist-in-residence at the collegiate level, and an impactful performing arts advocate at the state and national level. Her accolades include being named the 2024 GRAMMY Music Educator Award winner, Yamaha “40 Under 40” class of 2025, recipient of the Dr. Alice M. Hammel Inclusion in Music Education Award, and a four time Teacher of the Year winner including the 2023 FCPS Outstanding Secondary Teacher of the Year for her work with historically resilient communities and equity in education. Annie is the co-founder of Motherhood and Music Education and is a member of the StringRise professional development team.
Her mentors include Dennis Langevin, Brian Coatney, Dr. Elizabeth Chappell, Dr. Jaymee Haefner, and Naoko Nakamura. She is an active professional harpist, proud University of North Texas alumna, and currently resides in Arlington, Virginia with her husband Dr. Irving Ray and their daughters Eloise and Millie. Annie is an adventurer at heart, and her biggest bucket list item is to one day win The Amazing Race.
https://www.motherhoodandmusiceducation.com/
— REFERRAL LINKS —
Ready for 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!
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 104 — Dr. Heather Lofdahl: Expanding String Education & Teacher Training
Join us for a conversation with Dr. Heather Lofdahl, Assistant Professor of Music Education at The Ohio State University and recipient of the 2025 OSU Distinguished Teaching Award. We discuss her work expanding access to string education through community partnerships, her leadership with the Newark-Granville Youth Symphony, and her research. A passionate educator and clinician, Dr. Lofdahl shares a few tips for string teachers and some valuable insights.
— BIOGRAPHY —
Dr. Heather Lofdahl is Assistant Professor of Music Education at The Ohio State University, where she directs the string education program. In addition, she serves as Music Director of the Newark-Granville Youth Symphony and music education specialist for Play Us Forward, a community partnership aimed at increasing access to string instruction for underserved students. Dr. Lofdahl is the recipient of the 2025 Ohio State School of Music Distinguished Teaching Award.
Dr. Lofdahl is published in the String Research Journal and American String Teachers Journal. She is an active member of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) and the National Association for Music Education. Through these organizations as well as the Suzuki Association of the Americas and the International Society for Music Education, Dr. Lofdahl has presented research and pedagogy sessions at the Symposium for Music Teacher Education; International Society for Music Education Conference (Glasgow, Scotland and Helsinki, Finland); American String Teachers Association National Conference; and various state conferences. Her research is focused on equity and access in music education, best practices of outstanding string teachers, and practice behaviors of string players. In addition, Dr. Lofdahl serves on the ASTA Content Committee and is President-Elect of the Ohio String Teachers Association.
Dr. Lofdahl holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music Education and Viola Performance from Augustana College, Master of Music degrees in Music Education and Viola Performance from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, and a PhD in Music Education from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. She is an active guest conductor and clinician throughout the United States and abroad.
— 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!
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 103 — Dr. Tamara Dworetz: Leading with Passion, Purpose, and Presence
In this inspiring episode, we welcome Dr. Tamara Dworetz, a dynamic American conductor whose passion for music, education, and storytelling is evident in every note she leads. Tamara shares her incredible journey—from her beginnings in the Atlanta public school system to conducting major orchestras.
🎧 Listen now to hear Dr. Dworetz’s thoughts on artistry, and the evolving role of the modern conductor.
—BIOGRAPHY —
American conductor Tamara Dworetz is driven by her belief in the power of classical music to inspire, spread joy and enrich the human experience. Dworetz's 2025-26 season includes debuts with the Las Vegas Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestra of Northwest Arkansas (SONA). Her 2024-25 season includes debuts with the Cincinnati Symphony, Atlanta Ballet (The Rite of Spring & The Nutcracker), Sarasota Orchestra and Boulder Philharmonic. She was one of three conductors selected to participate in Leonard Slatkin's 80th Birthday Celebration with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Tamara is the Artistic Director & Conductor of the Georgia Philharmonic, which performs five subscription concerts a year, in addition to special events like World Wrestling Entertainment, DragonCon & Gospel Goes Classical. Recently, Tamara conducted her first staged opera, Bizet's Carmen.
Tamara is featured in a Netflix documentary called 'Maestra', directed by Maggie Contreras and produced by David Letterman. The film centers around 5 conducting participants in the 2022 La Maestra Conducting Competition and Academy for Women Conductors in Paris, France and has been highlighted by the NY Times, LA Times, CBS National News as well as international film festivals, including Tribeca, where it was premiered. In the 2022 competition, Tamara was the only US-born conductor and earned a spot as one of 6 semi-finalists.
A devoted music educator, Tamara’s musical beginnings took place in the Atlanta public school system and she is passionate about fostering enriching musical experiences for K-12 and pre-professional musicians. Tamara is Director of Orchestral Studies at Georgia State University and Charles Thomas Wurm Distinguished Professor in Instrumental Music. She has served guest conducting residencies at University of Texas Butler School of Music, Boston University School of Music, SUNY Fredonia School of Music, and the Longy Conservatory Orchestra at Bard College. She has guest conducted All-State Orchestras in Texas, Indiana, Virginia, Colorado, Georgia and Washington (All-Northwest) and worked with the Atlanta, Austin, Emory and Boston Youth Orchestras as well as the Atlanta Music Project. She has led conducting workshops for music educators (GMEA Conference) as well as with young musicians (ASO TDP program).
— 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.
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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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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 102 – Dr. Benjamin Whitcomb: Performer, Pedagogue, and Prolific Author
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome the esteemed Dr. Benjamin Whitcomb, Professor of Cello and Music Theory at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Dr. Whitcomb shares insights from his extensive career as a performer, educator, and author. With accolades for his teaching, research, and service, Dr. Whitcomb offers a wealth of knowledge on effective practice techniques, musical interpretation, and the evolving world of string pedagogy.
Join us as we discuss his influential publications, including The Advancing String Player’s Handbook series and his work on cello and bass fingerings, as well as his more recent contributions like the Compendium of Chords and the Guide to Practicing the Popper Etudes. We also delve into his involvement with the American String Teachers Association and his initiatives at UW-Whitewater that enrich the musical and academic community.
Whether you’re a teacher, performer, or student, this conversation is packed with practical advice and inspiration from one of the field’s most dedicated advocates. Don’t miss this engaging and informative episode!
— Links to his books on Amazon —
The Advancing Cellist's Handbook: A Guide to Practicing and Playing the Cello https://amzn.to/3ERi8d1
Compendium of Chords for the Cello https://amzn.to/4mc2kT4
A Guide to Practicing David Popper’s ‘Hohe Schule’ Etudes https://amzn.to/42LL3s4
Compendium of Chords for the Viola https://amzn.to/42Rtjvy
Compendium of Chords for the Violin https://amzn.to/3EGIVsw
The Advancing Bassist's Handbook: A Guide to Practicing and Playing the Bass https://amzn.to/4dhctty
— Audio CDs —
Bloch, Muczynski and Reger: 20th Century Music for Unaccompanied Cello https://amzn.to/3RRdi2n
J.S. Bach: Cello Suites 1, 3 & 5; D. Gabrielli: Ricercars 1, 3 & 5 https://amzn.to/44tS2XY
Bloch, Britten, Cassadó and Hindemith - Music for 20th Century Cello, Vol. 2 https://amzn.to/4iOJxKj
— LINKS —
www.YouHadMeAtCello.com
www.benjaminwhitcomb.com
www.youtube.com/channel/UC8vurOMoq-CfdZIEvmF6bnQ
https://www.facebook.com/CelloDoctorWhitcomb
https://www.instagram.com/cellodrwhitcomb/
https://twitter.com/CelloDrWhitcomb
https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-whitcomb-8922a349/
— 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!
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 #101 with Dr. Rick Webb
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome Dr. Richard S. Webb, a distinguished educator, conductor, and scholar in the field of string music education. Dr. Webb shares insights from his journey, from earning degrees in viola performance and music education at Bowling Green State University and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, to his decade of impactful school orchestra teaching and his advanced studies culminating in a Ph.D. from Northwestern University.
Currently an Associate Professor at SUNY Fredonia’s School of Music, Dr. Webb discusses his work as a published scholar, composer, and arranger — including his celebrated arrangements spotlighting the music of Black American composers from the early “pre-jazz” era. He also reflects on his experiences conducting festivals and all-state orchestras nationwide, directing the SUNY-Fredonia Summer Music Festival String Camp, and leading within ASTA as a past-president of the New York chapter.
Join us for a rich conversation about the evolving landscape of string education, historical repertoire for orchestras, and Dr. Webb’s passion for empowering young musicians through innovative teaching and community building.
To learn more about Dr. Webb, visit rickwebbmusic.com. Contact him at webb@fredonia.edu
Arrangements by Rick Webb, published by Keiser-Southern Music Co.
James Reese Europe & Ford Dabney, arr. Rick Webb
The Castle Walk Rag (grade 3)
- https://www.jwpepper.com/the-castle-walk-rag-11570778/p?srsltid=AfmBOoosL5--JvyPIoXe736kSnlpYH5SBpBp9oIoFZs_iNOBXYvl43pB
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKi4SB6hxA0
William C. Handy, arr. Rick Webb
The Memphis Blues (grade 4)
- https://www.jwpepper.com/the-memphis-blues-11570794-2194817/p
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLSmMkqC0iQ
In Press (for Spring 2025), published by Keiser-Southern Music Co.
Traditional Cajun Melody, arr. Rick Webb
The Mamou Two-Step (grade 3.5)
Ferdinand J. “Jelly Roll” Morton, arr. Rick Webb
The New Orleans Blues (grade 3)
James Reese Europe, arr. Rick Webb
The Clef Club March (grade 2.5-3)
— 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!
https://tv.youtube.com/referral/r22irzcuy7jshi
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TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast
OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter
We’ve made it to Episode 100 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, and there’s no better way to celebrate this milestone than by welcoming one of the most influential voices in string education—Dr. Bob Gillespie.
Dr. Gillespie is Professor Emeritus of String Education and Pedagogy at The Ohio State University, a past national President of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), and a celebrated author, researcher, and conductor whose impact on the string world is simply unmatched. Under his leadership, Ohio State was named the premier string education university in the U.S., and his contributions to pedagogy have shaped the teaching practices of thousands of educators across the globe.
In this very special episode, we talk with Dr. Gillespie about his remarkable career—from guest conducting across 49 states and beyond, to co-authoring the wildly popular Essential Elements for Strings method series (with over 12 million copies sold). We also dive into his enduring work with the Ohio State String Teacher Workshop, his numerous award-winning publications, and the deep passion that has guided his life’s work in music education.
Whether you’re a veteran teacher or just starting your journey, Dr. Gillespie’s wisdom, humor, and insights are sure to inspire and energize you.
🎧 Don’t miss this historic episode as we honor 100 episodes of empowering string educators—with a true legend of the field.
-- BIOGRAPHY --
Dr. Bob Gillespie is Professor Emeritus of String Education at The Ohio State University and one of the most respected figures in American string pedagogy. Under his leadership, Ohio State was named the nation’s top string education program by receiving the 2015 Institutional String Education Award. A past national President of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), Dr. Gillespie has guest conducted and presented clinics in 49 states, Canada, and Asia, and has led over 350 sessions at national and international conferences.
He is co-author of the bestselling Essential Elements for Strings method series, with over 12 million copies sold, as well as Strategies for Teaching Strings, Teaching Music Through Performance in Orchestra, String Clinics to Go, and Rockin’ Strings. A prolific researcher, he has published more than 70 articles and received The Ohio State University’s Distinguished Scholar Award.
Dr. Gillespie founded and directed the Ohio State University String Teacher Workshop for 35 years, training over 1,700 teachers. He also conducts the Columbus Symphony Chamber Strings Youth Orchestra. His numerous honors include the Paul Rolland Lifetime Achievement Award, the University of Michigan School of Music Hall of Fame Award, and the Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor for his lifelong contributions to instrumental music education.
— 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 the experience!
https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/
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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 #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast
OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #TeachingStrings #StringsMatter
Episode #99 – Bridging Cultures and Styles with Jesús Florido
In this vibrant episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we welcome the incomparable Jesús E. Florido—a genre-defying violinist, passionate educator, and global clinician whose music and teaching transcend borders.
Classically trained yet wildly versatile, Jesús brings a rich fusion of Afro-Latin, Jazz, Rock, Fiddle, and Classical influences into his performances and pedagogy. He’s played alongside legendary artists and continues to inspire audiences with his soulful virtuosity and electrifying stage presence.
Join us as Jesús shares his journey from conservatory training to sharing stages with his heroes, and how he now dedicates his time to empowering the next generation of string players through immersive workshops and clinics around the world. From his studio in Los Angeles to classrooms across the globe, Jesús reminds us of the power of musical diversity, cultural connection, and the importance of staying grounded and positive.
🎧 Tune in for stories, insights, and inspiration from one of the most dynamic voices in string education today!
— BIOGRAPHY —
Jesús E. Florido combines his classical training with his knowledge of Afro-Latin, Jazz, Rock, and Fiddle music to create a compelling artistry, balanced on a fine axis of musical virtuosity and heart. A live performer who has shared the stage with many great artists and a lot of his idols as well, he loves teaching and he is a highly sought - after teacher and clinician. He regularly conducts workshops and clinics for kids all around the world. He resides in Los Angeles where he works in his private studio and continues to practice as much as he can while packing his bags for the next trip after going on a nature hike with his wife and son.
www.jesusflorido.com
— 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 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.
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 #98 – Dr. James Mick discusses college teaching, his research, and more!
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. James Mick, Professor of Music Education at Ithaca College, for an insightful conversation on the art and heart of string education. With a wealth of experience as a conductor, pedagogue, clinician, and researcher, Dr. Mick shares his perspectives on effective orchestral teaching, the psychology of music learning, and the enduring impact of public school music programs.
We discuss his extensive work with student ensembles and his leadership with the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Dr. Mick also offers thoughts on current research in music education, his passion for adjudication and pedagogy, and the importance of nurturing musical excellence at every level.
Whether you’re a classroom teacher, private instructor, or aspiring conductor, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom you won’t want to miss.
🎧 Tune in and be inspired by Dr. Mick’s commitment to music education and his amazing journey!
— BIOGRAPHY —
James Mick, PhD, is Professor of Music Education at Ithaca College in upstate New York. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in string pedagogy, orchestral rehearsal techniques, instrumental conducting, and the psychology of music teaching and learning.
A popular clinician, Dr. Mick has presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences including the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) National Conference and The Midwest Clinic: An International Band & Orchestra Conference. He has been invited as the featured orchestra/strings clinician at music education conferences in Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Texas, and an invited guest speaker at a variety of higher education institutions.
Originally a native of Kansas, Dr. Mick previously taught elementary and middle school orchestra in Texas, and high school orchestra and jazz in New York. He holds degrees from Florida State University, Doctor of Philosophy in Music Education; Ithaca College, Master of Music in Music Education; and, Texas Christian University, Bachelor of Music Education. Outside of his academic pursuits, Dr. Mick is an avid bicyclist who enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth Moore, DVM, PhD, and their son, Silas, exploring the beautiful Fingerlakes region.
— 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 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.
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 97 – Inspiring the Next Generation: A Conversation with Daniella Valdez
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Daniella Valdez, a dynamic music educator, conductor, and advocate for orchestral excellence. As the Director of String Ensembles at the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) and Director of Orchestras at Maine West High School, Ms. Valdez has dedicated her career to building strong, successful programs that inspire young musicians.
Join us as we explore her journey from Texas Tech and Northwestern University to leading award-winning ensembles in Illinois and Texas. We’ll discuss her contributions to ASTA at both state and national levels, and traits that earned her the recognition as the 2024 Youth Orchestra Conductor of the Year.
This episode is packed with insights on music education, leadership, and creating inclusive, thriving orchestra programs. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of today’s most inspiring orchestra educators!
🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
--
- BIOGRAPHY *
Daniella Valdez is CYSO Director of String Ensembles and conducts CYSO’s Preparatory Strings and Accelerando Strings ensembles. She received her musical training at Texas Tech University and Northwestern University School of Music, where she received her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees respectively.
In 2011 Ms. Valdez joined the faculty staff at Maine West High School, in Des Plaines, Illinois, as the Director of Orchestras. In this capacity she conducts one full orchestra, two string ensembles and teaches piano classes. Prior to her appointment at Maine West, Ms. Valdez was an orchestra director in Lewisville, TX and Highland Park, IL. Her career as a music educator and conductor has led to developing strong and successful orchestra programs. Ms. Valdez is an active judge and clinician working with community schools, festivals and workshops and has written several publications for music education journals. She is an active member of the Illinois Educators Association and she sits on the board of the American String Teachers Association- Illinois chapter. In addition, she also serves on the ASTA national board as member-at-large. In addition to her work with orchestras, she is also active in educating and implementing DEIA initiatives with organizations and schools.
Also an accomplished commercial player, she has performed on stage with Chuck Mangione, Marvin Hamlish, Toni Tennille, and John Pizzarelli. Daniella lives in Chicago and enjoys traveling, cooking and being with family and friends.
— 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 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.
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 96 – A Legacy of Excellence: Bill Bitter on Four Decades of Music Education
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I am honored to welcome the legendary Bill Bitter, a powerhouse in music education with over 40 years of experience in Gilbert Public Schools, Arizona. Mr. Bitter dedicated his career to shaping young musicians, teaching orchestra and band at every level, and leading the acclaimed Highland High School Orchestras for nearly three decades.
Join us as we dive into his remarkable journey—his experiences opening a new high school program, directing ensembles that performed at the Midwest Clinic and Carnegie Hall, and serving in leadership roles with the Arizona Band and Orchestra Director’s Association. We also discuss his insights on fostering strong orchestra programs, building a legacy, and retirement.
Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching journey, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice from one of the best in the field. Tune in and be inspired by the incredible impact of Bill Bitter!
🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
— BIOGRAPHY —
Bill Bitter retired in 2022 after forty-one years with Gilbert Public Schools, Gilbert, AZ. During that time, he taught orchestra and band at all levels, elementary through high school. Mr. Bitter first served twelve years as the Director of Orchestras and Assistant Band Director at Gilbert High School, until 1993 when Highland High School opened. After opening Highland High School, Mr. Bitter was the Director of Orchestras and Chairman of the Performing Arts Department for twenty-nine years. The Highland Orchestras had an enrollment of over 350 students in five performing ensembles.
Mr. Bitter has served as an adjudicator and clinician for festivals throughout the United States. His orchestras performed on four different occasions at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and were the first orchestra from an Arizona High School to perform in New York’s world-renowned Carnegie Hall. In 2014, the Arizona Music Educators Association named Mr. Bitter the Arizona Music Educator of the Year, and in 2015, he received the Elizabeth A. H. Green School Educator Award from 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. 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.
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
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Dr. Geoff Neuman, a seasoned conductor, educator, and bassist. Dr. Neuman currently serves as the Director of Instrumental Music at The State College of Florida, where he leads The Bradenton Symphony and SCF Symphonic Band.
With over 25 years of experience in music education, Dr. Neuman shares insights into his approach to teaching, conducting, and inspiring young musicians. We also dive into his experiences performing on double bass with the Las Vegas Philharmonic and collaborating with world-renowned artists like Andrea Bocelli, Jennifer Hudson, Itzhak Perlman, and more.
Join us for an engaging conversation about music education, orchestral leadership, and the dynamic world of professional performance. Whether you’re an educator, performer, or music enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration!
— 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 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.
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
In episode 94 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are honored to welcome the esteemed Georgia Lambros Ekonomou. With an impressive career spanning decades, Georgia has made a profound impact on string education in Georgia and beyond. As the former director of orchestras at the Paideia School and the Lovett School, she has led ensembles to national and international acclaim.Join us as we discuss her journey as an educator, her approach to student engagement, and her insights into building outstanding orchestral programs. We also explore her experiences as a conductor, clinician, and performer with a variety of renowned ensembles.Whether you’re a seasoned music educator or just beginning your teaching career, this conversation is filled with valuable wisdom and inspiration. Tune in for an engaging discussion with a true leader in string education!
-- BIOGRAPHY --'
Georgia Lambros Ekonomou is the former director of orchestras at the Paideia School and the Lovett Schools in Atlanta, Georgia. During her tenure at Lovett, the Lovett Chamber Orchestra performed at the 1990 MENC National Conference in Washington, D.C.; the 1997 Georgia Music Educators Association Conference in Savannah, Georgia; and at the 1997 International Association of Jazz Educators Conference in Atlanta. She is the recipient of the Lovett School’s Woodward Award for excellence in teaching, and the Georgia/ASTA Lifetime Achievement Award in honor and recognition of her contribution to musical excellence in the state of Georgia. In 2006, Ekonomou founded the Atlanta Junior Chamber Orchestra where she served as Artistic Director and Conductor. She is active throughout the United States as a conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in music education from Northwestern University, and a master’s degree in Music Education from Georgia State University. She is a member of ASTA and NAfME and has served in leadership positions at the State level for both organizations.A violinist, she has performed with the Atlanta Opera Orchestra, the Woman’s Jazz Orchestra of Los Angeles, the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra, the Atlanta Chamber Orchestra, the Emory Chamber Players, and other ensembles in the Atlanta area.— 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 the experience! https://www.kaleidoscopeadventures.com/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/Looking for things on Amazon? Use my referral link:https://amzn.to/3RkfRLkDo 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/TheOrchestraTeacherYNABDo 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/r22irzcuy7jshiResources 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 #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: mark.laycock@wichita.edu
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: slawrencegmea@gmail.com
-- 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!
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“From Zero to Fiddle in 60 minutes” Designed to bring classical players on their fiddling journey. Completely free. All instruments are welcome.
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“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: Jessica.Fuchs@cobbk12.org
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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: angela.harman@gmail.com
Website: www.orchestraclassroom.com
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/orchestra-classroom
Instagram: @orchestra.teacher.life
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orchestraclassroom
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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:
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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!
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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: christine.gero@gmail.com
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!
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—
TheOrchestraTeacherPodcast #MusicEducation #PodcastForTeachers #OrchestraPodcast #MusicTeacherLife #PodcastForEducators #StringTeacherPodcast #MusicEdPodcast #TeacherPodcast
OrchestraTeacher #StringEducation #OrchestraLife #StringPlayers #StringTeacherLife #OrchestraClass #TeachingStrings #MusicEd #TeachingMusic #StringsMatter
David Pope serves an Associate Professor of Music Education at Baldwin Wallace University’s Conservatory of Performing Arts. In addition, he is also a senior conductor and camp director for the Baldwin Wallace University String Orchestra Camp and serves as a string clinician for Alfred Music. As an active adjudicator and clinician, he has conducted numerous all-state orchestras, regional honor orchestras, and served as a guest clinician for orchestra programs, university summer camps, and university music education programs across the United States. Prior to Baldwin Wallace, Dr. Pope taught middle and high orchestra in Tennessee, Florida, and Ohio. He also conducted the Camerata Orchestra at Case Western Reserve University, taught graduate string pedagogy courses at the VanderCook College of Music, and served as a conductor for the Sarasota (FL) and Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra programs. He also worked at Spoleto Festival USA and the Aspen Music Festival. Dr. Pope received his bachelor's degree and Ph.D. in music education from Florida State University and master's degree from the University of South Carolina.
Dr. Pope has presented string pedagogy clinics and his research at the European String Teachers Association’s (ESTA) International Congress, the American String Teacher Association’s (ASTA) National Conference, The Midwest Clinic, and numerous regional and state conferences. His work has also been published in the Journal of Research in Music Education, Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education, String Research Journal, Research Perspectives in Music Education, Missouri Journal of Research in Music Education, Music Educators Journal, American String Teacher, Florida Music Director, The Instrumentalist, ESTA Norway, and School Band & Orchestra. Dr. Pope currently serves as the Editor for The String Research Journal.
Dr. Pope recently served as a co-editor for volume 4 of Teaching Music Through Performance in Orchestra and as a co-author for Sound Orchestra. He also recently served as Chair for the ASTA National Conference (2020, 2021, 2023). Dr. Pope was named the 2022 Ohio ASTA Collegiate Educator of the Year and was previously recognized by the Yale Symposium for Music in Schools with the 2015 Distinguished Music Educator Award. Dr. Pope was also awarded the 2021 Presidential Service Award and the 2020 Emerging String Researcher Award from the American String Teachers Association. He is a current member of the National Association for Music Education and the American String Teachers Association.
Contact: dpope@bw.edu
-- 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
Weekend Preview!!
Some fantastic episodes coming this weekend! A trifecta of greatness -- college, high school, and middle school specialists!!
Friday is Dr. David Pope from Baldwin Wallace University. Saturday I have Christine Gero who is orchestra director in Seattle, Washington. Then on Sunday is the incredible Angela Harman, Orchestra Director at Maple Grove Middle School in Utah and author of www.OrchestraClassroom.com! Tune in, like, and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!
-- 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/
David Doke is a dedicated and accomplished music educator with over 30 years of experience in orchestra program development and conducting. He spent his teaching career in the Cobb County (GA) School System, where he holds the notable achievement of founding two high school orchestra programs. His teaching journey began in 1994 as the founding director of the North Cobb High School Orchestra, where he taught for 12 years. In 2006, he left North Cobb to establish the Hillgrove High School Orchestra program, where he served as Director of Orchestras, Advanced Placement Music Theory teacher, and Fine Arts Department Chair until his retirement in 2024.
As a music educator Dr. Doke cultivated a tradition of excellence among his students, earning recognition at state, national, and international levels. His ensembles were featured at the Georgia Music Educators State Conference with the North Cobb Symphony (2001) and the Hillgrove Symphony (2010 and 2015). He led student performances at esteemed venues, including Symphony Hall in Boston (2006), the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC (2012), Orchestra Hall in Chicago (2013), and Carnegie Hall in New York (2011, 2014, 2017, and 2022). Internationally, he conducted performances in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, China (2016); at the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings in Sainte-Mère-Église and Paris, France (2019); and at Harpa Hall in Reykjavik, Iceland (2024).
Many of Dr. Doke's students have gone on to pursue music degrees at prestigious music institutions, including the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, the Cleveland Institute of Music, the Berklee College of Music, Belmont University, the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University, and the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Dr. Doke received the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Honor Teacher Award in 2003 and was recognized as STAR Teacher at Hillgrove High School in both 2012 and 2024.
https://www.daviddokestrings.com
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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
Ben McWhorter is the orchestra teacher at Tates Creek High School in Lexington, Kentucky. Known for his professional, engaging, and collaborative approach to teaching, Ben’s orchestras have consistently earned “Distinguished” ratings at district performance assessments during his 19 year tenure. In 2023, Ben implemented a middle school mentoring program, with high school orchestra musicians providing individual instruction to over 50 younger students. This has significantly increased student achievement at both schools and fostered a strong connection between the two programs. Ben secured a grant in 2024 to provide weekly professional chamber music coaching to over 30 of his students, leading to significant growth in their musicianship and fostering a strong sense of collaboration and ensemble.Ben is passionate about the transformative power of string education. He works to ensure that all students have access to orchestra instruction and a wide variety of musical experiences to develop their love of music. An active member of the string education community, Ben served as President of the Kentucky ASTA from 2012-2014 and as a member of the KMEA String Council from 2008-2012. During his tenure on the KMEA String Council, he played a key role in developing a new graded string orchestra list. He is a frequent presenter at state and national conferences, including the 2024 and upcoming 2025 ASTA Conferences.Ben holds a B.M. in Music Education from the University of Louisville and M.M.E. in Music Teacher Education from The Ohio State University. He also has received specialized training in the pedagogical practices of George Bornoff. His professional interests include strengthening music literacy, implementing learner-centered instruction, and utilizing effective assessment practices within the instrumental music classroom.Ben lives in Lexington with his wife, Hillary, their son Charlie, and their three cats.Ben can be reached at: Ben.mcwhorter@fayette.kyschools.us---Please follow/like/subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel or browse ideas and resources on my website!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast 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/3RkfRLkDo 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/youneedabudgetnowDo 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
Thomas Chen is Director of Orchestras at Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. Under his direction, the Carmel High School Symphony Orchestra earned regular appearances at the Indiana State School Music Association State High School Concert Finals, produced a recording of Dvorak Symphony No. 9, and performed at The Midwest Clinic in 2019 and 2024. Chen previously held the position of Assistant Director at Dobie High School in Houston, Texas, where he helped lead five orchestras to earn Superior ratings at UIL Concert and Sight Reading.In addition to public school teaching, Chen is Associate Conductor with the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra’s Symphony Orchestra. Chen has performed as a guest conductor with the Purdue University Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Ohio Wesleyan University Summer Music Camp, and Wright State University Fall Strings Festival.Chen earned his Bachelor of Music Education from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where he studied viola with Dr. Nicole Brockmann. While completing his studies, he earned opportunities to perform in masterclasses with the American String Quartet and Joan Tower.Chen is a proud member of the American String Teachers Association and National Association for Music Education. He currently serves as Orchestra Division Chair with the Indiana Music Education Association and President-Elect with the Indiana Chapter of the American String Teachers Association.----Please follow/like/subscribe to the podcast and YouTube channel or browse ideas and resources on my website!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast 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/3RkfRLkDo 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/youneedabudgetnowDo 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
This the LAST episode for 2024! Thank you for the support this year! A ton of great content coming your way in 2025!About episode #80...Lauren Roznowski Hayden works for Longfellow Middle School, as orchestra teacher to more than 315 students. She has been a public school teacher for over 17 years, teaching orchestra at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She has taught in the Wauwatosa School District for six years, which as an alumna of the district herself, is a dream come true. Prior to her current position, Lauren worked as Director of Learning in Music for the Kettle Moraine School District, as well as teaching orchestra and interdisciplinary music-based seminars. Lauren is also a music director for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, serving as conductor of the Sinfonia Orchestra, an audition-based group made up of one hundred 4th-10th grade student musicians in Southeastern Wisconsin. Lauren has a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Viola Performance from Lawrence University, and a Master of Music in Interdisciplinary Arts in Music Education from Northwestern University. She has maintained her National Board Certification in Music Education for more than ten years, and holds a principal license as well. In 2024, Lauren was honored with a Kohl Teaching Fellowship, and a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching (DAST). As a Fulbrighter, Lauren collaborated with Victoriano Lopez Escuela de Musica, living and working in San Pedro Sula Honduras for six weeks in the summer of 2024. Lauren is a lifelong resident of Wauwatosa, WI, and lives there with her husband, Mike (also an orchestra teacher), and their two daughters. She is very involved in her community, serving as president of the Wauwatosa Library Board of Trustees, and leader of two Girl Scout Troops. In her free time, Lauren loves to travel with her family, and spend time outdoors kayaking, hiking, and camping. She also loves to read, cook, and paint. --Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast 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/3RkfRLkDo 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/youneedabudgetnowDo 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
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Rachael Keplin—a versatile violist, string educator, and free improviser—for a deep dive into the world of free improvisation, mindfulness, and their transformative impact on learning to play stringed instruments.Dr. Keplin shares her unique approach to fostering creativity and connection through free improvisation, offering insights into how mindfulness can enhance student engagement and musical growth. Dr. Keplin shares a few practical classroom strategies for integrating these concepts into both group and studio teaching environments, making this episode a must-listen for educators looking to inspire their students in new and innovative ways.🎶 About Dr. Rachael KeplinDr. Keplin serves as Associate Principal for the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra and frequently performs with ensembles like the North Carolina Opera and North Charleston Pops. A passionate chamber musician, she co-founded the contemporary ensembles Chamber Brews and Sounding Board, championing new music and non-classical genres.Beyond performance, Rachael creates her own music using a Boss RC-600 loop station, performing solo looper shows throughout North Carolina. Recently awarded the ACGC Artist Grant, she’s currently producing her debut album. Her dissertation, Mindfulness and Free Improvisation, has been presented at national conferences, and she continues to integrate these practices into her teaching at Wake Forest University and The Music Academy of North Carolina.🎧 Tune in to learn how mindfulness and improvisation can transform your teaching and your students’ musical journeys! Watch on YouTube at https://youtu.be/nSGJHmQ6eAQ
For more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net
Read Dr. Keplin’s dissertation here: https://f051af03-d154-425f-bf90-05257cf0f8b0.filesusr.com/ugd/23e7a7_4a185ff0626c482890f9ed8f5c274cfc.pdf
-- 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 heartfelt episode, I reunite with three remarkable former Alpharetta High School Orchestra students—Jason Juang, Kacie Xie, and Sarang Pujari—as they share their orchestra journeys and how those experiences have shaped their collegiate years and budding careers. From concert stages to cutting-edge innovation, their stories highlight the transformative power of music education and the lifelong impact of creative collaboration.
Jason Juang, a Georgia Tech alumnus and Henry Luce Scholar, is now a climate change researcher at the Delta Electronics Foundation in Taipei, Taiwan. A former cellist with 7 years of orchestra experience, Jason reminisces about his middle and high school music days and how impromptu college jam sessions with his roommate kept his love for music alive.
Kaci Xie, a recent Yale graduate in Computing and the Arts and Education Studies, reflects on her time as a violist and how it fueled her passion for early childhood education and her involvement with the Yale Symphony Orchestra. Now the founder of Cimu, a startup helping fashion retailers reduce returns, Kacie shares how the discipline and creativity she cultivated in orchestra continue to inspire her entrepreneurial and educational endeavors.
Sarang Pujari, a dual-degree recipient in Computer Science from Georgia Tech, recalls his rich musical background, including six years in All-State, performing with the Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, and his time in Georgia Tech's Symphony Orchestra. Now a software engineer in Miami, Sarang discusses how his orchestra experience instilled teamwork and focus—skills he carries into his career in tech.Join us as we explore how their time in the orchestra prepared them for success, nurtured their passions, and created lifelong memories.
Whether you're a music enthusiast, educator, or former performer, this episode celebrates the enduring influence of music education on personal and professional growth. 🎻✨Also watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YnIvEhgDNXk
For resources and more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net#OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #OrchestraLife #studentsuccess #orchestraalumni #musiceducationmatters #StringsInspiration #ArtsEducation #MusicMatters
A trailer about upcoming episodes featuring some incredible former students! You won't want to miss them!Friday, December 6 - Episode #78 with Sarang Pujari, Kaci Xie, and Jason JuangSunday, December 8 - Episode #79 with Dr. Rachael Keplin
In episode #77 of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, we are joined by Vinny Conrod, Director of Orchestras at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL, and President of the Florida chapter of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA). With years of experience teaching at both the middle and high school levels, Vinny shares his journey of opening a brand-new high school orchestra program, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of starting from scratch, building a strong program, and fostering a positive culture for both students and staff.Vinny has led orchestras to prestigious events such as the ASTA National Orchestra Festival, the Florida Music Education Association’s State Conference, and the Texas Music Educators Association State Conference. His passion for music education and his commitment to excellence have made him a standout figure in the field.Tune in for this exciting conversation and hear more about Vinny’s innovative approach to teaching, leadership, and growing a thriving orchestra program at a brand-new school.--About Vinny Conrod...Vinny Conrod is the Director of Orchestras at Innovation High School in Orlando, FL, and serves as President of the Florida ASTA chapter. Previously, Mr. Conrod taught Orchestra at Lake Nona High School (Orange County Public Schools - Orlando, FL), Doerre Intermediate School (Klein Independent School District - Houston, TX) and Avalon Middle School (Orange County Public Schools - Orlando, FL).Orchestras under Mr. Conrod’s direction have performed at the ASTA National Orchestra Festival, Florida Music Education Association's State Conference, and Texas Music Educators Association State Conference. Mr. Conrod holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education with a minor in Performing Arts Administration, and a Master’s of Arts in Music with a concentration in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Central Florida.#OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #OrchestraLife #TeachingTips #TeacherVoices #StringPedagogy #CreativeTeachers #MusicTeacherTribe #ProfessionalDevelopment #OrchestraClassroom #OrchestraPodcast #MusicEducation #StringTeaching #TeacherInterviews #OrchestraTeacher #CreativeTeachers #ListenAndLearn
In this episode of The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, I sit down with the legendary Bob Phillips, an innovator in string education, composer, and conductor, whose work has shaped the landscape of string music education. Known for his pioneering contributions to large group pedagogy and eclectic styles for strings, Bob has written over 25 book series and more than 225 published works for orchestras and bands, reaching thousands of students each year.Bob reflects on his remarkable career, which includes building a nationally recognized string program in Saline, MI, directing the internationally acclaimed Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic, and performing at venues like the White House and The Midwest Clinic. He shares his experiences as an educator, from teaching string students in the classroom to conducting youth symphonies and leading educational initiatives for organizations like the Great Lakes Music Camp.Throughout the conversation, Bob discusses the importance of diversity in repertoire, the role of eclectic music in fostering student engagement, and the strategies that made his programs thrive. He also shares insights on his long-standing work as a teacher trainer, clinician, and his passion for giving back to the music community.With a career spanning more than four decades, including numerous honors such as multiple "Teacher of the Year" awards, induction into the University of Michigan School of Music Hall of Fame, and the Distinguished Service Award from the American String Teachers Association, Bob Phillips is a true leader in music education.Join us for an inspiring discussion about the evolution of string education, the power of diverse musical styles, and the impact of passionate teaching on students' lives.Perfect for: Orchestra teachers, string educators, composers, conductors, and anyone interested in innovative approaches to music education and performance.#OrchestraTeacher#MusicEducation#OrchestraLife#TeachingMusic#StringEducation#OrchestraEducation#MusicTeachers#EducatorsOfInstagram#OrchestraDirector#MusicClassroom#StringsClass#TeachingStrings#MusicTeachersOfInstagram#YouthOrchestra#BandAndOrchestra#StringPedagogy#OrchestraCommunity#MusicTeacherLife
In this 75th episode, I sit down with Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli, an award-winning music educator and director of orchestras at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, CA. With a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions and a wealth of experience in both orchestra and choral music, Tiffany shares her insights on what it takes to build successful, high-performing music programs.From her academic journey to her leadership roles as President of the California Orchestra Directors Association and Secretary of the American String Teachers Association, Tiffany discusses the importance of mentorship, student self-efficacy, and the role of diversity in the repertoire.
Under Tiffany’s leadership, the Henry M. Gunn High School Orchestras have consistently earned superior ratings at festivals, performed at prestigious national conferences, and even earned the title of "Grand Champions" at the 2024 Orchestra Cup National Championships. But it's not just about the accolades—Tiffany's commitment to the growth of her students as musicians and individuals is at the heart of her teaching philosophy.Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the intersection of music education, leadership, and the power of music to transform lives.
--Tiffany Ou-Ponticelli teaches orchestra at Henry M. Gunn High School in Palo Alto, CA. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli holds a B.A. in Music Education (viola) from the University of California, Los Angeles. She earned her master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Michigan, where her research focused on group composition and student musical self-efficacy in the middle school orchestra classroom. In the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, she studied viola with Richard O’Neill, and received her teaching credential from the UCLA Teacher Education Program. Her ensembles at Gunn High School and previously at Fletcher Middle School, consistently receive superior ratings at festivals. Under Ms. Ou-Ponticelli’s direction, the Henry M. Gunn High School Orchestras have performed at conferences including the Midwest Clinic International Band & Orchestra Conference (2022), the American String Teachers Association National Orchestra Festival (2018), and were named “Grand Champions” at the Orchestra Cup National Orchestra Championships (2024). Ms. Ou-Ponticelli currently serves as President of the California Orchestra Directors Association (CODA), as Secretary of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) national Board of Directors, and as Website Editor for California Music Educators Association (CMEA) Bay Section. She has also held positions as CODA All-State Orchestras Coordinator, CODA Secretary, CMEA Bay Section Orchestra Representative, and has served as a member of the American String Teacher’s Journal Editorial Committee. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli has presented at state and national conferences including ASTA and CASMEC, and has been an invited conductor for county- and state-level honor ensembles. She was the recipient of the 2022 CMEA Bay Section Outstanding Orchestra Educator Award, and the 2023 CMEA State Richard L. Levin Orchestra Educator Award.Ms. Ou-Ponticelli is an active clinician, guest conductor, violist, and vocalist in the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to her orchestral background, she is a lifelong choral singer and currently performs as an alto with the San Francisco Symphony Chorus. Ms. Ou-Ponticelli holds a Level III Orff Certification and is an advocate for incorporating Orff pedagogy in the secondary ensemble setting. Her research interests include musical self-efficacy, repertoire diversity, and solfège singing for instrumentalists.
This short trailer podcast briefly explains why I haven't created any new episodes in a few months. Good news is that there is more to come, so stay tuned!
Nicole DeGuire is Associate Director of Orchestras at Carmel High School, Indiana ASTA President, and an avid free-lance violinist with numerous orchestras across the state of Indiana. Earning her B.M. in Violin Performance with Honors at Butler University, she went on to complete her M.M. in Violin Performance and Literature, and an Orchestral Studies Diploma from The Eastman School of Music. Teachers include Charles Castleman, Ilya Kaler, Lisa Brooks, Davis Brooks, Larry Shapiro, Geoffrey Applegate and Paul Kantor.
Previously, she served as Director of Orchestras at Fishers High School. Her groups earned gold ratings along with “With Distinction” at both ISSMA District and State Qualifications. It was under her direction that the FHS Symphony Orchestra made the ISSMA State Finals for the first time in 2017. She absolutely loves working with middle and high school students, and truly enjoys serving as a guest clinician and adjudicator,
Nicole has extensive orchestral experience performing with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, and the Ft. Wayne Philharmonic. Other professional orchestral experience includes Rochester Philharmonic, Erie Philharmonic, Albany Symphony Orchestra and South Bend Symphony Orchestra.
Ms. DeGuire is the Indiana ASTA All-State Orchestra Coordinator, an ISSMA State Board Member and was also the 2020 Indiana ASTA High School Orchestra Teacher of the Year.
Nicole is available to serve as a clinician, presenter, and guest conductor and can be reached at ndeguire@ccs.k12.in.us.
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
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Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
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Check out this fantastic conversation with Dr. David Miller of the University of Kentucky. Dr. Miller discusses his discovery of string teaching (as a horn player growing up), the graduate opportunities at UK, his publications and research, and the string teacher shortage!
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David Miller is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at the University of Kentucky, where he teaches undergraduate instrumental music education and graduate research courses. Additionally, he supervises student teachers and oversees the New Horizons band and orchestra groups on campus. As an educator, Dr. Miller has a range of experience teaching orchestra and band in North Carolina, including middle school, high school, summer camps, and youth orchestras. He frequently serves as a guest clinician and adjudicator for orchestras. Additionally, Dr. Miller holds appointments as an Assistant Research Scientist at the University of Maryland Music and Arts Education Data Lab (MADLab) and as a staff researcher at the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center. He has served as a quantitative research consultant and analyst for several grant-funded initiatives addressing topics such as arts educators in the United States and systemic barriers to equity for access to higher education.Dr. Miller is currently serving on the national board of directors for the American String Teachers Association and holds additional professional memberships with the National Association for Music Education, International Society for Music Education, and the American Education Research Association. His research and scholarly interests include equity in music and arts education, teacher labor markets, education policy, music perception and cognition, and creative musicianship in secondary ensemble classrooms. He frequently presents his research at various state, national, and international conferences, and has published his research in the Journal of Research in Music Education, the String Research Journal, and the American String Teacher.When he is not actively involved in teaching, research, or performance, he enjoys spending his leisure time on culinary adventures. An avid baker, cook, eater, and consumer of all things coffee, he welcomes suggestions for restaurants, recipes, and coffee shops. Above all, he enjoys sharing experiences with his spouse, Nicoletta, and their miniature goldendoodle, Clover.
Contact Dr. Miller:
https://finearts.uky.edu/music/faculty-staff/david-s-miller
ds.miller@uky.edu
--
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you.
Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
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
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
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An innovative music educator and accomplished musician, composer, conductor and performer, Ron Castonguay was named Director of the Arts and Music Director at The Frederick Gunn School in 2019. Ron teaches all levels of Vocal Ensemble, String Ensemble, and Concert Jazz Band as well as AP Music Theory and provides private music instruction. He is responsible for the leadership and development of the school’s Visual and Performing Arts programs and champions the growth and integration of the arts and community through the new Thomas S. Perakos Arts and Community Center. As a result of these efforts, the school has developed collaborations and maintains partnerships with local arts organizations, including Pilobolus, Sherman Chamber Ensemble, the Litchfield Jazz Festival and Litchfield Jazz Camp. Prior to his arrival at Gunn, Ron served for 23 years as Department Chair for the Performing Arts and Music Director for grades 9 through 12 at Gulliver Preparatory School in Miami, Florida. There, he created and directed the school's String Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo and Vocal Ensemble. His ensembles performed at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the Strathmore Center for the Performing Arts and other notable venues, and consistently earned top marks at district, state and national music festivals. Ron holds a bachelor's degree in music theory and composition from the University of Miami (Florida). He is a professional saxophonist, experienced conductor and published composer. He conducted the professional run of “Into the Woods” at the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center in Miami in 2015 and performed an alto saxophone solo with the Miami Symphony on Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Ron’s compositions have been performed numerous times and span a wide array of ensemble genres, from instrumental to choral, and in all musical idioms, from classical to contemporary to jazz. His compositions are currently available at JWPepper.com and LeapYearMusic.com. One of his choral works, Trust In The Mercy Of Your God, was debuted by the University of Miami Chorale under the direction of Jo-Michael Scheibe, and a concert of Castonguay's compositions and arrangements were presented at the University of Miami's Gusman Hall in 2009. Most recently, Ron released his new book, "Rhythmic Sight-Reading: The Tik-A Tee Method," on March 15, 2024. It is a 172-page spiral bound method book for any and every ensemble, focusing only on rhythm and time signatures, from basic to advanced, with over 346 practice exercises, all accompanied by over 363 supplemental MP3s. Learn more at https://www.roncastonguay.com/Ron has been, or is currently, an active member of the National Association for Music Education, American String Teachers Association, Connecticut Music Educators’ Association, Jazz Education Network, Florida Orchestra Association, Florida Vocal Association, Florida Bandmasters’ Association, Florida Music Educators’ Association, Florida American String Teachers Association, and the Florida Schools Music Association.As a saxophonist, Ron has released two self-produced CDs of original music in the contemporary jazz genre; 1998’s Subtle Touch and On The Right Track, released in 2008. He is also a studio musician, most recently performing all of the saxophone parts on Kate Nauta’s Holiday LP. Ron’s music is available on Pandora, Spotify, iTunes, and CDBaby. He performs live as a solo artist as well as a member of a jazz duo called Perfect Manhattan, and two jazz/blues/funk bands called Front Burner and The Roxtones.Ron is available as a commissioned composer (any idiom), a guest conductor (any genre), and a professional saxophonist (classical or jazz). Ron resides in Washington, CT, with his wife, Melissa, and their two daughters, Siena and Summer.Contact Ron at: Ron@RonCastonguay.com
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Author of the book, 'Make Great Music with Ease! The Secret to Smarter Practice, Confident Performance, and Living a Happier Life', Jennifer Roig-Francolí is an international award-winning violinist, double-certified Alexander Technique teacher, and creator of The Art of Freedom® Method for conscious living and masterful artistry.
Jennifer’s inspiring online coaching programs for musicians combine her professional experience with a life-long love of meditation and perennial wisdom, providing her students with powerful tools to overcome pain, performance anxiety, and skills limitations.
Honored by TIME Magazine as a "Rising Star", Jennifer has performed as soloist in many of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including multiple solo appearances at Carnegie Hall and with orchestras such as the Pittsburgh and Berlin Symphony Orchestras. She has been the Concertmaster and Associate Concertmaster of multiple ensembles, including the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra and Apollo’s Fire, the Grammy-Award winning Cleveland Baroque Orchestra.
Jennifer has taught the Alexander Technique on the faculty of the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and Xavier University, conducted and published prize-winning medical research on the Alexander Technique for laparoscopic surgeons, and founded two professional associations for Alexander Technique teachers in Ohio. In 2009, she designed and implemented a successful research study for surgeons using laparoscopy and AT at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center which resulted in a prize-winning paper presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics and published by the Journal of Urology.
As a student, Jennifer studied with Dr. Shinichi Suzuki in Japan, Nathan Milstein in Switzerland, David Cerone at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and Josef Gingold at Indiana University.
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
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Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
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This bonus episode contains a few brief, live interviews from the ASTA/SAA Conference in Louisville. March 21-22, 2024.
The ASTA conference this year was absolutely fantastic! There was such a positive vibe and the energy was electric.
The guests on this podcast include:
- Jean Lee from Michigan State University
- Eric McAllister from NV
- Dr. Mark Laycock from Wichita State University
- Amanda Turner from NC
- Erica Hefner from NC
- Jamie Kleinert from MI
- Dr. David Miller from University of Kentucky
- Katie LaBrie of Randall Standridge Music
- Dr. Karin Hendricks, incoming ASTA President
Let me know what you think of the live podcast.
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Ryan Silvestri is in his twelfth year at Wando High School as Director of Orchestras. A native of Boardman, Ohio, Mr. Silvestri earned a bachelor's degree in instrumental music education from Florida State University and a master's degree in violin performance from UNC-Greensboro. He is currently pursuing a doctor of music education degree from Liberty University. Ryan completed his string education studies with the late Dr. Michael Allen, co-author of the Essential Elements for Strings series, as well as Dr. Rebecca MacLeod.As a violinist, Ryan has performed with the Charleston, Greensboro, and Tallahassee Symphonies and also served as Concertmaster of the Brevard Music Center Sinfonia Orchestra. Primary violin teachers include Marjorie Bagley, Corinne Stillwell, Eliot Chapo, and John Wilcox. In addition to teaching at Wando, Ryan served as the inaugural director of the Charleston Symphony Youth Strings from 2019-2022 and as an adjunct professor of strings at Charleston Southern University.Professional associations include NAFME and ASTA. Mr. Silvestri has frequently served as a guest adjudicator and clinician and has published articles in the American String Teacher. Under his direction, the Wando Orchestras have nearly tripled in size and consistently received Superior ratings at SCMEA Concert Festival and other regional competitions. The Wando Honors Orchestra was invited to perform at the SCMEA state conference in 2017 and 2024 and competed in the ASTA National Orchestra Festival in 2018. Ryan lives in Mount Pleasant, SC with his wife who is also a music educator and violinist, and four children.
Mr. Silvestri can be reached at: ryan_silvestri@charleston.k12.sc.us
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
--
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
—
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charles@orchestrateacher.net for more information.
———
Please donate to Charles’ charity!!
Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
-
Funding scientific research
-
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
-
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
-
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:
https://supporting.afsp.org/
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Martha Mooke is a Grammy nominated, pioneering electric violist/composer, highly regarded for her artistry, music advocacy, and innovative educational programs. She transcends musical boundaries, enhancing classical training with extended techniques, technology and improvisation. A Yamaha Artist and Eventide’s first Artist in Residence, Mooke is a leading clinician on electric and multi-style string playing. She has performed with Barbra Streisand, David Bowie, Philip Glass, Elton John, Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, Andrea Bocelli, Star Wars in Concert, and Tony Bennett among others. She is Founder and Artistic Director of the Scorchio Quartet (featured on David Bowie’s Heathen CD) which performs as resident quartet in the Tibet House Benefit Concerts at Carnegie Hall produced by Philip Glass. Her catalog of works include solo, chamber, orchestra, concert band, film and theater with genre-defying recordings Enharmonic Vision, Bowing’s Cafe Mars, and No Ordinary Window, produced by Grammy winning Producer, Cynthia Daniels. Mooke has collaborated with beat boxing legend Rahzel on their critically acclaimed Beats Per Revolution, visual artist Nalini Malani (the Joan Miro prize winner) and software artist Scott Draves. She has been a featured speaker at PopTech, SXSW EDU, NAMM/CMS and numerous podcasts. Her film scoring credits include collaborations with filmmaker and MTV World creator Nusrat Durrani. Mooke received the prestigious ASCAP Concert Music Award for creating and producing ASCAP's new music showcase THRU THE WALLS featuring boundary defying composer/performers. She is a former Governor of the New York Chapter of the Recording Academy serving on the Grammy in the Schools and Advocacy Committees. She is on the Executive Committee of the Composer Diversity Project, and Advisory Board of Composers Now. Mooke created and directs the cutting edge, Multi-Style Strings program at New Jersey City University.
Ms. Mooke can be reached via her website at http://www.marthamooke.com
To purchase publications, visit https://smd.subitomusic.com/MarthaMooke
Rhythms of Reggaeton, Inspired by Gente de Zona's "La Gozadera” Conceived and Arranged for Strings by Martha Mooke To purchase score only: https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/product/la-gozadera-score-only-22587323.html
For inquiries about parts and coaching/performance packages with Martha Mooke:
https://www.paperlesspost.com/go/NoeQnrgf5BLKLWi3JK0R9
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Your support is appreciated!If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/supportThank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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Ms. Billings-White is honored to be one of four the strings specialists in the Lexington Public Schools. She is currently the only itinerant teacher at the elementary schools, both middle schools and high School. Ms. Billings-White is an active director, strings teacher and performer in the Greater Boston area. She earned a Bachelors degree of Music in Cello Performance from McGill University and a Master's degree of Music in Cello Performance, Graduate Performance Diploma in String Performance, and a Master's degree of Music in Music Education from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Ms. Billings-White is a member of NAfME, the National Association for Music Education; ASTA (the American String Teachers Association; and MA-ASTA, the Massachusetts Chapter of the American String Teachers Association where she is now past President, Secretary and webmaster. She started her teaching career as a K-5 general music teacher in the New Bedford public school district. After that, she started her full time strings teaching career in the Ipswich Public Schools teaching students grades 5-12 and directing their orchestra ensembles. Additionally, Ms. Billings-White is on the Faculty in the Music Education Department at the Longy School of Music of Bard College where she teaches a Strings Method II class. Her musical background also included Trumpet and French Horn during her middle and high school years in Update New York. Other interests include sight-reading parties, musical theater gigs, going on adventures with her husband and three children, making sure her two French Bulldogs (Bear and Bianca) are not tearing up the house, enjoying chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream whenever possible and indoor rock climbing at Central Rock Gyms all over Massachusetts.
jbillingswhite@lexingtonma.org
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A graduate of Butler University in 2002, Heather Nieto is in her twenty-first year as a music educator. She started her career at Belzer Middle School in Lawrence Township, Indianapolis, Indiana, where she taught elementary and junior high string orchestra for eighteen years. Heather also served as the Belzer Middle School Performing Arts Department Chair and Lawrence Central High School Assistant Orchestra Director. During her time in Lawrence, Heather sat on various committees including the Performing Arts Curriculum Redesign, Equity and Access Committee, and the Lawrence Township Performing Arts Council. While always looking to expand performance opportunities for her students, Heather co-founded the Lawrence Township Honor Orchestra performing at Disney World and the Belzer PopZ Orchestra performing for various school games and community events. Her groups have been invited to perform for the ASTA National Orchestra Festival as well as IMEA Honor Orchestra Ensembles. Additionally, Heather was named the Belzer Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2018 and recognized in four different years by Top 30 Seniors as an honored educator.
The 2023-2024 school year marks Heather’s third year as the Director of Orchestras for Hamilton Southeastern High School. In just a few short years, Heather has worked with Associate Director, Charles Kunz to create a culture that promotes respect, fosters pride, and inspires excellence with the Southeastern orchestras. During her first year she led the Southeastern Symphony Orchestra to ISSMA State Finals for the first time in the history of the program and she continues to hold the program to a high standard of performance.
Volunteering her time beyond the classroom, Heather has spent time working with DePauw University as a part of their Unit Assessment System Review Committee in addition to their Music and Teacher Education Program. She has presented sessions at DePauw, IMEA, and INASTA and was a featured clinician for the String Teacher Workshop at the Luebke String Festival in 2019.
Heather currently serves as President for the Indiana chapter of the American String Teachers Association, where she works to support orchestra directors across the state of Indiana. During her time with INASTA Heather has continued to grow the chapter and event opportunities for its members. She continues to advocate for string education and maintains a focus on creating opportunities for members to communicate, collaborate and support one another.
Heather currently lives in Noblesville with her husband, Victor, two children, Sophia (13) and Ivan (9) and their dog, Hachi.
hnieto@hse.k12.in.us
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Adrian Gordon is an internationally performed composer and seasoned music educator. In addition to teaching, Mr. Gordon is a composer with Alfred Music as well as the founder of Leap Year Music Publishing, which publishes string music for elementary, middle, and high school ensembles. His compositions appear on the California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, and Texas Orchestra Association Music Performance Reading Lists. He is also the author of the book Note to Self; A Music Director’s Guide for Transitioning to a New School and Building a Thriving Music Program.Adrian received his B.A. in music from the University of Miami, and his master’s degree in music education at Florida International University. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Adrian currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with his wife and their two sons and serves as the Director of Orchestras at Providence Day School. Mr. Gordon can be reached via his website at https://www.adriangordonmusic.com/
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The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Dr. Rachel Dirks (Ep. 64)Dr. Rachel Dirks, Director of Orchestral Studies at Kansas State University, is an active conductor, clinician, researcher, and teacher. In addition to her work with the K-State Symphony Orchestra, she teaches graduate and undergraduate string education and conducting courses, and applied cello. She has collaborated with orchestras throughout the United States, most recently in New York, Georgia, Hawaii, and Minnesota. As a featured clinician and educator, she has presented her research for numerous music education conferences within the United States and Europe. A Kansas native, Dr. Dirks holds cello performance degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and Bethel College, and a Ph.D. in music education, with an emphasis in orchestral conducting, from the University of Kansas. Her current research surrounding the mental wellbeing of music students and teachers is published in numerous books, periodicals, and online resources. She also serves as the current chair of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Health and Wellness Committee. Throughout her experiences as a conductor and educator, her fundamental goal is to encourage musicians to seek and create community through music. You can contact Dr. Dirks at rdirks@ksu.edu.--For orchestra teacher resources and more information visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net--Your support is appreciated!If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/supportThank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.netYouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacherPodcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacherPodcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0zPodcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNzPodcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262—Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.———Please donate to Charles’ charity!!Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: Funding scientific research Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
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Rosie Riquelme Antunez, Director of Orchestras at Decatur High School, received her Bachelors of Music Education degree from Georgia College and State University where she was a student of Dr. Daniel Kaplunas. Rosie received her Masters of Music Education from the University of West Georgia through their online program and continued her own violin studies with Curtis Institute Alumni, Mrs. Valerie Gardner in Winder, GA. In 2019, Rosie became a Level 1 & Level 2 Google Certified Educator. Rosie received her Specialist Degree in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University in May 2021.Rosie regularly serves as a guest clinician for various honor orchestras and schools around metro Atlanta, and has served as one of the counselors for the Encore! Summer Music Camp and the Atlanta Chamber Music Festival. This school year is Rosie’s thirteenth year teaching orchestra and first year at Decatur High School. While teaching at Collins Hill (2011-2023), all orchestras consistently received straight superior ratings at the annual Large Group Performance Evaluation. In addition to earning straight super ratings, the Collins Hill Chamber Orchestra also regularly received perfect scores at LGPE. In 2016 the Collins Hill High School Chamber Orchestra was selected to perform at the national ASTA conference, and in 2017 was selected to perform at the Georgia Music Educators Association conference. Rosie has also been presenting regularly over the last two years on instructional uses for technology in the classroom. She presented at the Gwinnett Digital Learning Conference in June 2019, GMEA in January 2020, the GA-ASTA conference in September 2020, among other local professional developments in her school and county.As a violinist, she has performed with various groups including the Georgia Philharmonic, Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra, Gwinnett County Chamber Orchestra, and the Georgia Symphony Orchestra. Rosie has had the honor or performing with various performing artists including Josh Groban, Michael Buble, Disturbed, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Ashanti Floyd otherwise known as “The Mad Violinist”. Currently, she regularly performs with the Emerald Empire Band playing for various events around Atlanta.Rosie currently resides in Atlanta, GA with her husband, Jorge. She was born in Venezuela. She enjoys salsa dancing, traveling, paddle boarding, and spending time with her cats.Website: https://sites.google.com/view/dhsorchestra/homeCheckmark Assessment Spreadsheet Template:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/19woIt7qesTwIZjaOHtfhWeouMH10SNhSgZG6iuQj_kA/copy(will allow you to save your own copy!)Your support is appreciated!If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/supportThank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.--Please donate to Charles’ charity!!Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: Funding scientific research Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission Donate here:https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=2833292
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Jean Lee is the Instructor and Coordinator of String Music Education at the Michigan State University College of Music. She teaches string pedagogy and string methods courses while growing the string music education program through student recruitment and retention outreach programs. Lee is well-known throughout the Midwest as an accomplished clinician, conductor, Suzuki violin teacher, and adjudicator. She brings nearly two decades of experience to her role within the University along with a unique skill set as an entrepreneur and brand strategist. Whether in the classroom, leading an orchestra, or working one-on-one with students, Lee loves connecting with young musicians to help them develop their talents and see their potential through music education.
Lee is a proud graduate of Michigan State University where as an undergraduate, she studied violin with I-Fu Wang and piano with Deborah Moriarty. She graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Music Education before also pursuing her graduate studies in Music Education at the University of Michigan.
Before joining the university’s faculty, Lee taught music for fourteen years in the Okemos Public Schools, a district renowned for having one of the state’s strongest orchestra programs. Throughout her career, Lee has led orchestras of varying age groups—from elementary strings to university-level musicians. She also directed orchestras at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Twin Lakes, Michigan; the Michigan Chapter of the American Strings Teachers Association String Camp in Howell, Michigan; and the New England Music Camp in Sidney, Maine. She is an active member of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association, the American String Teachers Association, and the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
In addition to applying her expertise as a strings educator and orchestra director, Lee is actively developing new strategies and outreach programs to attract string musicians to careers in music education.
Contact Ms. Lee at leejean@msu.edu or visit her website at https://www.music.msu.edu/faculty/profile/jean or on Instagram
Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
I hope everyone is having a great back to school season! I know it's a crazy busy time for everyone with assigning instruments, open house, parent meetings, and more.
I'm looking to compile a back to school checklist and would love your feedback. What's on your back to school list?? Reach out to me at charles@orchestrateacher.net and let me know your essential "to do's!"
Future guests include Jean Lee from Michigan State University, Rosie Riquelme Antunez, from Decatur High School in Georgia.
If you have a guest you'd like to see on the OTP or if you'd like to be on the show, please let me know!
Please donate to Charles’ charity!!
Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
-
Funding scientific research
-
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
-
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
-
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraiser and donate here:
https://supporting.afsp.org/participant/2833292
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Anne Marie Patterson (Ep. 61) Anne Marie Patterson is the Orchestra Director at Robert Frost Middle School in Fairfax, VA. She has been a private teacher and freelance violinist in the Washington, DC area for over 25 years, and has taught all levels of school orchestra in Charles County, MD. She directed the Charles County Youth Orchestra and Encore Strings. and is the recipient of the 2018 Outstanding Music Teacher Award from the Maryland Music Educators Association.
Anne Marie received Master’s Degrees in both Music Education and Music Performance from Florida State University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance from Washington and Lee University. She has served as President of the MD/DC Chapter of the American String Teachers Association, and is a frequent presenter at the national ASTA conference. She has also presented sessions at The Midwest Clinic, NAfME, MMEA, UMEA and VMEA.
Anne Marie is the author of Basic String Technique: A Practical Guide to String Instruction, published by Kendor Music. She is also a contributing author for Rehearsing the Middle School Orchestra by Sandy Goldie. Her instructional videos and materials may be found on her website, https://www.stringsintheclassroom.com.
-- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
—
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charles@orchestrateacher.net for more information.
———
Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:
https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Katie Eakes (Ep. 60)Katie Eakes is Alaskan native musician and educator. She recently completed her 17th year teaching in the Anchorage School District. She is a graduate of East High School in Anchorage and Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where she received a bachelors degree in music education. At TTU, Mrs. Eakes was a part of the Texas Tech String Project pre-teaching program and specializes in working with first, second, and third year string students.
In addition to teaching, Mrs. Eakes is an active performer on Double Bass. While in Texas, she was tenured member of the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra. In Alaska she has served as a member of of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra for 17 years, currently serving as Assistant Principal Double Bass, and performs with the Anchorage Opera where she serves as Principal Double Bass.
Her leadership roles include serving as the Elective Department Chair, and the Co-Founder and Coordinator for the School Showcase. Mrs. Eakes also has a private bass studio, plays bass guitar with a reunion band, and serves as a studio and remote recording musician. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, her dogs, and her plants, and focusing on physical fitness.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/@katiepidgeoneakes1788
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Michael Boitz (Ep. 59)Michael Boitz is Director of Orchestra and Band at Saratoga High School, Saratoga, CA, where he is serving in his 24th year, 20 years of which he served as Visual and Performing Arts Chair. After starting out as the single Instrumental Music Director at Saratoga HS in 1998 with a small number of students participating in just two ensembles, the Saratoga High School Instrumental Music Ensembles have developed a reputation for excellence at the state, national, and international level under his leadership, and include nearly 40% of the school’s student body. While the Saratoga HS program now has multiple Directors, Michael continues to work with both Orchestra’s and Bands as he committed to doing so upon his arrival in 1998 to help in keeping all aspects of Saratoga’s Music Department vibrant. Jason Shiuan, the schools current Department Chair, is an alum of the Saratoga HS Music Department, as are both of the feeder middle school Directors, Jonathan Jow and Isabel McPherson.
Michael has led Saratoga HS on concert tours to Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Australia. International festivals have included the WASBE (World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles) Conference in Utrecht, NL, the World Music Contest in Kerkrade, NL, the Mid-Europe Music Festival in Schladming, AT, the Jungfrau Music Festival in Interlachen, CH, and twice at the former Vienna Youth in Music Festival in Vienna, AT. The advanced orchestra at Saratoga High School, Saratoga Strings, has performed twice at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago (2014, 2018), as well as state and regional conferences on multiple occasions. The Saratoga High School Marching Band has performed at both the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (2012), and the Tournament of Roses Parade (2016), along with multiple Bands of America Regional Championships.
Michael has been awarded both the CMEA (California Music Educators Association) Band Educator of the year and the Richard R. Levin Orchestra Educator of the Year. He has been named Teacher-of-the-Year by the Los Gatos-Saratoga High School District, the CMEA Bay Section Gilbert T. Freitas Award for Excellence in Music Education, and has been inducted into the John Phillip Sousa Legion of Honor. Michael has also personally been awarded Honorary Commendations from the City of Saratoga, as well as the Band Program and Orchestra Program have both been awarded Honorary Commendations from the City of Saratoga on multiple occasions.
Michael completed undergraduate and graduate studies at Concordia College (BA) in Moorhead Minnesota and Northwestern University (MA) in Evanston, IL, respectively. His teachers and mentors of greatest influence have included Mallory Thompson, Russell Pesola, J. Robert Hanson, Frank Bencriscutto, Lawrence Sutherland, Ed Huttlin, John Lace, Mike Hiatt, Gordon Nilsen, and Peter Dahlstrom. Michael Boitz was born and raised in Anoka, MN, and is a proud graduate of Anoka High School.
Email: mboitz@lgsuhsd.org
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Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
The Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Corie Benton (Ep. 58)
Corie Benton is the orchestra director at Pope High School in Cobb County, Georgia. Mrs. Benton received her bachelor’s degree in music education from Loyola University in New Orleans. After graduating from Loyola, she began her teaching career in Plano, Texas, moving to Georgia in 2000.
Mrs. Benton is an active member of both GMEA and ASTA. Throughout her career, she has presented a workshop at the GMEA In-Service Conference (2013); performed at the GMEA In-Service Conference and had students perform (2015 and 2019); and competed in ASTA’s National Orchestra Festival (2018). She is a regularly requested adjudicator at workshops, clinics, honor orchestras, and LGPEs in metro Atlanta. Corie is a member of MENC, GMEA, and the past-president of the Georgia chapter of ASTA.
Although teaching is her passion, Corie enjoys being with her husband and two sons.
https://popeorchestra.net/
corie.benton@cobbk12.org
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
—
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
———
Please donate to Charles’ charity!!
Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
-
Funding scientific research
-
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
-
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
-
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:
https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Dr. Rebecca MacLeod is Professor of Music Education at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she directs the string education program and conducts the UNCG Sinfonia. She is the author of Teaching Strings in Today’s Classroom and is published in Journal of Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, Bulletin for the Council of Research in Music Education, Update: Applications of Research in Music Education, Journal of Music Teacher Education, String Research Journal, Psychology of Music, The Strad, American String Teachers Journal, and various state music education journals. She has served on the editorial boards of the Journal of Research in Music Education, the String Research Journal, and as guest reviewer for the International Journal of Research in Music Education. She is the recipient of the UNCG School of Music, Theatre and Dance Outstanding Teaching Award, the American String Teacher Association National Researcher Award, and the UNCG Junior Research Excellence Award.
A passionate advocate for increasing access to string education to all students, Dr. MacLeod directs two community partnership programs that provide string instruction to underserved students: the Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program and the Peck Alumni Leadership Program. Students of these programs have performed for Dr. Maya Angelou, Dr. Gloria Ladsen-Billings, and the Sphinx Virtuosi. Her research on working with underserved populations, vibrato technique, music teacher education, and music perception has been presented at the International Conference of Music Perception and Cognition (Thessoloniki, Greece), Music Research and Human Behavior International Conference (Barcelona, Spain), International Society for Music Education (Glasgow, Scotland), Music Educators National Conference, National Association for Music Education National Conference, American String Teachers National Conference, Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Society for Music Teacher Education, and music educators state conferences.
Prior to joining the UNCG faculty, she taught elementary, middle, and high school orchestra in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania and was orchestra director and chair of music activities in Beaver, Pennsylvania. She was the assistant artistic director and conductor of the Tallahassee Symphony Youth Chamber Orchestra and Philharmonia Orchestra in Tallahassee, Florida. She has served on the American String Teachers Association National Board and is past president of the North Carolina ASTA chapter. She was a guest lecturer at Xi’an University and Shaoguan University (China) in summer 2016 and 2017.
Dr. MacLeod received her undergraduate degree from Duquesne University and her MME and PhD from Florida State University. She is a frequent guest conductor and clinician throughout the United States and abroad.
https://teachingstrings.online https://vpa.uncg.edu/home/directory/bio-rebeccamacleod/
Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Adam Gresham is a music educator and percussionist from Marietta, GA. He just finished his seventh year of teaching, and his first year as the Director of Orchestras at Barber Middle School in Acworth, GA. Prior to this position, he served as the Director of Bands at Richards Middle School in Lawrenceville, GA. Mr. Gresham has also served as the Associate Director of Bands/Director of Percussion/Music Technology Coordinator at Norcross High School in Norcross, GA, and Associate Director of Bands/Director of Percussion at Central High School and Middle School in Carrollton, GA. As an active clinician, he is a consistent guest working with middle and high school percussion ensembles and bands across the southeastern United States.
Mr. Gresham holds a Bachelors degree in instrumental Music Education from Georgia State University and a Masters degree in Music Education from American Band College of Central Washington University. He is currently working on his Education Specialist degree at Auburn University.
Mr. Gresham is a member of the National Association for Music Educators (NAfME), Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA), National Band Association (NBA), Percussive Arts Society (PAS), and the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE). He currently lives in Marietta, GA, with his wife, Megan, and his two French bulldogs, Toaster and Mikey.
-- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
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Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
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Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:
https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Katie O’Hara LaBrie is a composer, conductor, clinician, and cellist from Northern Virginia and is the new Orchestra Editor for Randall Standridge Music Publications. An educator at heart, Mrs. LaBrie spent the first 15 years of her career teaching orchestra in Fairfax County, Virginia. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from St. Olaf College, where she studied under Steven Amundson, and Masters of Music in Instrumental Conducting from George Mason University, where she studied with Anthony Maiello.
As a composer, Mrs. LaBrie’s inspiration grows from many sources such as family and nature, but primarily draws from her experiences as a music educator. She enjoys creating new music with the goal of being educationally sound, pleasing to audiences, and above all, fun for the players. She is passionate about sharing music with others and teaching students how to practice with purpose.
Mrs. LaBrie’s compositions for string orchestra and concert band have received many accolades including frequent selection as J.W. Pepper Editor’s Choice, as well as performances at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic and American String Teachers Association Conference. In 2022, she was honored as one of Yamaha’s “40 Under 40,” for her action, courage, creativity, and commitment to growth in the music education field.
Mrs. LaBrie is the founding conductor of the Fairfax Chamber Players, and co-creator of “the Big IDEA” practice method. She lives in Fairfax, VA with her husband Joe, who is a middle school band director, and their budding musician, Liam.
Links: https://www.katieoharalabrie.comhttps://practicewithpurpose.net
-- Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast! Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
—
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers? Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
———
Please donate to Charles’ charity!! Charles is a supporter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraisers and donate here:
https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
[TRAILER] The Orchestra Teacher Podcast - June 12, 2023 Alaska trip #2 wrap up
Check out the new The Orchestra Teacher Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/TheOrchestraTeacher
Upcoming podcast guests: • Katie O'Hare LaBrie - Wednesay, June 14, 10:00 AM (Ep. 55) • Adam Gresham - Thursday, June 15, 11:00 AM (Ep. 56) • Dr. Rebecca MacLeod - Thursday, June 15, 1:00 PM (Ep. 57)
Thanks for your support!
-- Donate to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://www.theovernight.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=44899
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Dr. Catherine Hudnall received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of music, her Master’s degree from Georgia State University, and her Doctoral degree from Mercer University. Currently she is the Orchestra Director at Norcross High School and is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra. She was the teacher of the year at Norcross High School and received the American String Teachers Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Hudnall is a regular conductor and clinician for honor ensembles throughout the state, was the conductor of the SC All-State Orchestra in 2002, the Mississippi All-State Orchestra in 2005, and has been invited to conduct the California All-State Orchestra in 2021. She served as an adjudicator for the National ASTA Orchestra Festival in 2019. Her students have been invited to perform for the Georgia State Music Educators conference in 1995, 2006, and 2009. She was a guest conductor of the Gwinnett Philharmonic Orchestra in 2004, 2006, and 2007, and she co-directed the Gwinnett County Youth Symphony for six years. In 2006, the Norcross High School Philharmonic Orchestra won the National Championship High School String Orchestra Award at the American String Teachers Association conference in Kansas City. Three of her ensembles have been selected to perform at Carnegie Hall. Dr. Hudnall is a member of the National Music Educators Association, the Conductors Guild, the Performing Arts Medical Association, and the American String Teachers Association. She served as state president of the Georgia ASTA chapter. Dr. Hudnall studied cello with Hans Schmettau and Martha Gerschefski. As a professional cellist, she has performed with the Gwinnett Philharmonic Orchestra, the Georgia Women’s Symphony, the 1st International Cello Congress Choir, the Maui Symphony, the Florence Symphony, the Columbia Philharmonic Orchestra, the Charleston Symphony, the Augusta Symphony, the Spartanburg Symphony, the Gainesville Symphony, and the Brevard Music Center Festival Orchestra. She is a member of the Candler String Quartet, is an active consultant and teacher of Healthy Musicianship, and teaches private cello lessons in her home.
Dr. Hudnall can be contacted at cathiehudnall@gmail.com
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Greg Jackson is the Director of Orchestras at South Cobb High School in Austell, Georgia, outside of Atlanta. He is currently on staff at Southwind Drum & Bugle Corps as an Ensemble Specialist. From 2017 until 2020 Dr. Jackson was Director of Bands at Saint James School. He was the Associate Professor of Percussion studies at Alabama State University for ten years. He received the Bachelor of Science degree in Performance, Specialization in Music Composition from Austin Peay State University, the Master of Music degree in Music Theory/Composition from The University of Alabama, the Master of Music Education with emphasis in Conducting from the University of Georgia, a Cerrtificat in Advanced Graduate Studies in Orchestral Conducting, and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Percussion Performance at the University of Alabama.
Greg is the Vice-Chair of the Mentoring Committee for American String Teachers Association. Several of his compositions were premiered at the ASTA National Conference in 2022. Although his primary performing instrument now is violin, Jackson had a long career as a percussionist. In the Percussive Arts Society International Collegiate Snare Competition, he placed in the top 10 four consecutive years and top 4 two years. He has also been associated as a consultant with four Drum Corps International Individuals champions and 1 PASIC Individuals champion.
Greg has performed with numerous artists including Tito Puente Jr., Sō Percussion, Son Caliente, Nancy Zeltsman, Michael Burritt, Tomas Cruz, Sandip Burman, Bob Mintzer of the Yellow Jackets, Tom Wolfe, Ken Watters, Skyler Foster, and Downright. He is also the author of Mephisto's Spree Op. 84, Etudes Op. 56, The Synergy Method for Drumming volumes 1 and 2, The Synergy Method for Marimba, Phenom: Excellence of Execution, Pandora, Legendary Op. 44, The Well-Tempered Marimbist Op. 46, Etudes Op. 48, Jackson's Rudiment Dictionary and Congas Full Circle. His marimba solo, Requiem for 9/11 Op. 45, received a special acknowledgement from President Obama.
Jackson travels across the country presenting clinics/masterclasses and conducting, in addition to composing. He is a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association, International Conductors Guild, American String Teachers Association, National Association for Music Education, National Band Association, Alabama Bandmasters Association, Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc., Collegiate Society of Musicians, Percussive Arts Society, Society of Composers Inc., BMI, and Bujinkan.
Greg proudly endorses Remo Inc., Innovative Percussion, Pearl Percussion and Adams.
https://inner3.com/
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
TRAILER EPISODE:
- Wrapping up the school year
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Upcoming Episodes
Michigan String Educators Workshop
Ann Arbor, MI
Dr. Michael Hopkins with Special Guest Dr. Frank Diaz
Thursday, June 22-Saturday, June 24, 2023
https://smtd.umich.edu/engagement-outreach/adult-programs/string-educators-workshop/
Habits Institute
Charleston, SC
July 5-9
Dr. Christopher Selby & Margaret Selby
https://habitsuniversal.com/habitsinstitute/
Ohio State String Teachers Workshop
Columbus, OH
July 9 – 15, 2023
Dr. Bob Gillespie and many other educators - Celebrating 38 years!
https://music.osu.edu/outreach/osu-stw
ASTA Virtual Summit
July 17-18
https://www.astastrings.org/Web/National_Conference__NOF____Summit/Virtual_String_Teachers_Summit/Summit/2023_Summit_Call_for_Session_and_Research_Poster_Proposals.aspx?hkey=4a9e8ba1-f98d-44f5-b3bd-fc0f96cdc2a6
Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, streamed live in The Orchestra Teacher Studio!
May 31, 2023
- 11:00 AM - Dr. Gregory Jackson, South Cobb High School (Ep. 53)
- 1:00 PM - Dr. Cathie Hudnall, North Gwinnett Middle School & Artistic Director, Metropolitan Youth Symphony of Atlanta (Ep. 54)
Week of June 10
- Katie LaBrie - educator, composer
- Dr. Rebecca McLeod - ASTA President; Professor of Music Education, University of North Carolina-Greensboro
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Michael Hopkins is professor and chair of Music Education at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he teaches courses in string techniques, orchestra methods, research methods, and the psychology of music. He has been a guest conductor at over 100 orchestra festivals and clinics throughout the United States, and has given over 60 presentations at national, international, and state music education conferences on various topics in string education and music technology. He is very active as a composer and arranger, and has composed and arranged over 70 published works for orchestra. His music is published by Alfred Music Publishing, Grand Mesa Music, Kendor Music Publishing, Inc., and J.W. Pepper’s MyScore. His works have been commissioned by many schools and ensembles throughout the U.S.He is the author of The Art of String Teaching, a comprehensive string pedagogy resource for pre-service teachers, professional orchestra conductors, teachers of group string classes, and private studio teachers. The Art of String Teaching has a complementary YouTube channel, a pedagogical resource with over 100 videos demonstrating all aspects of string technique.Hopkins has published articles in the Journal of Research in Music Education, International Journal of Music Education, CRME Bulletin, Music Education Research, Journal of Music, Technology and Education, American String Teacher, String Research Journal, the Music Educators’ Journal, and The Instrumentalist.Hopkins is the director of the Michigan String Educators Workshop and the U-M Bass Bash Festival. He serves on the board of the Michigan Chapter of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), and has served on several national committees, including the Collegiate Committee and the Research Committee.Contact Dr. Hopkins: mhopkins@umich.eduLINKS:The Art of String Teaching Book at GIAhttps://www.giamusic.com/store/resource/the-art-of-string-teaching-book-g9735YouTube String Technique Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/user/stringtechniqueList of compositions at JW Pepperhttps://www.jwpepper.com/myscore/hopkinsMichigan String Educators Workshophttps://smtd.umich.edu/string-workshop
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orchestrateacher/support
Listen to the live broadcast on with Special Guest Dr. Michael Hopkins, Chair of Music Education and Professor of Music at the University of Michigan.
We will air the video streaming live on YouTube and Facebook on Sunday, April 2 at 10:00 AM EST. An audio only version will also be available on the podcast.
www.OrchestraTeacher.net
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David Metrio is the orchestra director at North Gwinnett High School in Georgia. We discuss the Midwest Clinic, his career and development and his preparations for a performance at the 2023 Georgia Music Educators Conference in January.
This episode is sponsored by Eastman Strings. Please visit https://www.eastmanstrings.com for more information.
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Grace Law is the owner of SmartStringTeacher.com. This site offers great string pedagogy courses for teachers from the comfort of their own home. The site allows teachers to:
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Learn simple strategies that are quick and successful.
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Use teaching materials that help your students think smarter and independently so they progress faster.
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Introduce advanced skills sooner.
Be sure to visit https://www.smartstringteacher.com for more information.
All of the podcasts and videos in December 2022 are proudly sponsored by @Eastman-strings . Please check them out at https://www.eastmanstrings.com
--
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Jason talks about his work at Eastman and beyond and we show off a few incredible products from the Eastman Strings line, including the Eastman+ that incorporates a nearly-invisible electric pick-up system. Also featured are the double basses with the Eastman E-String extension.
VIDEO available at: https://youtu.be/CX5xurJlVSU
Guest Bio:
Jason Heath is an active performer, writer, blogger and teacher who is known for his podcast Contrabass Conversations, devoted to exploring music and ideas associated with the double bass. His podcast and blog are highly regarded in the music world, and he truly is the voice of the double bass world with hundreds of podcast episodes interviewing some incredible bassists. He is also author of two publications including the guide ‘Winning the Audition’. As an experienced teacher, Jason has taught double bass at DePaul University and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. His former students hold positions at orchestras around the world, including at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Baltimore Symphony, and the Philharmonie Sudwestfalen. As a performer, Jason has played with Elgin Symphony Orchestra for 16 seasons and with the Midsummer’s music festival in Door County for over a decade. Jason also serves on the Board of Directors for the International Society of Bassists and is the Double Bass Product manager at Eastman Strings. In 2020, Jason Heath filmed two courses with Discover Double Bass aimed at classical beginners and intermediate players, compiling his many years of experience teaching thousands of students.
All of the podcasts and videos in December are proudly sponsored by @Eastman-strings . Please check them out at https://www.eastmanstrings.com
--
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
This episode features a wrap-up of my 2022 Midwest Clinic experience. It contains a few short interviews with these educators:
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Amos Liu, orchestra director at River Trail Middle School in Fulton County, Georgia
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Adrian Gordon, composer, author, and orchestra director in North Carolina (Check out https://www.adriangordonmusic.com)
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Creston Herron, director of fine arts in Klein, Texas
In addition there are three related videos/podcasts available separately with:
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Jason Heath, Eastman Strings
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Grace Law, SmartStringTeacher.com
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David Metrio, North Gwinnett High School Orchestra
It was a spectacular conference and I really enjoyed seeing my friends, meeting some new ones, and attending the incredible concerts and sessions. Midwest is always an inspiring time and a way to get energized and excited about the future.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
46. Cello Email Scam EXPOSED! (Audio Only)
If you would like to watch the video of episode you can find it here: https://youtu.be/p3-YEcYFRQc
This episode tells my most recent encounter with an email scam involving a "free" cello. I hope it will be entertaining and informative! When in doubt, don't click on links in emails or make arrangements for deals that are too good to be true. It's probably a scam! This scam involved offering a "free" cello where the victim pays for shipping via Venmo, CashApp, or Zelle, but never receives the cello. The scammer specifically asks for "friends and family" Venmo which removes purchase protection. In addition, the scammer acts as both the shipping company and the person giving away the cello, using two email addresses.
Download this a helpful document on how to avoid scams from the CISA (The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency). Be safe, everyone!
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
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Product Promotion:
I’ve been using this new budgeting app called YouNeedABudget (YNAB for short) and it is a game changer! I have never felt so in control of my money and so excited about the future. Sign-up for YNAB and then we can nerd out together! Sign up for a free 7 day trial at:
tinyurl.com/youneedabudgetnow
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
47. 2022 Midwest Clinic Trailer
This episode is a short trailer to let you know about upcoming podcast episodes that will be recorded live from the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. I'm looking forward to hearing some amazing orchestras and learning at the clinics. https://www.midwestclinic.org
If you will be attending the Midwest Clinic and would like to be a guest on The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please contact me at Charles@OrchestraTeacher.net
I hope to see you there!
This episode is sponsored by Eastman Strings.
By the time an Eastman instrument reaches the player, dozens of expert craftspeople have had a hand in bringing it to the peak of its sound, playability, and beauty.
*The Eastman workshop operates in precisely the same manner as late 19th century European workshops. Chisels, knives, and scrapers, in the hands of outstandingly gifted craftspeople, are the primary tools used to create these modern instruments.
These techniques impart each model with a beautiful voice and appearance that can only be achieved by hand. As in the shops of master luthiers for the past five hundred years, Eastman honors this tradition everyday.*
You can learn more and find a dealer near you at eastmanstrings.com
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Happy Thanksgiving weekend, everyone! I'm very thankful for my friends and family and for all of you who support the work I do on The Orchestra Teacher website, YouTube channel, and podcast.
I hope you've had a restful break and are looking forward to your December break as well. Thanks for listening!
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Episode 44. Teaching adult beginners online with Rachael RidgeStreamed live on Facebook and YouTube on November 21, 2022
Rachael Ridge is a violinist and former school orchestra teacher turned stay-at-home mom and private lesson teacher. She recently launched The Adult Violin Academy which offers online courses for adult violin beginners. When not playing violin or teaching, she enjoys working out, cooking, and taking care of her two boys. Rachel can be reached at: hello@rachaelridge.com, via her website at https://www.rachaelridge.com, or on Instagram as rachael.ridge Visit https://www.orchestrateacher.net for resources and additional information.
Your support is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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This episode is a mobile podcast in the form of a car conversation with my friend and partner in crime, Mr. David Eccles. We candidly discuss a variety of topics as we travel from Atlanta to Greenville, SC to conduct their SCMEA Region 2 orchestras. Hope you will enjoy!
About our guest...
David F. Eccles is a native of Norfolk, Virginia. He currently serves as Orchestra Program and Upper School Orchestra Director at The Lovett School in Atlanta, Georgia. For over a decade, he was the Director of String Music Education and Orchestral Activities at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. He has held string education positions in Georgia, Virginia, and Florida. An active clinician, adjudicator, conductor, and cellist, Eccles has served as music director and principal conductor for numerous youth orchestras. He has also served as a guest conductor for many state, county, regional, and community orchestras.
Mr. Eccles has presented education sessions at several local, state, and international conferences, including The Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic & Conference, American String Teachers Association Conference, Texas, Ohio, Illinois, New Jersey, and Florida Music Educators Conferences. Mr. Eccles is a clinician and consulting author for the Hal Leonard Corporation. Additionally, he is a featured string educator in the book, Rehearsing the High School Orchestra.
He holds advanced degrees in Music Education from Florida State University and University of Miami (Florida) and a Bachelor of Music and Media from Norfolk State University. His principal teachers include Elizabeth Eccles, Laurien Laufman, Ross Harbaugh, and Dr. Michael Allen.
David is a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association, National Association for Music Education, Phi Mu Alpha, Phi Kappa Lambda, and the Georgia Chapter of American String Teachers Association. He also serves on the national board of the American String Teachers Association.
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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42. Building rapport and fostering positive relationships with students. Interviews with Lisa Loucks, Stephan Labelle, Katie VanDenBerghe, and Jami Kleinert. These teachers share their unique experiences and strategies for building rapport and positive relationships with students that allow for higher quality teaching, student engagement, and a stronger sense of community.
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Lisa (Hopko) Loucks is in her twenty-fifth year as Orchestra Director in Orange County Public Schools Her orchestras have consistently earned superior ratings in the Florida Orchestra Association Music Performance Assessments, and have performed in Atlanta, Chicago, and New York. Originally from Chicago, Lisa grew up on the west coast of the florida and is a graduate Manatee High School under the direction of Jim Palmer. She then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from UCF, where her teachers included John Whitney, Lee Eubank, and Dr. Ayako Yonetani. She has served as FOA 7-8 All State Orchestra Chair, District Chair for Orange County, and is a certified adjudicator of Music Performance Assessments. She had the honor of conducting All-County Orchestras throughout the state, and has served on the Board of Directors for the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra. She has been a summer faculty member for both the Florida West Coast Symphony and UCF String Workshop. She has also been an adjunct professor at Stetson University, as instructor of their Secondary String Methods course.
Stephan Labelle is the Orchestra and Guitar Director at Wekiva High School in the Orange County Public Schools in Central Florida. Stephan holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Delaware. He has directed orchestra, guitar, and keyboard programs in the Cranford Public Schools and Rahway Public Schools in NJ. He has performed as a soloist as well as with various ensembles such as the Blue Hen String Quartet and the Lieto String Quartet in Pennsylvania as well as many outside organizations. He also teaches privately throughout Orange County.
Katie VanDenBerghe is in her eleventh year as a music teacher. She is the Orchestra Director at Patriot High School in Prince William County, Virginia. Previously she taught middle and high school orchestra at Courtland High School and Thornburg Middle School in Spotsylvania County. Her orchestra ensembles have consistently earned Superior ratings at VBODA (Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors’ Association) District Orchestra Assessment. She also has six years of Elementary General Music experience. Ms. VanDenBerghe holds a graduate degree from Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA) and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Music Education at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. Her major instrument is the flute, and she plays piccolo for the Fredericksburg Symphony Orchestra. She previously performed with the Rappahannock Pops Orchestra, the University of Mary Washington Philharmonic, and the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, traveling, reading, cooking, and hanging out with her Siberian Husky, Arrow.
Jami Kleinert is in her 12th year of teaching orchestra and her third year teaching 4th-12th grade strings in Flushing, Michigan. She also coaches youth orchestra string sectionals in the Flint area. She has previously taught strings in both Kansas and Pennsylvania. Jami lives in metro Detroit where she also performs with several local groups on violin and viola.
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This is a trailer for an upcoming episode on building rapport and positive relationships with your students, parents, administration, colleagues and community.
How do you build rapport and positive relationships with your students, parents, administration, and community?
Would you like share your experiences and be featured on The Orchestra Teacher podcast? We would love to have you be a part of it!!
Contact Charles via his website at www.orchestrateacher.net.
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Please donate to my charity!!
Charles is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Charles will be walking in the Atlanta Community Walk on November 6 and is trying to raise $2000 for AFSP.
AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
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Funding scientific research
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Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
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Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
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Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ Atlanta Walk fundraiser in November and donate here:
https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=2570381
https://www.facebook.com/donate/804486100788956/
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This episode features special guest Mr. Adam Gresham of Barber Middle School Orchestra in Cobb County Georgia. Adam talks about going from being a band director to an orchestra director, his training for the position, and his experiences of the first part of the school year.
Adam Gresham is a music educator and percussionist from Marietta, GA. He is currently in his seventh year of teaching, and his first year as the Director of Orchestras at Barber Middle School in Acworth, GA. Prior to this position, he served as the Director of Bands at Richards Middle School in Lawrenceville, GA. Mr. Gresham has also served as the Associate Director of Bands/Director of Percussion/Music Technology Coordinator at Norcross High School in Norcross, GA, and Associate Director of Bands/Director of Percussion at Central High School and Middle School in Carrollton, GA. As an active clinician, he is a consistent guest working with middle and high school percussion ensembles and bands across the southeastern United States. Mr. Gresham holds a Bachelors degree in instrumental Music Education from Georgia State University and a Masters degree in Music Education from American Band College of Central Washington University. He is currently working on his Education Specialist degree at Auburn University. Mr. Gresham is a member of the National Association for Music Educators (NAfME), Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA), National Band Association (NBA), Percussive Arts Society (PAS), and the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE). He currently lives in Marietta, GA, with his wife, Megan, and his two French bulldogs, Toaster and Mikey. Adam can be contacted at: Adam.Gresham@cobbk12.org
Please donate!! Charles is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies: * Funding scientific research * Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention * Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention * Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission You can learn more about Charles’ Atlanta Walk fundraiser in November and donate here: https://supporting.afsp.org/participant/2570381
Your support of this poscast is appreciated! If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience. Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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Creston Herron is the current Director of Fine Arts for the Klein Independent School District and the Conductor of Rice University’s Campanile Orchestra. He is the former Director of Orchestras at Klein High School and the former Director of Strings for the Yes Prep Public Schools.
Mr. Herron’s many engagements as a guest conductor include work with Regional and All State ensembles in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee and throughout Texas. He has also served on the summer faculty of the AFA Summer Music Festival, Stephen F. Austin University Summer Music Camp and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Summer Music Clinic.
As a dedicated pedagogue, Mr. Herron enjoys working with current and future educators and young performers. He has presented masterclasses and guest lectures at The Midwest Clinic, Rice University, Shepherd School of Music, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, University of Houston, Moores School of Music, Sam Houston State University, Texas Tech University, The American String Teachers Association, The League of American Orchestras, and the NAMM Believe in Music Webinar Series, American. He also gives professional development workshops to educators locally and nationally and is involved in judging UIL competitions and solo and ensemble contests.
Mr. Herron enjoyed national recognition both as an educator and musician in tenure with the Klein High School orchestra who earned multiple national titles under his direction, including being named national winner of The American Prize, Grand Champions of the ASTA National Orchestra Festival, Texas Music Educators Association State Honor Orchestra, Grand Champions of the New York Orchestra Cup and invited group at the 75th Midwest Clinic held in Chicago, Illinois. Individually he has been recognized for his work in music education as Teacher of the Year at Klein High School, awarded the Marjorie Keller Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award by the state board of the Texas Chapter of ASTA and the Spec’s Charitable Award for Excellence in Music Education awarded by the Houston Symphony.
Alongside his work as an educator, Mr. Herron continues to hone his performing skills as a violinist, having collaborated with artists such as Renee Fleming, Mark O’Connor, and Rachel Barton-Pine. He has performed with Da Camera of Houston, CCM Spoleto Festival in Italy, Galveston Symphony, Trans-Siberian Orchestra Pasadena Philharmonic, Eutiner Festspiele Opera in Eutin, Germany and the Houston Latin Philharmonic.
Creston Herron is a graduate of the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, where he received his B.M. in music performance, Rice University, Shepherd School of Music in Houston, TX, where he received his M.M. on scholarship as a Provost Fellow and a Brown Scholar, and recently received a M.Ed in school leadership from Sam Houston State University.
Creston Herron lives in Houston with his wife, orchestra director Dawn Herron and two children.
Mr. Herron can be reached at cherron1@kleinisd.net or on Twitter: @CrestonHerron
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This is a trailer to let you know about the next Orchestra Teacher Podcast with Mr. Creston Herron of Kliein ISD in Texas.
The full episode will be streamed LIVE on YouTube this Sunday, July 31 at 11:00 AM EST, 10:00 AM Central.
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
I hope you are all enjoying your summer, resting and recharging for the new school year. This episode is a summer recap and has some information about some great and FREE PD workshops that will be available in August.
Please let me know if you have guests you'd like to see on the podcast or topics you'd like to hear discussed.
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
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Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
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Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
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Angela Ammerman, referred to by the Washington Post as a “music teacher prodigy,” earned degrees in Music Education from the University of Cincinnati: College-Conservatory of Music, Boston University, and her PhD from George Mason University. Dr. Ammerman has dedicated much of her musical career to providing access to quality music education for underserved populations of children and most recently started a strings program at a children’s home in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Ammerman was hired as the Director of Music Education at the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2017 where she built a thriving music education program and was honored as the university’s Outstanding Advisor of the Year. Recognized by Fairfax County Public Schools as the Top Teacher in 2017 and the Virginia House of Delegates in 2016, Angela diligently works to now pass along these teaching and mentorship qualities to her own Music Education students. In 2016, Dr. Ammerman was named the Virginia Orchestra Director of the Year, a finalist for the Fairfax County Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year and Washington Post Teacher of the Year.
Ammerman’s writing can be found in Sandy Goldie’s Rehearsing the Middle School Orchestra, Teaching Music, The String Research Journal, and the American String Teachers Journal. Ammerman also recently completed the manuscript for The Music Teacher’s Guide to Engaging English Language Learners, published by GIA and is hard at work on her next book: The Music Teacher’s Guide to Classroom Management. Dr. Ammerman is in high demand as a guest conductor, speaker, and clinician for sessions and workshops at local, state, national, and international conferences and in-services. Ammerman is especially looking forward to conducting the California All State Jr High Orchestra as well as the Georgia All State Middle School Orchestra in 2023!
Ammerman grew up listening to her mother teach piano lessons in her own home and attributes much of her own passion for teaching to her musical mother. Currently living in Virginia with her incredibly supportive husband and toddler, Ammerman works at George Mason University where she supervises student teachers and teaches String Methods, Lab Orchestra, and Aural Skills. Ammerman is known for an emphasis on play-based learning, humor, a unique style, and for the creation of the first ever Future Music Educators Camp as well as her Music Education Podcast: #MusicEdLove. Dr. Ammerman is in awe of the resilience and dedication of school string educators across the United States and is honored to have the opportunity to work with their students.
https://www.angelaammerman.com
Webinar:
An Influencer’s Toolkit: Practical Steps to Build Your Legacy
Do you remember the moment you fell in love with making music? What about the moment you discovered your passion for teaching music? This influencer’s toolkit will provide practical steps to share powerful teaching experiences with potential future music teachers. Featuring music major nights, teaching awards, and “future music educator events,” you will leave this session ready to contribute to the future in a whole new way. Join us for this highly interactive webinar and build your legacy today!
Join this FREE webinar on May 4, 2022 at 7:00 PM EST a Legacy webinar coming up:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMlduitqDwtHNNoIUIfQypZ8uEOqBch5ARr
The Music Teacher's Guide to Engaging English Language Learners
Amazon Link: https://tinyurl.com/y5jhjqcs
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Dear Podcast Listeners,
Thanks for your patience with me as I know it's been a while since my last Orchestra Teacher Podcast episode. It's been a busy few months with my school orchestra assessments/festivals, some guest conducting, presentations at my state music conference, a school trip to Washington D.C., the amazing ASTA conference, and coaching my two son's baseball teams.
BUT - there's definitely more to come! Future guests may include Chris and Margaret Selby, Cathie Hudnall, Creston Herron, Gail Barnes, Laura Mulligan Thomas, Angela Ammerman, and more...
Summer PD Workshops
Check out these incredible summer opportunities!
Michigan String Educators Workshop
Michael Hopkins, director
https://smtd.umich.edu/programs-degrees/youth-adult-programs/adult-programs/string-educators-workshop/
Ohio State String Teachers Workshop
Bob Gillespie, director
https://music.osu.edu/outreach/osu-stw
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Violinist, educator and composer, Christian Howes was voted #1 in the Downbeat Critics Poll (“Rising Stars/Violin”), named among the top three jazz violinists in the JazzTimes critics poll, and nominated for Violinist of the Year by the Jazz Journalist Association. He received the Residency Partner Award through Chamber Music America, earned a USArtists grant through the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, and was invited by the U.S. State department to teach and perform as a cultural ambassador twice, in Ukraine and Montenegro. His release on Resonance Records, “Southern Exposure” earned recognition in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Downbeat, Jazz Times, as well as a six-night run at Lincoln Center. His release, “American Spirit” was named among the Best Jazz Albums of 2015″ by the Huffington Post. Howes is the founder of “Creative Strings“, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to expand music education through the creation of online curriculum, an annual summer conference, and dozens of visits to schools annually teaching improvisation, contemporary styles, and related subjects. He endorses Yamaha violins and D’Addario strings. Connect with Christian on Facebook, YouTube, www.christianhowes.com, or www.creativestrings.org.
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Episode #34. Teaching Fundamentals, Community Orchestras, Student Teachers and more with Jim Van Eizenga of Novi High School, Michigan
Jim Van Eizenga is in his 10th year as Director of Orchestras at Novi High School. In addition to his position in Novi, he is the conductor and music director of the Gaylord Community Orchestra, and is the conductor and music director of the Alpena Symphony Orchestra. He also regularly conducts the pit orchestra for Novi High School and for Gaylord Community Productions.
As a violist, he has performed with the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, Dearborn Symphony Orchestra, Marquette Symphony Orchestra, Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra, Dexter Community Orchestra, Alpena Symphony Orchestra, and Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra. Currently, he performs with Spectrum Orchestra in Bloomfield Hills.
Jim’s school orchestras regularly receive excellent and superior ratings at District festivals and have performed in New York and Washington DC. In 2019, the NHS Philharmonic Orchestra was selected to perform at the Michigan Music Conference.
Jim holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Western Michigan University (2011) and a Master's degree in Music Education from Michigan State University (2018). He is a member of ASTA and the MSBOA. He currently serves on the Board for the Michigan chapter of ASTA as MMC Coordinator.
Feel free to contact Jim at Jim.vaneizenga@gmail.com
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Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
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Ms. Jessie Ahuama-Jonas is in her fifteenth year of teaching Orchestral music and is the current Director of Orchestras at Centennial High School in Roswell Georgia. A product of the Fulton County School system, Ms. Ahuama-Jonas started taking viola performance seriously in the eighth grade, eventually earning positions with, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's Talent Development Program, the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, , and Fulton County Middle and High School Honor Orchestras, and a camper at the Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen Michigan.
Ms. Ahuama-Jonas received her Bachelor's degree of Music Education from The Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, and her Master’s degree of Music Education from Boston University. Ms. Ahuama-Jonas began teaching middle school orchestra in 2007 and has accomplished musical success with her orchestras. Ms. Ahuama-Jonas has taught in the Fulton County Schools System and the Duval County School System in Jacksonville, FL. She and her orchestras have attended the Georgia and Florida Music Educators’ Association’s Large Group Performance Evaluations since 2008, receiving Superior ratings for twelve consecutive years, and has had students participate in Georgia and Florida All-State Middle School Orchestras, district honor orchestras and Solo and Ensembles, with superior results and high representation of musical excellence.
As a 2016-2017 Teacher of the Year, Ms. Ahuama-Jonas, believes in the importance of quality music education and believes music education should be readily accessible and enjoyable for all students no matter their personal circumstances and situations.
In her spare time, Ms. Ahuama-Jonas loves to perform, and is an avid concert goer of all music. She is a member of the Atlanta Community Symphony Orchestra, and currently performs in the music ensemble East West Strings. She loves sports (especially football, Atlanta Falcons and University of Miami football respectively), staying physically active by playing volleyball, basketball and weight training, knitting, and reading.
Your support is appreciated!
If you are enjoying The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, please consider becoming a supporter for as little as 99 cents per month. I am working hard to bring on some amazing educators who will share ideas, tell their story, and offer some support for all of you. I have invested a lot of time in putting it all together and money purchase equipment that will help provide the best possible listening experience.
Here is the link: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Thank you for your continued support! If you have suggestions for podcast guests, please let me know by providing a name and contact information.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
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Jason Heath is an active performer, writer, blogger and teacher who is known for his podcast Contrabass Conversations, devoted to exploring music and ideas associated with the double bass. His podcast and blog are highly regarded in the music world, and he truly is the voice of the double bass world with hundreds of podcast episodes interviewing some incredible bassists. He is also author of two publications including the guide ‘Winning the Audition’.
As an experienced teacher, Jason has taught double bass at DePaul University and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. His former students hold positions at orchestras around the world, including at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Baltimore Symphony, and the Philharmonie Sudwestfalen. As a performer, Jason has played with Elgin Symphony Orchestra for 16 seasons and with the Midsummer’s music festival in Door County for over a decade. Jason also serves on the Board of Directors for the International Society of Bassists and is the Double Bass Product manager at Eastman Strings.
In 2020, Jason Heath filmed two courses with Discover Double Bass aimed at classical beginners and intermediate players, compiling his many years of experience teaching thousands of students.
https://jasonheath.info
https://www.eastmanstrings.com
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Live from the Midwest Clinic in Chicago! Anna talks about her upcoming session Hindsight Is 20/20: A Vision To Build a Stronger Beginner String Foundation.
Anna Radspinner is an alumnus of the Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education with a Master’s degree in Administration from Wilkes University. She has been a music educator for 19 years with teaching experiences ranging from Kindergarten through 12th grade in the choral/classroom and in string education. Her areas of study include African-American music in which she leads a gospel choir at her home church, Vocal Jazz, the Orff-Schulwerk Approach and string pedagogy, where she arranges music and incorporates what is "relevant" into her style of teaching.
Mrs. Radspinner has been a presenter at the Pennsylvania Music Educator Association State Conference and at the National Conference for the American String Teacher Association. She has also been a guest conductor and clinician for several festivals and in-services sessions in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia and West Virginia. Her intermediate school chamber orchestra will have performed for the Pennsylvania Music Educator Association State Conference three times in the past 5 years. Mrs. Radspinner has received the Pennsylvania Music Educator Association Citation of Excellence in Teaching Award, the Pennsylvania Delaware String Teacher Association 2018 String Teacher of the Year Award and most recently was named the Pennsylvania State University Music Educator’s Alumni of the Year. Outside of the school day, Mrs. Radspinner performs in the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra and maintains a private violin and viola studio. She is also deeply committed to serving her community through school service projects. Currently, she is teaching strings in the Williamsport Area School District at the Andrew G. Curtin Intermediate School. She resides in the city of Williamsport with her husband, Matthew, also a string teacher in the district and their 3 daughters, Megan, Elizabeth (Libby) and Nina.
For more information and for a ton of free resources, visit https://www.mrsradspinner.com.
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Rachel Woods is the orchestra director at Irma Rangel Young Women's Leadership School, a 6th-12th grade academic magnet school in Dallas ISD (Dallas, TX). Prior to taking her current position, she taught at Floyd Middle School (Cobb County, GA) and Lake Highlands Jr. High School (Dallas, TX). Originally from Georgia, Rachel attended Kennesaw State University and received a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and completed her student teaching at Colegio Menor in Quito, Ecuador.
Contact: racwoods@dallasisd.org
Please donate!!
Charles is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
-
Funding scientific research
-
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
-
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
-
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can donate here: https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donate.event&eventID=8086&gclid=CjwKCAiAnO2MBhApEiwA8q0HYeRpZSPziBhnCxpSaGgiQg2ARbNRFV0YiOMyZ56QovqxfYrjKCQW1hoCJ3IQAvD_BwE
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
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Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
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Angela is an orchestra teacher for Rockwall ISD in Texas. She is in her 21st year in teaching this year. Angela has been with Rockwall ISD for 11 years. She previously worked for Dallas ISD as the head director at Woodrow Wilson High School and J.L. Long Middle School for 8 years. She began her teaching career with the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada in the year 2000. Angela has taught private violin and viola for 10 years, and performed with various church and community orchestras since 2011, including Rockwall Summer Musicals and the Mesquite Symphony. She performs on both violin and viola. Angela is originally from Oklahoma City. She holds a Bachelor in Music Education from The University of Central Oklahoma, and a Bachelor in Mass Communication from Oklahoma City University where she received a full music scholarship for viola. Angela has a young piebald dachshund named Bailey, and enjoys movies, live local music performances and kayaking at the neighborhood Lake Ray Hubbard.
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The Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Episode 28
(LIVE) with David Eccles, 8/29/2021, 12:00 PM EST
David F. Eccles is a native of Norfolk, Virginia and currently serves as Director of String Music Education and Orchestral Activities at VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. He has held string education positions in Virginia and Florida. He is an active clinician, adjudicator, conductor, and cellist. He has served as music director and principal conductor for many youth orchestras and guest conductor for numerous state, county, regional, and community orchestras. Mr. Eccles has presented clinic sessions at local, state, and international conferences including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Directors Clinic & Conference, American String Teachers Association Conference, Texas Music Educators Conference, Illinois Music Educators Conference, and Florida Music Educators Conference. Mr. Eccles is also a clinician and consulting author for the Hal Leonard Corporation and a Performing Artist for JonPaul Bows.
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
- Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
- YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
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- Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3...
- Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...
- Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
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A native Texan, Jennifer Wiggin received her Bachelors in Music degree in Viola Performance from Texas Christian University, and her Masters in Music degree in Viola Performance at Indiana University. She went on to obtain her Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Southern California. For the next dozen years she pivoted into a career in marketing and communications, focusing in the education and arts sectors. She was head of marketing and communications for the New World Symphony in Miami, the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California, Children's Museum of Atlanta, The Galloway School, and Atlanta Opera.
Bitten by the entrepreneurial bug in 2016, Jennifer founded Buckhead Strings, bringing beginner- to intermediate-level afterschool & summer camp strings programs to elementary schools in the Atlanta area. In December 2020, she founded KidStrings Box, the first ever subscription box created just for kids who play strings. She established and currently leads the strings program at Atlanta Classical Academy, and has a full private violin and viola studio in Buckhead. In her spare time, she enjoys time with her two teenage children, traveling as much as possible, and walks with her rescue pup, Charlie.
Jennifer can be reached at jennifer@buckheadstrings.com
Box website: www.kidstringsbox.com
Please donate!!
Charles is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
-
Funding scientific research
-
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
-
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
-
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraiser and donate here: https://www.facebook.com/donate/211035227449343/
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website: http://www.orchestrateacher.net
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/theorchestrateacher
Podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher
Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pvAWs3uftZ5FJ2KyZYU0z
Podcast on Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9mNjU1ZWEwL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz
Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-orchestra-teacher-podcast/id1489358262
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
About our guest
Nassar Edwards is the orchestra director at Langham Creek High School in Houston, TX. He has studied violin under Helen Kim, a Juilliard graduate and Kenn Wagner (Atlanta Symphony Orchestra). Nassar has been a violin clinician at various schools in the Cypress, TX area and in the metro-Atlanta area during his collegiate years. Nassar served as the president of the Collegiate National Association For Music Education and American String Teachers Association at Kennesaw State University. Nassar also served as a teacher for the KSU String Project for three years. He also was the Librarian for Kennesaw State University Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestra. Nassar is a member of the American String Teachers Association and Texas Music Educators Association. Since middle school, Nassar always knew he wanted to be a music educator. Nassar enjoys listening to music and podcasts, hanging out with his friends, trying new restaurants, and hopes to influence a community through his love for music.
Mr. Edwards can be reached at nasssar.edwards@cfisd.net.
IG: nassar.edwards | Facebook: Nassar Edwards
Langham Creek Orchestra:
IG: langhamcreekorch | Twitter: CreekOrch | Facebook: Langham Creek Orchestra Booster Club
Please help Charles raise funds for charity!!
Charles is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. AFSP is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
- Funding scientific research
- Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
- Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
- Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
You can learn more about Charles’ fundraiser and donate here:
https://www.facebook.com/donate/211035227449343/
Subscribe to The Orchestra Teacher Website, YouTube Channel, and Podcast!
Website | YouTube Channel
Podcast: Anchor.fm | Spotify | Google | Apple Podcasts
Looking to advertise a product or service to string and orchestra teachers?
Consider an audio advertisement on the Orchestra Teacher Podcast! Proceeds from your ad will help offset costs of equipment and web hosting. Please contact Charles at charleslaux1@gmail.com for more information.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Author Sandy Goldie is the director of music education at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. Before moving to Richmond, Dr. Goldie taught string music education courses at the University of Florida, where she completed her Ph.D. and was awarded the David Wilmot Prize for Excellence in Music Education. She received her master’s degree in music education from the University of Georgia and her bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education and performance from the University of South Carolina.
Dr. Goldie has presented her music education research and pedagogy ideas at state, national, and international conferences, including the International Society for Assessment in Music Education, National Association for Music Education, American String Teachers Association, The Midwest Clinic, Society for Music Teacher Education, and State Music Education Association Conferences in Texas, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia. She has worked to promote music education at the local, state, and national levels through leadership positions in professional organizations such as the American String Teachers Association (former state president of the South Carolina Chapter and Virginia Chapter), South Carolina Music Educators Association (former executive board member of the orchestra division), Virginia Music Educators Association (President of the Higher Education Division), NAfME Collegiate Council (Southern representative), and American Viola Society (executive board member of the South Carolina and Virginia chapters). Dr. Goldie also serves on local arts advisory councils and works with area schools who serve disadvantaged and at-risk students to help provide access to string instruments and instruction.
Dr. Goldie is an active conductor/clinician, professional performer (violist), and advocate for music education. She enjoys working with young musicians throughout the United States and has conducted many honors groups, all-region orchestras, district clinics, youth orchestras, as well as the 2009 South Carolina All-State Orchestra. She has enjoyed working with students of all ages in the public schools as an orchestra teacher for fourteen years. Her school orchestras have consistently received superior ratings each year at state performance festivals in South Carolina, Georgia, and throughout the United States and abroad, performing in places including Hawaii (1st Place High School Orchestra Division), Italy (2007 tour of Rome, Venice, Cremona, and Florence), Orlando, Williamsburg, Myrtle Beach, Atlanta, and New York. Her orchestras have also routinely performed in local nursing homes and elementary schools in order to share the joy of music and music education with others in the community. She has performed professionally with symphonies in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia (South Carolina Philharmonic, Charleston Symphony, Charlotte Philharmonic, Symphony Orchestra Augusta, and others). She currently directs the Richmond Symphony Youth Concert Orchestra and runs the Future Music Educator Honors Program for high school students. Her greatest loves are her family, her dog (Murray), her cat (Charlie), and the joy of sharing the excitement of great music teaching and performing with her students and fellow teachers.
Dr. Goldie can be reached at sgoldie@vcu.edu
Note: Starting with this episode I will begin numbering the episodes to make it easier for the audience to keep track of what they have listened to. Please reach out to me if you have ideas for future Orchestra Teacher Podcast episodes or guests.
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Orchestra Teacher Podcast, Season 2, Episode 9
Krissi Davis is in her 16 thyear in education as the orchestra director at Grady High School in Atlanta Public Schools, where she is currently the 2020-21 Atlanta Public Schools Teacher of the Year. She previously taught at the middle and high school levels in Clayton and Fayette Counties. While in Clayton County, she directed the Middle School Honor Orchestra. While in Fayette County, she directed the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Ms. Davis earned her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Georgia State University in 2004, and Master of Music Education degree from the University of Georgia in 2017. She is currently working toward her Ph.D. in Music Education at Georgia State University where she has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, teaching the undergraduate String Techniques course.
Orchestras under her direction consistently earn superior ratings at GMEA LGPE and have traveled and performed in numerous cities including Orchestra Hall in Chicago, Ill, Carnegie Hall in New York, NY; and the 2018 ASTA National Orchestra Festival. Students in her orchestras consistently participate in honor orchestras such as the Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, and Georgia All-State Orchestra. As a member of GMEA, Ms. Davis has adjudicated GMEA Large Group Performance Evaluations in several districts, served as District 5 Orchestra Chair, and presented sessions at the 2018 and 2020 In-Service Conference. She also presented a session at the 2019 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. She has worked as a guest clinician in various capacities and maintains a private violin studio. Ms. Davis resides in Atlanta, Ga with her dogs Diggy and Russy, and in her spare time enjoys traveling.
Ms. Davis can be reached at: Krissi.Davis@atlanta.k12.ga.us
Visit www.orchestrateacher.net for resources, and more information.
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Dr. Frank M. Diaz is Associate Professor of Music Education at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music where he teaches courses on instrumental music education and teacher wellness. Diaz is a highly sought out clinician and conductor for honors, community, secondary, and collegiate orchestras, and is a frequent presenter and adjudicator for conferences, workshops, and festivals across the country. Previous to his position at Indiana, Diaz taught on the faculties of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory and the University of Oregon School of Music, and served as a public school music teacher for school districts in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Along with his work as a teacher and conductor, Diaz currently serves on the Editorial Board of the String Research Journal and Journal of Research in Music Education, and is an active member of the American String Teachers Association.
Dr. Diaz can be reached at: fmdiaz@indiana.edu
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Brad discusses his use of technology in teaching during the pandemic, particularly his use of loops and Soundtrap.com.
Brad Pfeil received a Bachelor of Music Education and Performance degree from the University of Michigan and Master of Music Education degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. He is currently an orchestra director at Neuqua Valley High School, a Grammy Award winning school in Naperville, IL. Brad taught previously in Las Vegas, Nevada where he performed actively as a double bassist in addition to teaching at Las Vegas High School, Fremont Middle School and Keller Middle School. Brad was principal double bass of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, played in Phantom, and was conductor of the Henderson Civic Symphony. He has also performed with numerous orchestras and artists including the Michigan Opera Theater, Ann Arbor Symphony, Lansing Symphony, Flint Symphony, Peoria Symphony, Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli and Styx. Brad currently performs as principal double bass of the Heartland Festival Orchestra in Washington, Il. Brad is past president of the Nevada Chapter and the Illinois Chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Brad has spent the past eight summers as a conductor at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. This will be his fourth year conducting the Blue Lake International Youth Symphony Orchestra. When not making music, you can find Brad cycling, mountain biking and hiking.
Brad can be reached at brad_pfeil@ipsd.org
Resources: https://www.soundtrap.com
orchestra #highschool #virtuallearning #remoteteaching #looping #improvisation #soundtrap #technology
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Lisa (Hopko) Loucks is in her twenty-third year as Orchestra Director at Maitland Middle School in the Orange County Public Schools centered in Orlando, Florida. Her orchestras have consistently earned superior ratings in the Florida Orchestra Association Music Performance Assessments, and have performed in Atlanta, Chicago, and New York.
Originally from Chicago, Lisa grew up on the west coast of the Florida and is a graduate Manatee High School under the direction of Jim Palmer. She then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from UCF, where her teachers included John Whitney, Lee Eubank, and Dr. Ayako Yonetani. She has served as FOA 7-8 All State Orchestra Chair, District Chair for Orange County, and is a certified adjudicator of Music Performance Assessments. She had the honor of conducting All-County Orchestras throughout the state, and has served on the Board of Directors for the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra. She has been a summer faculty member for both the Florida West Coast Symphony and UCF String Workshop. She has also been an adjunct professor at Stetson University, as instructor of their Secondary String Methods course.
Mrs. Loucks is a violist with the Brevard Symphony, and has performed for the Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra, 4 Divo, Fernando Varela’s PBS special “Coming Home” and with her #1 favorite artist-Harry Connick, Jr. Her professional memberships include the Florida Orchestra Association/ Florida Music Educators Association, American String Teachers Association (ASTA) and Sigma Alpha Iota. Most recently she was selected as the 2017-18 Florida School Teacher of the Year by ASTA.
Outside of the classroom, Lisa is mom to 2-year old Logan. She spends many weekends exploring the theme parks with her family and is an avid Disney Pin Trader.
Ms. Loucks can be reached at Lisa.Loucks@ocps.net
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A casual conversation with Dr. Soo Han
This episode features a very special guest and my dear friend, Dr. Soo Han. Soo agreed to come on the podcast if we could simply have a conversation rather than an interview, so we did! We discuss teaching during the pandemic, the future of music education, and also engage in some personal conversation including plans for Thanksgiving.
I hope you and yours will have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
--
Dr. Soo Han is the director of orchestral studies at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music, a member of the Board of Directors of the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic, a contributing editor for Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements for Strings, a D’Addario Orchestral Strings Artist, a Conn-Selmer Educational Clinician, program coordinator and faculty member with Los Angeles Philharmonic’s summer YOLA program and the former director of orchestras & department chair of the William H. Duke Center for the Performing Arts at Carmel High School in Indiana.
As an active conductor, he has appeared with Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Cave Run Symphony Orchestra, Michigan State Opera Theatre, Michigan State Symphony Orchestra, Valparaiso University and Butler University Symphony Orchestra. He is an active conductor for all-state, regional and honor orchestras appearing in over 30 states and has conducted internationally in Austria, China, Thailand and Australia. Han has collaborated with numerous artists, groups, and conductors such as Lynn Harrell, David Kim and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. He has produced multiple recordings of complete symphonies and has premiered several commissioned works for strings and full orchestras. He has presented workshops and clinics internationally and for nearly every major national and state music conference including: Australian String Teacher Conference, Maryborough National Australia Conference, Midwest Clinic, ASTA National Conference, NAfME National Conference and Ohio University Summer String Teacher Workshop.
Orchestras under his leadership experienced a great deal of success including nine Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) State Championships and being named Grand Champions at the National Orchestra Cup at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. As a passionate supporter of public school music programs, he continues to remain active in instrumental classrooms throughout the country.
Han was previously the president of the Indiana American String Teachers Association and the chapter was awarded the ‘Most Improved Chapter’ during his time as president. He recently served as the National American String Teachers Association’s K-12 Committee Chair. He received his Bachelor of Instrumental Music Education from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Master of Science in Education from Indiana University School of Education and his Doctorate in Orchestral Conducting from the Michigan State University College of Music.
Contact Dr. Han: https://www.bw.edu/academics/bios/han-soo
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Background music:
Ahrirang, arranged by Soo Han
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v4NHMxVehA
To purchase print edition or for more info:https://goo.gl/4JLFWw
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Renee Wang is the Head Orchestra Director at Space Center Intermediate in Clear Creek Independent School District. She is a native of Clear Lake (southeast Houston), Texas. Ms. Wang earned her Master’s degree in Music Education at The Ohio State University, where she studied with Dr. Robert Gillespie, taught undergraduate courses as a Graduate Teaching Associate, worked with the Columbus Symphony Chamber Strings as an assistant conductor, and administrated the Ohio State Morning String Student Workshop summer camp. Prior to graduate school, she was the Orchestra Director at Queens Intermediate in Pasadena, Texas. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Baylor University, where she studied with Dr. Michael Alexander and Dr. Bruce Berg. While at Baylor, Ms. Wang received the Bennett Award in Music Education and was inducted into Pi Kappa Lambda. Ms. Wang has had the opportunity to present sessions at the annual conventions for the American String Teachers Association, Texas Music Educators Association, and Ohio Music Education Association and is actively involved as a clinician and administrator for the Ohio State University String Teacher Workshop. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Wang enjoys leading worship at her church, squirrel-watching and spending time outside with her dog, Alto, and performing in the Houston area.
If you would like to connect with Renee, please email her at rewang@ccisd.net.
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This is the last of three special episodes where I bring previous guests back on the podcast to check in with them on their current state using a hybrid (simultaneous F2F and remote) teaching. David shares his current teaching situation, some fresh ideas, and thoughts about his hybrid teaching experiences.
hybridteaching #orchestra
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Hybrid Teaching Updates (Simultaneous F2F and Remote)
This is the second of three special episodes where I bring previous guests back on the podcast to check in with them on how their hybrid teaching is going. Scott shares his philosophy, ideas, and hybrid teaching experiences.
Listen to the first episode with Scott Laird from March 20, 2020
hybridteaching #orchestra
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Hybrid Teaching Updates (Simultaneous F2F and Remote)
This is the first of three special episodes where I bring previous guests back on the podcast to check in with them on how their hybrid teaching is going. Shawn shares her philosophy, ideas, and experiences with our listeners.
Listen to the first episode with Shawn from August 16.
hybridteaching #orchestra
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My thoughts on preparing to teach in a hybrid format, with a small portion of the population returning Face to Face while a majority of students remain in their remote learning situation.
Coming soon will be an episode featuring teachers who will share their experiences with hybrid teaching. Stay tuned.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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In this episode, we interview Ms. Shawn Morton, orchestra director at Duluth High School in the Gwinnett County Schools in Georgia about her experience going back to school amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She is slated to introduce students with face to face learning in the next few weeks and discusses her current online teaching and her preparations for face to face.
Shawn Morton is beginning her fourteenth year as an orchestra teacher in Gwinnett County. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a minor in viola performance. While attending UGA, Mrs. Morton was a member of the Honors program and was president of the UGA chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Mrs. Morton also holds a Masters of Business Administration from Shorter College. Mrs. Morton conducts the Gwinnett County Kendall Youth Orchestra, and she has worked as a sectional coach with the Gwinnett County Youth Symphony, and she has served as a clinician for local school orchestras, the Spivey Hall Chamber Orchestra Workshop, The Gwinnett County Violapalooza Festival, The Gwinnett County Tapestry Workshop, the UGA Summer Music Camp and various other workshops and clinics. Mrs. Morton also maintains a private studio. Her students have been named as members of Kendall Youth Orchestra, Gwinnett County Youth Symphony, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra, Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, and the Georgia All-State Orchestra. In addition, Mrs. Morton’s orchestras have performed at the 2007 Midwest Clinic, 2009 American String Teachers Association Conference and the 2011 Georgia Music Educators Association In-service Conference, 2013 National Band and Orchestra Festival at Lincoln Center, and the 2014 Midwest Clinic. Mrs. Morton is a member of the American String Teachers Association, Georgia Music Educators Association, Professional Association of Georgia Educators, and Sigma Beta Delta . She resides in Buford with her husband Dale, son Hudson and dogs Harmony and Mozart. Contact Shawn at shawn_morton@gwinnett.k12.ga.us
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In this episode, I share my thoughts on pre-planning and provide some preliminary information about our next guest, Ms. Shawn Morton. The full episode featuring an interview with Shawn Morton of Duluth High School will be coming on Sunday, August 16!
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This episode is just a quick update to what is going on and Dr. Laux's thoughts on returning back to school. More full episodes coming soon!
Note: This podcast will start Season 2, Episode #1 of the Orchestra Teacher Podcast.
For resources and ideas for your classroom visit www.orchestrateacher.net
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Cory Zilisch is the Director of Orchestras at Westport Middle School in Louisville, Kentucky. He has taught orchestra in the city of Louisville for 5 years. During Cory's tenure at Westport Middle School since 2014, the orchestra program has grown by over 400% in just two years. (From 45 to 180+ members)
Mr. Zilisch has been a pioneer in the area of string education. Under his direction, the Westport Orchestra boasts one of the first middle school "Electric Orchestra" programs. Mr. Zilisch has propelled the Westport Orchestra into the 21st century using state of the art instruments and technology. The "Rock N' Warhawks" electric orchestra is a unique performing ensemble that utilizes electric instruments, choreography and improvisation. The electric group performs very often in many community events and functions. Mr. Zilisch has presented sessions on technology in the music classroom at the JCPS music teacher's in-services, American String Teacher's Association National Conference, University of Louisville, University of Michigan, University of Delaware and the KMEA State Conference. Mr. Zilisch has also received numerous awards including a recent selection as a quarterfinalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award. Mr. Zilisch was also selected as the Kentucky Music Educators Association 2017 state Middle school teacher of the year.
http://westportorchestra.org/
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/westportmiddleschoolorchestra
Facebook Channel: http://facebook.com/westportorchestra
Resources:
SmartMusic
FlipGrid
Christian Howes' Play Along Workouts on YouTube
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Recognized string pedagogue and conductor, Scott Laird, serves on the faculty of The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he is Fine Arts Coordinator and Instructor of Music. Noted for his innovative approach to ensemble development and musicianship, Laird is a frequent conductor of honor orchestras and is a sought-after conference presenter. He regularly performs on acoustic and electric violin and is known for his abilities in both the classical and improvisatory arena. Laird was the recipient of the 2019 UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award, 2017 ASTA Elizabeth A. H. Green Award, and North Carolina Symphony’s 2016 Maxine Swalin Award. He is currently on the National Boards of the American String Teachers Association, El Sistema USA and Creative Strings, Inc. He has served as President of the NC Chapter of ASTA, Chair of the NCMEA Orchestra Section and maintains a presence as a national leader in string education. He earned his B.S. in Music Education and his M.A. in Violin Performance from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he studied violin with Prof. Delight Malitsky. He earned his National Board Certification in 2004 and recertified in 2013. His blog, “Thoughts of a String Educator,” enjoys broad readership in the music education community. In addition, Laird serves as a sponsored artist and educational specialist for D’Addario Bowed Strings, Coda Bows, Conn Selmer, and NS Design Electric Violins and String Editor for C Alan Publications.
Website: http://www.scottlaird.net/
Blog: http://www.scottlaird.net/Blog.html
North Carolina School of Science and Math: https://www.ncssm.edu/
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Amanda Turner holds a Bachelor of Music (1998) and Master of Music (2005) in Music Education, both from University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In 2018, she received her National Board recertification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Currently, Mrs. Turner teaches orchestra at Ardrey Kell & East Mecklenburg High Schools, both located in Charlotte, NC. Mrs. Turner is also the conductor of the Union Symphony Youth Orchestra Prelude Strings. Orchestras under Mrs. Turner’s direction have consistently earned Superior ratings at the North Carolina Music Performance Adjudication and at a variety of other performance venues. Students in her ensembles are chosen to participate in auditioned orchestras including the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Honors Orchestra, the Junior Western Region Orchestra, the Senior Western Region Orchestra, the North Carolina Honors All-State Orchestra, the North Carolina ASTA All-State Orchestra and the NAfME Honors All-National Orchestra. She has served as guest clinician/conductor for the Western Regional Repertory Orchestra (NC), Junior Western Region Honors Orchestra (NC), Junior Eastern Region Honors Orchestra (NC), Buncombe (NC), New Hanover (NC), Onslow (NC), Robeson (NC), Rock Hill (SC), and Winston-Salem Forsyth (NC) All-County Orchestras, the South Carolina Region 1 Junior Orchestra and the UNCG Summer Music Camp.
Amanda holds professional memberships as a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA), and the American String Teachers Association (ASTA). She is the past NC Orchestra Division Chair for NCMEA and is currently the NC ASTA Chapter President-Elect. Mrs. Turner has been a free-lance violist in the Charlotte area for years and currently performs as a section violist with the Union Symphony Orchestra. She has taught violin and viola privately for 20 years. She currently resides in Matthews, NC with her husband Chad, a band director and free-lance trombonist, their beautiful children, daughter, Addison, son, Asher and dog Bella.
Links:
- Ardrey Kell High School Orchestra
- East Mecklenburg High School Orchestra
- Google Classroom
- Charms Office
- Remind
Online Project: Orchestro! (Orchestra Bingo)
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PdIcEHBOMOYX7K_JzG8AHDeessXIK1lVWoMHthLtFF0/edit
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Dr. Marci Major serves as Chair and Associate Professor of Music Education at West Chester University, PA, and directs the Bel Canto ensemble with the Kennett Symphony Children’s Chorus. As an active researcher, Dr. Major's primary research interests encompass the economics of music education in today's public schools, and choral music in the middle levels. Her research appears in the Arts Education Policy Review, Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education, the Journal of Research in Music Education, Missouri Journal of Research in Music Education and Research Studies in Music Education Dr. Major balances her research interests with the roles of clinician, adjudicator and conductor by giving teacher preparation workshops and conducting honors choirs locally and across the nation. Dr. Major earned her B.S. in music education from West Chester University, her M.M. in choral conducting from Michigan State University, and her Ph.D. in music education from The Ohio State University. Prior to collegiate teaching, Dr. Major taught middle and high school choir in Michigan. Dr. Major resides in West Chester, Pennsylvania, with her husband, son, and daughter.
Contact Dr. Major - MMajor@wcupa.edu
Links:
FFlat Books - https://fflat-books.com/
Here are the direct links to the forms:
MSL Request - https://forms.gle/1w3URu3frCUu5eRX8
MSL Helper - https://forms.gle/X1Dz2CTUMeKLXmKv8
MSL Mentor - https://forms.gle/QBpRQYEM6DnqBfTU6
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Episode 7 - Special Episode #2 on Distance Learning
Rosie Riquelme, Director of Orchestras at Collins Hill High School, received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Georgia College and State University where she was a student of Dr. Daniel Kaplunas. Rosie received her Masters of Music Education from the University of West Georgia through their online program and is continuing her own violin studies with Curtis Institute Alumni, Mrs. Valerie Gardner in Winder, GA. In 2019, Rosie became a Level 1 & Level 2 Google Certified Educator. Rosie is excited to begin pursuing her Specialist Degree this August 2019 in Instructional Technology at Kennesaw State University. Rosie regularly serves as a guest clinician for various honor orchestras and schools around Gwinnett County, and has served as one of the counselors for the Encore! Summer Music Camp. This 2019-2020 school year is Rosie’s ninth year teaching orchestra and ninth year at Collins Hill High School. While teaching at Collins Hill, all orchestras have consistently received straight superior ratings at the annual large group performance evaluations. As a violinist, she has performed with various groups including the Omaggio String Quartet, GCSU String Ensemble, GCSU String Quartet, Georgia All-College Orchestra, Agnes Scott Community Orchestra, Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra, Gwinnett County Chamber Orchestra, and the Da Salo Solisti Chamber Orchestra. Rosie has had the honor of performing with various performing artists including Josh Groban, Michael Buble, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Ashanti Floyd otherwise known as “The Mad Violinist”. In 2010, the Omaggio String Quartet had the honor of performing for Georgia Governor, Mr. Nathan Deal. Currently, she regularly performs with the Bella Nota String Quartet and the Emerald Empire Band playing for various events around Atlanta. Rosie currently resides in Atlanta, GA and enjoys salsa dancing, traveling, paddleboarding, and spending time with her cats.
Contact Rosie: Rosie.riquelme@gcpsk12.org
Links:
Website for Duck Soup: https://ducksoup.us/
Tutorial on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P0NBg1DQ2s&fbclid=IwAR37e6oZdnMqjN5Iy5xnlBQyGMuZhAjhoIsX1Ye3Pj1O2DT1bUgeazaNoaw
Presentation Slides about Duck Soup: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vQ7be2x_fMsgFqPU0qmkrB3ySwWSXudp-1Bhe1PjHt6GUIAhpyVXMFdld9dEOfu9Ly5l9ZCNq0SkQUg/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000&fbclid=IwAR1gvN9xHfrf7MbMI7j7-M2gNSac6f9VWj5X42ph3YF3e6f231KOlSDee7w&slide=id.g35f391192_00
Special Episodes on Distance Learning
Amid the current COVID-19 outbreak, many schools are closed so it made sense to focus a series of Orchestra Teacher Podcast episodes on the topic of Distance Learning. Many teachers have been using technology for years, however now it has become a necessity and a requirement for teachers whose schools are closed. This series will feature teachers from across the country who are using technology in creative ways that will help provide other teachers with ideas and resources for their teaching. While online instruction in orchestra can never replace face-to-face instruction, creative use of technology can help provide meaningful instruction for our students while schools are closed.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Special Episodes on Distance Learning
Amid the current COVID-19 outbreak, many schools are closed so it made sense to focus a series of Orchestra Teacher Podcast episodes on the topic of Distance Learning. Many teachers have been using technology for years, however now it has become a necessity and a requirement for teachers whose schools are closed. This series will feature teachers from across the country who are using technology in creative ways that will help provide other teachers with ideas and resources for their teaching. While online instruction in orchestra can never replace face-to-face instruction, creative use of technology can help provide meaningful instruction for our students while schools are closed.
Episode 7
Stephan Labelle is the Orchestra and Guitar Director at Wekiva High School in the Orange County Public Schools in Central Florida. Stephan holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Delaware. He has directed orchestra, guitar, and keyboard programs in the Cranford Public Schools and Rahway Public Schools in NJ. He has performed as a soloist as well as with various ensembles such as the Blue Hen String Quartet and the Lieto String Quartet in Pennsylvania as well as many outside organizations. He also teaches privately throughout Orange County.
Links
- Extensive List of Companies Offering Free Services: http://www.amazingeducationalresources.com/
- www.flipgrid.com
- home.smartmusic.com
- www.sightreadingfactory.com
Contact Stephan at: stephan.labelle2@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/orchestrateacher/support
Karel Butz is the Head Orchestra Director at Beckendorff Junior High School in Katy, Texas. He previously taught orchestra in the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (Houston, Texas) and Carmel Clay Schools (Carmel, Indiana) in addition to serving as adjunct violin faculty at Purdue University. His orchestras have performed at the Midwest Clinic and are consistent UIL Sweepstakes Winners, Texas Honor Orchestra State Finalists, and National Honor Orchestra Winners in the Foundation for Music Education Mark of Excellence Competition. Under his direction, the Beckendorff Honor Orchestra was named the 2019 Texas State Honor Orchestra and 2019 Houston Cup Winner. He is a frequent guest conductor, lecturer, and clinician around the country.
His music is published by Musica Propria, Inc. and has been performed worldwide at several venues such as the Midwest Clinic, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival, Indiana University String Academy, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Conference, and several all-state and region honor orchestras. His book Achieving Musical Success in the String Classroom (2019) is published by Oxford University Press.
Mr. Butz has performed in several orchestras, including the National Repertory Orchestra, National Orchestral Institute, and Spoleto Festival USA. He served as an Associate Instructor for string techniques and music theory at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. In addition, he taught violin for the Indiana University String Academy, Music for All Summer Symposium Orchestra Division, and the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute. He is a freelance violinist in Houston.
Mr. Butz is a member of the Texas Music Adjudicators Association (TMAA), Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA), and American String Teachers Association (ASTA).
Mr. Butz received both his Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music in Violin Performance with high distinction from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where his principal violin instructors were Nelli Shkolnikova and Mimi Zweig. He completed doctoral coursework in music education at Indiana University.
Links:
Karel's Website
Textbook: Achieving Musical Success in the String Classroom
Amazon Link
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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Erin Yelton Broadhurst is an orchestra director for the Hilliard City School District near Columbus, Ohio. She has earned Master Teacher status as designated by the State of Ohio, and in April of 2016 she received a Baldwin-Wallace Outstanding Educator Award. She has served as a string clinician for the American String Teachers’ Association (ASTA and Ohio Music Education Association conferences, and is a member of the Executive Board for the Ohio chapter of ASTA. Ms. Broadhurst is currently the violist for the Columbus String Quartet, and her past professional performance experience includes membership in the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Newark-Granville Symphony. Ms. Broadhurst’s previous teaching background includes serving as the director of the Newark-Granville Chamber Strings, Middletown Youth Symphony, and maintaining a private viola and violin studio. In 2003 she was chosen as the Ohio String Teachers’ Association's Young Teacher of the Year. Ms. Broadhurst earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree at BW and earned Master’s degrees in both String Pedagogy and Viola Performance from the Ohio State University. She thoroughly enjoys working with the wonderful students at Hilliard Memorial Middle School and Hilliard Bradley High School and spending time with her husband and two children.
Ms. Broadhurst can be reached at Erin_Broadhurst@hboe.org.
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Recorded at the 73rd Annual Midwest Clinic... David Metrio is currently the Director of Orchestras at Lanier High School in Sugar Hill, GA as well as the conductor for the Georgia Youth Symphony Camerata Orchestra. He has studied double bass under Dr. James Barket (Kennesaw State), Mr. Joseph Mcfadden (Atlanta Symphony), and Mr. Michael Kurth (Atlanta Symphony). Mr. Metrio has also performed with several orchestras in the Atlanta area such as the Georgia Symphony, the Kennesaw State University Orchestra, the Gwinnett Symphony, and the Emory Symphony. David Metrio is currently the Director of Orchestras at Lanier High School in Sugar Hill, GA as well as the conductor for the Georgia Youth Symphony Camerata Orchestra. Mr. Metrio is an active bass clinician in the Atlanta area. He has presented bass clinics at various middle schools and high schools in the Gwinnett, Cobb, and Fulton County School Districts as well as the Atlanta Public School District. Metrio has served on staff at the Upbeat! Summer orchestra camp as well as the Georgia ASTA summer orchestra camp. Mr. Metrio also maintains a small private bass studio. While at KSU, Metrio served as president of the KSU chapter of the American String Teachers Association. Mr. Metrio was also a lead teacher for the KSU strings project. Metrio served as head intern and librarian for the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra and assistant librarian for the Georgia Symphony. Mr. Metrio’s professional affiliations include the National Association For Music Education, the American String Teachers Association, and the Georgia Music Educators Association. In his free time, Mr. Metrio enjoys traveling and considers himself an avid foodie. He resides in Suwanee, GA with his beloved Shit-Zu, Mozart.
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Dr. Blair Williams (PhD, The Ohio State University, MM, Kansas State University, BME, Baylor University) is an Assistant Professor of String Music Education in the School of Music at Texas Tech University. Her duties at Texas Tech include supervising string student teachers, teaching courses in string music education, instruction in instrumental/orchestral conducting, and directing the Texas Tech University String Project.
During the summers, Dr. Williams is active with the TTU Summer Master of Music Education program, the TTU Band and Orchestra Camp Academy for beginning students, and the TTU Band and Orchestra Camp.
Additionally, she serves on the editorial board for American String Teacher, on the National String Project Consortium Board, on the ASTA Collegiate Committee, as a Member-at-Large for NAfME-Texas, as the TMEA Region 16 College Chair, and as an advisor to the Epsilon Pi chapter of Mu Phi Epsilon and the TTU Student Chapter of the American String Teachers Association.
Dr. Williams has presented clinics regionally and nationally including invited sessions at the National Association for Music Education National In-Service Conference, the annual American String Teachers Association conference, the Ohio State String Teacher Workshop, Texas Music Educators Association, and Colorado Music Educators Association. Her research interests include: rural string music education, music teacher education, secondary music teaching, and viola. She has been published in The American String Teacher and SmartMusic.
Additional conducting engagements have included: youth, regional, and all-city ensembles in Kansas, Texas, Ohio, and Oregon; Graduate Conductor/Section Coach-Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras, Chamber Strings; Graduate Conductor-Kansas State Orchestra; Assistant Director/Administrator of the Gold Orchestra (Manhattan, KS) including an invited performance at The Midwest Clinic in 2010; and Associate Director/String Coordinator of the Waco Symphony Youth Orchestra.
After earning her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baylor, Dr. Williams served as Director of Orchestras and the Associate Director of Orchestras in Midway ISD, Waco, TX teaching grades 5-12. While teaching in Texas, Dr. Williams' ensembles (string and full) consistently received superior ratings and sweepstakes awards at UIL Solo and Ensemble, UIL Large Group Contest, and other festivals. In 2009, she founded the Midway High School chapter of Texas Future Music Educators with 20 students. Dr. Williams also continues to enjoy working with public school students as a guest adjudicator, clinician, and conductor.
She is a member of ASTA, NAfME, TMEA, Pi Kappa Lambda, CMS, and Mu Phi Epsilon.
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Our inaugural episode features an interview with Mr. Matthew Radspinner, orchestra director at Williamsport Area High School in Pennsylvania.
Matthew Radspinner was appointed to the position of Orchestra Director at Williamsport Area High School in 2011 but has served in the district since 2005. Previously he directed Williamsport Area Middle School and Elementary orchestras. Mr. Radspinner has had the honor of having four of his Williamsport Area School District Orchestras selected to perform at PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) State Conferences in 2008, 2010, 2014 and 2017. At the high school, Mr. Radspinner directs three curricular orchestras as well as the, Millionaire Strolling Strings. The Millionaire Strolling Strings performed at the opening general session of the 2019 NAfME Easter Conference in Pittsburgh, PA.
Outside of his duties with the Williamsport Area School District, Mr. Radspinner has served as a member of the music education faculties at Susquehanna and Bucknell Universities and has been teaching at the Ohio State University String Teacher Workshop since 2011. Currently, Mr. Radspinner is the music director for the Williamsport Symphony Youth Orchestra and is the founder of the Williamsport Symphony Junior Strings program. Mr. Radspinner has been invited to guest conduct orchestras throughout the east coast and enjoys an activate schedule as a clinician, including presenting at the 2012 and 2017 PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) State Conference and the 2015 ASTA (American String Teacher Association) conference in Tampa Fla. In 2017, Mr. Radspinner was honored to receive the Pennsylvania String Teacher of the Year award as given by the Pennsylvania/Delaware chapter of ASTA.
Mr. Radspinner studied undergraduate music education and performance at The Pennsylvania State University and Mansfield University. Radspinner completed masters in music education at Shenandoah University. On double bass, Mr. Radspinner is a member of the Williamsport Symphony and has performed with the Nittany Valley, and Altoona Symphonies as well as the Penns Woods Festival Orchestra. Also, Mr. Radspinner is a founding member of The Williamsport City Jazz Orchestra.
Mr. Radspinner resides in the city of Williamsport with his wife Anna (also a string teacher) and their daughters Megan, Elizabeth (Libby), and Nina.
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My newest project is this podcast, called “The Orchestra Teacher.” It is my hope that I will be able to capture the interest of string and orchestra teachers by interviewing some of the most outstanding educators in our profession to get their insight into what they do. I want to learn about their educational philosophies, daily routines, teaching strategies, successes, and situations that challenge them. Through these discussions, we can all reflect, learn, and grow. You will be able to listen to episodes of the podcast and subscribe on OrchestraTeacher.net, anchor.fm, Spotify, and more. Stay tuned for new episodes every few weeks. Our first guest will be Mr. Matthew Radspinner, Orchestra Director at Williamsport Area School District in Pennsylvania. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! The list of future guests includes educators and other influencers from all walks of the string teaching profession. If you have someone in mind who would make a good guest, please don’t hesitate to let me know! I can be reached via my website at www.OrchestraTeacher.net. Thanks for listening!
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