The Music Room: Recent Episodes
Aileen Miracle
The Music Room is a podcast for elementary music teachers looking to learn helpful strategies, lesson ideas, songs, and more, for distance and hybrid learning, and beyond! Through discussion and interviews, Aileen will cover everything from Kodaly-inspired teaching, to decolonizing practices, to classroom management. For more helpful ideas for music educators, visit www.mrsmiraclesmusicroom.com
which is about how small, consistent actions as a music teacher and otherwise can build extraordinary lives.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Jeanette Mihalchik from the Happy Music Teacher about Ukuleles in the Music Room, from storage, to lesson planning, to play alongs!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses "The 12 Week Year" as a basis for planning for your summer.
In this podcast episode, Aileen details six different types of sub plans for the music room, from "one off" sub plans to "keep on track" sub plans, to help inspire you when writing your own sub plans!
Looking for ways to engage your upper elementary music students? Check out this podcast, with three strategies!
Wondering what the life of an arts administrator looks like? Check out this podcast episode, with examples of tasks and projects.
Looking for ideas for hands-on manipulatives for the music room? Check out this podcast episode, which includes information about rhythmic manipulatives, melodic manipulatives, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses her 10 favorite podcast episodes from "The Music Room," as well as her 10 favorite podcasts in general.
Wondering how to get students to think about their thinking in the music room? In this podcast, Aileen discusses three ways to get students to think about their thinking.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five lessons she has learned in her new role as arts administrator.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five strategies for improving growth mindset in the music classroom.
Looking for fun ways to teach tika-tika, or sixteenth notes, in the music room? Check out this podcast episode, with songs, a listening lesson, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses how to teach successfully when times are tough, whether you are experiencing the death of a loved one, divorce, or any other difficult situation.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Ashley Cuthbertson about Culturally Responsive Teaching: what it is, specific lesson examples, and more!
Are you searching for ways to simplify your lesson planning in the music room? Check out this podcast interview, with Jessica Peresta!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses how best to use standards-based grading in the music room.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five mistakes she's made with centers, from trying to do too much, to not offering enough choice.
Wondering how best to teach your neurodivergent students? Check out this podcast episode with Kimberly Hall, with strategies for best meeting the needs of all of your students, especially those who aren't "typical" learners.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss music activities, lessons, picture books, and tech tools for which they are thankful, from "Great Big House" to Nearpod.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses her favorite opening activities for the elementary music classroom, from singing games to listening!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses her favorite music education resources, from print resources, to websites, to podcasts!
In this podcast episode, Aileen offers tips for starting an elementary choir, from recruitment, to auditions, to scheduling.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Dalcroze expert Anthony Molinaro about Dalcroze-inspired teaching, sample activities, and more!
Wondering how to implement Genius Hour in the music room? In this podcast episode, Aileen shares ideas for implementing Genius Hour, also known as Passion Project and 20% time, in your music lessons.
Wondering how to start off the school year right in your music room? This podcast episode has lots of lesson ideas for back to school in your music classroom!
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss their favorite elementary music activities from the 2021-2022 school year, from ukulele, to GarageBand, to a name game.
In this episode, Aileen interviews writer, illustrator, and music educator Katie Terrell Ramos about the process of writing and illustrating picture books for the music room.
Have you been thinking about attending an OAKE conference, and wondering what you might learn? Check out this podcast episode, with takeaways from the 2022 OAKE music education conference!
Wondering how to plan out the rest of your school year? In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses how to plan out your last quarter in the music room!
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Ms. Jenkins from the Chromatic Music Teacher about her favorite activities for the music room, how she uses Boomwhackers, what it's like to be a new music teacher in 2022, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Bill Henry and Bruce Fite from the Music Podcast for Kids, about YouTube videos and podcast episodes to improve student learning! Bill and Bruce also discuss how to create your own videos for your students.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses rhythm activities with primary grades, from rhythm read along videos to improvising on barred instruments.
In this episode, Aileen interviews educator Michael Sivert about SEL, or Social Emotional Learning. Michael discusses strategies that have worked in his upper elementary classroom, and shares adaptations for the music classroom.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five time-saving tips for assessment, from considering how to track data, to planning assessments in advance, to collecting enough data so your stress lessens!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses catching students up with their music curriculum, after distance learning, no singing in the music classroom, etc.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Beth Duhon about self care for music teachers, from what to listen to on the way to work, to what we include in our morning routine.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Bryson Tarbet about exceptional learners in the music classroom. Bryson offers suggestions and resources for how best to teach exceptional learners in your elementary music lessons.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses three ways to present a performance when "in person" concerts aren't possible, because of COVID-19 regulations.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five productivity hacks for busy music educators, from thinking carefully about when to say "yes," to using themed days to get tasks done.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss activities that are working for grades K-2 and 3-5 in the music room so far this year, as well as activities they are planning for the future.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie look back on the 2020-2021 school year, and look forward to the 2021-2022 school year, discussing everything from tech tools, to lesson structures, to how we'll learn this summer.
In this episode, Aileen interviews two colleagues, Ashley Ellerman and Sarah King, about collaboration in the music room. They discuss projects they've collaborated on, tech tools, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses different print and digital music education curricula, as well as print and digital resources, with suggestions for creating your own!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses what we can learn from this year, from tech tools, to building student relationships, to educating ourselves about social justice. Specific ideas for learning from this year and implementing next year are shared.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Amy Abbott about gender neutrality in the music room. They discuss song choices, language adaptations, and more, to help students feel safe in the music classroom.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses how she manages time as a blogger and podcaster, and as a music teacher. Business strategies such as batching and scheduling are discussed, with ideas for adapting to the music classroom.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss what's working in the socially distanced and virtual music classrooms, from lesson ideas, to tech platforms, to building relationships with students.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses strategies for teaching students the difference between steady beat and rhythm. From steady beat activities to tracking icons, to instrument playing, lots of tried and true activities are shared!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses self-care for music teachers, from reading for enjoyment, to saying no (when it's not a hard yes.)
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Katie Wardrobe from Midnight Music about tech tools for the music room, from tools for lesson delivery, productivity, portfolios, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen talks with frequent co-host Katie, as well as Carrie and Tanya from the Music Teacher Coffee Talk Podcast, about successes and challenges this fall with in person and distance learning in the music room. They discuss what feels the same, what feels different, their favorite activities, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses her first week of virtual teaching, from her challenges, to her successes, to specific activities that worked well for the virtual music classroom.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses different scenarios and solutions for the fall, with the COVID-19 crisis. Originally aired June of 2020.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss what the fall will look like for both of them in their music classrooms. Socially distanced teaching and virtual learning will both be discussed, with ideas for room set-up, ideas for preparing for the school year, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Nyssa Brown about home learning. Nyssa offers practical strategies for distance learning for music educators, including how to take care of yourself, how to use technology to connect with students, and more.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss thoughts on distance learning, from tools they are using, to ways they are interacting with students digitally.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses how to improve pacing in the music room, from creating routines, to talking less, to allotting time for activities in your written lesson plans.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses why she chose to be a music teacher, and the steps she has taken to ensure she still loves it today!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses three failures she has had in her music room, from a musical program, to trying to fit too much into a lesson, to folk dancing, and how she turned those failures into successes!
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Megan Simcox about teaching disabled students in music class. Aileen and Megan reflect on disabled students in theatre and music, adaptive tools for the music room, how to adapt our teaching to best meet the needs of all students, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Colleen Rice about being a student teaching supervisor. They discuss traits of a successful student teacher, how to navigate the edTPA, and more.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses six stages of your music educator journey, and how to figure out which stage you are at, to help you make goals and resolutions for the new year.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Debbie O'Shea about strategies for improving classroom management in the music room, from focusing on positive relationships with students, to using music as its own reward.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses the what, why, and how of project-based learning in the music room. Specific examples and lesson procedures are outlined.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Brandi Waller-Pace about applying decolonizing practices in the music room. Folk song research, listening lessons, resources, and more are discussed.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Nyssa Brown about moving beyond methodology, including lesson ideas for deeper level thinking, how to interpret the NCAS, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses activities from each lesson she's teaching this week, from the "Highway No. 1" dance with 1st grade, to a "Mango Walk" Orff arrangement with 5th grade!
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss PBIS in the music room, to improve classroom management, student behavior, and classroom culture. Suggestions are given for trying this in your music room and/or school.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses free tech tools for the music room, from Chrome Music Lab to QR codes, and other "techie" stuff.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses five must-do tasks for back-to-school in the music room, and five nice-to-do tasks. Topics from decorating, to writing engaging lessons, to creating a music brochure, will be explored.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Joan Litman about multicultural music in the music classroom. Aileen and Joan discuss the successes and challenges of teaching music from other cultures, teaching literacy through these songs, and resources for understanding text and context.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses three new things she tried in her music room this year: Differentiated centers, PBL, or Project-Based Learning, and Escape Rooms. She also explores what she'd like to try next school year.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses tips for student teachers succeeding in your music room, from asking deeper level questions to carefully planning out your time with them.
In this episode, Aileen discusses the lessons she's doing this week, from composing in small groups with 1st graders using the song "See the old witch," to doing centers to practice ti and the major scale with 5th graders.
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss preparing for the end of the school year in the music room, from organizing your lessons, to deciding on a theme for the next year, to using technology to streamline your materials.
In this podcast episode, Aileen reflects on the 2019 OAKE conference, discussing songs and ideas from sessions she attended, technology shared at the "Tech Table" event, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss how to adapt your lessons when you see your students less for music. Strategies such as combining your lessons, repurposing songs, and more will be explored, so that you can keep on track with curriculum while still teaching with joy and intention.
In this podcast episode, Aileen talks about six routines to improve productivity and happiness, from meditation tools, to Airtable, to batching. The show notes include a couple videos to further extend the ideas!
In this episode--part of our "Technology We Love" series--Aileen and Katie interview Jenna Pelansky from Specdrums, discussing how Specdrums came to be, what can be done with Specdrums in the music classroom, and what is next for the company!
In this podcast episode, Aileen talks with Karla Cherwinski about how to get most out of music education conferences. Aileen and Karla discuss strategies for choosing the right sessions, how to make sure you implement the great ideas you've learned, and their all-time favorite sessions. They also discuss the upcoming 2019 OAKE Conference in Columbus, Ohio.
In this podcast episode, Aileen interviews Matthew Parker about best practices for children's choir, including how to choose music, favorite warm-ups and octavos, and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen talks with Emily Karst about rejuvenating and reflecting during winter break. Aileen and Emily discuss their favorite reads, teaching tips, how to reflect on the year, how to connect with your students and family, and more!
In this episode, Aileen discusses her favorite ways to celebrate Christmas and other winter holidays in the music room, from mixers to picture books and more!
In this podcast episode, Aileen and Katie discuss learning styles in the music room, physical, visual, and aural strategies for practicing rhythm and melody, and other modalities of teaching.
In this podcast episode, Aileen discusses her process for giving students input for a musical program and helping them to create aspects of the performance.
In this episode, Aileen interviews Emily Anderson Karst about STEAM, or STEM, in the music room. Benefits of STEAM education are discussed, as well as sample activities, ideas for coding, and more!
In this episode, Aileen discusses strategies for classroom management in the music room, from staying calm to giving students choice. Anecdotal stories will be shared, as well as specific strategies to try in your music lessons.
In this episode, Aileen and Katie talk to Jacob Zax, CEO of Edify, about the music apps Musiquest and Sketch a Song. Ideas for classroom use and lesson creation will be shared.
In this episode, Katie and I talk about ten ways we prepared for the school year this summer, from practicing ukulele, to reading educational texts, to organizing with a wonderful productivity tool!
In this episode, Aileen gives three ideas for developing professionally this summer, from specific podcast episodes to her free 5-day challenge!
In this episode, Aileen and Katie discuss a typical day as a music teacher, from schedule specifics, to lesson ideas for each grade level, to working with small groups and centers. Visit www.mrsmiraclesmusicroom.com for more music education ideas.
In this episode, Aileen and Katie present several songs for low la, as well as thoughts about when in the sequence to teach low la, how to transfer students' knowledge, and more! Check out www.mrsmiraclesmusicroom.com for more music education tips.
In this episode, Aileen talks with Amy Abbott about the 2018 OAKE Conference in Oklahoma City. Aileen and Amy discuss sessions they attended, sessions they presented, ideas they are excited to try out, and what to expect from a national conference.
In this episode, Aileen discusses ways to prepare for the end of the school year in the music room, from planning your curriculum to planning for next year's classroom theme.
In this episode, Aileen and Katie will dive into interview preparation and strategies for the music teacher. They will discuss sample interview questions, things to consider, what to bring, and more!
In this episode, Aileen and Katie talk about curriculum accountability: how to get started, how to be accountable, why be accountable, and how to keep track of curriculum. The show notes include links to free documents; check it out at www.mrsmiraclesmusicroom.com.
In this episode, we'll explore traveling as a music teacher: the struggles, the successes, and suggestions!
In this episode, we'll explore planning for next year's musical programs, including scheduling, creating, checklists, and more!
In this episode, we'll explore the power of professional development, and how conferences--and specifically, music education conferences-- can offer content, networking opportunities, a-ha moments, and more!
In this episode, we'll explore the song "Apple Tree," and several activities and ideas to use with the song. Lesson ideas, instrumental accompaniment, literacy ideas, and more will be discussed for Kindergarten-Second Grade.
Looking for ideas for using learning centers in your music classroom? This podcast includes the why, what, and how of incorporating centers in your music lessons to assess, provide intervention, and help students master specific concepts!
In this episode, we'll explore the Kodaly and Orff philosophies with an interview with music educator Andrew Ellingsen. Strengths of both philosophies will be discussed, and we'll reflect on creativity and learning styles in today's music classroom.
In this episode, we'll explore the Orff philosophy with an interview with music educator David Row. Lesson ideas, Orff-inspired resources, and thoughts about integrating Orff Schulwerk with current educational initiatives will be discussed.
In this episode, we'll explore the Kodaly philosophy with an interview with music educator Karla Cherwinski. Lesson format, Kodaly-inspired resources, and thoughts about integrating Kodaly with current educational initiatives will be discussed.
This episode comes with many tips for being productive! The tips could help any music teacher, or any educator, looking to be more productive and accomplish their New Year's resolutions. The tips include helpful websites, productivity apps, and more!